Nigella Tea Loaf

Delve into the comforting warmth of a Nigella Tea Loaf, a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your afternoon tea. This recipe, celebrated for its simplicity and rich flavor, offers a blend of dried fruits soaked in tea, brought to life by Nigella Lawson's culinary expertise.

Brief Description of the Recipe

The Nigella Tea Loaf stands out for its moist, dense texture and the harmonious blend of sweetness from dried fruits and the depth of black tea. It's a recipe that not only serves as a testament to traditional baking but also showcases the versatility of tea as a key ingredient in creating delectable desserts.

Cultural or Historical Context

Tea loaf, a quintessential British treat, finds its roots in the afternoon tea tradition, offering a perfect slice of comfort alongside a cup of tea. Nigella Lawson, a renowned British cook and writer, brings her own twist to this classic, making it an accessible recipe for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients List for the Nigella Tea Loaf

• Cold black tea: 1 cup (approximately 240ml)
• Mixed dried fruit: 225g
• Self-rising flour: 225g
• Superfine sugar: 115g
• 1 large beaten egg
• Orange marmalade: 2 tablespoons

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by soaking the mixed dried fruits in cold black tea, ideally overnight, to allow the fruits to swell.
2. Preheat your oven and prepare a loaf tin by greasing it.
3. Mix the self-rising flour, superfine sugar, beaten egg, and orange marmalade in a bowl.
4. Combine this mixture with the soaked fruits and any remaining tea, then transfer into the loaf tin.
5. Bake until golden and cooked through, then allow to cool slightly before serving.

Storage and Reheating

The Nigella Tea Loaf keeps well when stored in an airtight container, retaining its moisture and flavors. If you wish to refresh the loaf before serving, a brief warming in the oven or microwave will enhance its taste and texture.

Nutritional Information

This tea loaf offers a balance of carbohydrates and sugars, providing energy and satisfaction. The dried fruits contribute fiber and vitamins, making it a somewhat nutritious option for a sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use any type of black tea? Yes, any variety will work, though some may offer a deeper flavor than others.
• How long does the tea loaf last? Properly stored, it can last for several days, even improving in flavor.
• Can I add other types of dried fruits? Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorites.

This delightful Nigella Tea Loaf recipe is perfect for those seeking a taste of British baking tradition with a modern twist. Enjoy it as part of your afternoon tea ritual, or share it with friends and family as a testament to your baking prowess​​​​​​.