Mary Berry Bara Brith

Name: Mary Berry's Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: Not specified
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 kg pork shoulder, boneless and skinless; 2 large onions, sliced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 200 ml barbecue sauce; 200 ml apple cider vinegar; 100 ml chicken stock

Discover the delight of Mary Berry's Bara Brith, a traditional Welsh tea bread that combines the richness of dried fruits with the unique taste of tea. This cake, known for its dense texture and sweet, fruity flavor, is perfect for afternoon tea or as a festive treat during the holiday season.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Mary Berry's Bara Brith recipe transforms simple ingredients into a moist, flavorful loaf that's both a bread and a cake. Soaked dried fruits in tea give it an extraordinary depth of flavor, making it a beloved classic in British baking.

Cultural or Historical Context

Bara Brith, meaning "speckled bread" in Welsh, has roots deep in Wales's culinary traditions. Initially made with leftover dough and dried fruits, it has evolved into a tea-infused fruitcake, celebrated for its rich, dense texture and is commonly enjoyed during tea time or festive occasions.

Ingredients List

Mixed dried fruits (375g and 500g variations found across recipes)
Light muscovado sugar or dark brown sugar (250g and 150g variations)
Strong black tea (300ml), preferably Assam for its rich flavor
Self-rising flour (275g to 300g)
A whole egg, beaten
Additional ingredients like candied orange peel, melted butter, orange marmalade, mixed spice, apricot jam, and milk may be included for enhanced flavor and texture.

Preparation Instructions

Begin by soaking the mixed dried fruits in brewed strong tea, often overnight, to allow them to plump up and absorb the tea's flavors.
Combine the soaked fruits with sugar, flour, and an egg into a batter. Some recipes also incorporate melted butter, orange marmalade, and spices to enrich the flavor.
Bake in a preheated oven at around 150°C to 160°C until the loaf is well-risen and firm to the touch, which typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
A glaze of apricot jam can be applied after baking to give the loaf a glossy finish.

Storage and Reheating

Bara Brith keeps well wrapped in an airtight container at room temperature for several days, allowing its flavors to mature. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Nutritional Information

A slice of Bara Brith offers a good source of energy, mainly from carbohydrates and sugars from the dried fruits. The exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any tea for Bara Brith? Strong black teas like Assam are recommended for their robust flavor.
How can I ensure my Bara Brith is moist? Ensuring not to overbake and wrapping the loaf while it's still slightly warm can help retain moisture.
Can nuts be added to the recipe? Yes, nuts like walnuts or almonds can be added for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts or Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Mary Berry's Bara Brith sliced with a spread of butter or alongside a cup of tea. Its rich, fruity flavor and moist texture make it a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.

For a detailed exploration of Mary Berry's Bara Brith recipes, including variations in ingredients and additional tips for making the perfect loaf, visit the original recipe pages on FoodieWish, Rachel's Recipe Pantry, and Simple Home Cooked Recipes.