Olivia Carter
When it comes to storing our favourite desserts, it’s important to know how long they will last in the freezer. One such dessert that many people love is clootie dumpling. But how long does this traditional Scottish treat keep in the freezer?
Clootie dumpling is a rich and indulgent dessert made with suet, flour, sugar, and a variety of spices and dried fruits. It gets its unique name from the cloth, or “cloot,” that it is traditionally cooked in. This cloth gives the dumpling its distinctive shape and texture.
If you have made a large batch of clootie dumpling and want to store some for later, you’ll be happy to know that it can be frozen. Freezing clootie dumpling is a great way to keep it fresh and enjoy it at a later date. But how long can you keep it frozen before it’s no longer good?
The general consensus among chefs and experts is that clootie dumpling can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
It’s important to properly store the dumpling to ensure it stays fresh and delicious. Wrap it tightly in a layer of plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and protect it from absorbing any odours. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for extra protection.
What Is Clootie Dumpling?
Clootie Dumpling is a traditional Scottish dessert that is enjoyed during special occasions like Christmas and Hogmanay (Scottish New Year). It is a rich and comforting pudding made with a mixture of flour, sugar, breadcrumbs, suet, dried fruit, and spices.
The name “clootie” comes from the word “cloot,” which means cloth. This is because the dumpling is traditionally cooked by boiling it in a cloot (cloth) instead of in a pudding basin. The cloth is heavily dusted with flour before the mixture is wrapped in it and tied with string.
The dumpling is then boiled for several hours, which allows the flavors and spices to infuse and develop. Once cooked, the cloth is carefully unwrapped, and the dumpling is left to cool and set. It has a dense, moist, and slightly sticky texture.
Ingredients:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Breadcrumbs
- Suet
- Dried fruit (like raisins, currants, and sultanas)
- Spices (like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice)
Serving:
Clootie Dumpling is traditionally served sliced, with a generous dollop of custard, cream, or ice cream. Some people also enjoy eating it with a cup of tea or a drizzle of honey or syrup.
| Clootie Dumpling | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Scotland |
| Texture | Dense, moist, and slightly sticky |
| Serving Temperature | Warm or cold |
| Best Served | During special occasions |
Ingredients and Preparation
The traditional recipe for Clootie Dumpling calls for the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces of self-rising flour
- 4 ounces of vegetable suet
- 4 ounces of breadcrumbs
- 4 ounces of brown sugar
- 2 ounces of chopped almonds
- 2 ounces of mixed peel
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 pint of milk
- 1/4 pint of stout or beer
To prepare the Clootie Dumpling, follow these steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, vegetable suet, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, chopped almonds, mixed peel, and the ground spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves).
- In a separate bowl, mix the beaten eggs, milk, and stout or beer together.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir well to combine. The resulting mixture should have a fairly stiff consistency.
- Next, take a clean tea towel (or “cloot,” as it is traditionally called) and scald it with boiling water. Dust the tea towel with flour to prevent sticking.
- Spoon the mixture onto the center of the tea towel and gather up the corners to form a tight bundle. Secure the bundle with kitchen string, leaving room for the dumpling to expand.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully lower the dumpling into the water, keeping it suspended with a wooden spoon or other utensil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow the dumpling to cook for approximately 2 and a half to 3 hours, ensuring that the water does not boil vigorously.
- Once cooked, remove the dumpling from the water and carefully remove the tea towel. Allow the dumpling to cool before storing in an airtight container or wrapping in foil.
The Clootie Dumpling can be enjoyed fresh or it can be frozen for later use. To freeze, slice the dumpling into individual portions and wrap each portion tightly in cling film or aluminum foil before placing in the freezer. Frozen Clootie Dumpling can be kept for up to 3 months.
Cooking and Serving
- When you’re ready to cook the clootie dumpling, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- To cook the dumpling, prepare a large pot of boiling water.
- Carefully remove the thawed dumpling from the packaging and place it in the boiling water.
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot.
- Cook the dumpling for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, ensuring it is fully cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the dumpling from the water and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
- To serve the clootie dumpling, cut it into thick slices and serve warm.
- You can enjoy the dumpling on its own or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or custard.
- Leftover dumpling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat the clootie dumpling, simply wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Storing Clootie Dumpling
Properly storing your clootie dumpling is essential for maintaining its freshness and taste. Here are some tips for storing your clootie dumpling:
- Allow the clootie dumpling to cool completely before storing it.
- Wrap the cooled clootie dumpling tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in.
- If you have a large clootie dumpling, you can divide it into smaller portions for easier storage.
- Place the wrapped clootie dumpling in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date of freezing.
- Store the clootie dumpling in the freezer, where it can be kept for up to 3 months.
When you are ready to enjoy your stored clootie dumpling, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it in the microwave or oven.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious taste of clootie dumpling even after it has been frozen.
How Long Can Clootie Dumpling Be Kept In the Freezer?
Freezing clootie dumpling is a great way to extend its shelf life and enjoy it for longer periods. Clootie dumpling can be kept in the freezer for up to three months, maintaining its quality and taste when properly stored.
To ensure the best results when freezing clootie dumpling, follow these steps:
1. Allow the Dumpling to Cool
After cooking the clootie dumpling, let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer. This helps prevent condensation from forming and damaging the texture of the dumpling.
2. Wrap it Properly
Before freezing, wrap the cooled clootie dumpling tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain its moisture and prevents freezer burn.
3. Label and Date
It’s important to label the wrapped clootie dumpling with the current date. This way, you can easily keep track of how long it has been stored in the freezer and avoid consuming it past its optimal quality.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen clootie dumpling, remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can enjoy it cold or gently reheat it in the microwave or oven.
Note: While frozen clootie dumpling can be stored for up to three months, it is best to consume it within the first month for the best taste and texture.
Remember to always use proper food safety practices when handling and storing any type of food.
Thawing and Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Clootie Dumpling, it’s important to thaw it properly to preserve its texture and flavor. Here are a few steps to follow:
Thawing in the Refrigerator
The best way to thaw your Clootie Dumpling is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the quality of the dumpling while minimizing the risk of bacterial growth.
Simply remove the wrapped dumpling from the freezer and transfer it to a plate or a shallow dish. Cover the dumpling with cling film or place it in an airtight container to prevent any moisture from getting in.
Allow the dumpling to thaw in the refrigerator for about 12-24 hours, depending on its size. Once completely thawed, you can proceed to reheat it for serving.
Thawing at Room Temperature
If you’re short on time, you can opt for a quicker thawing method at room temperature. However, this method should only be used when you plan to consume the Clootie Dumpling immediately after thawing.
To thaw the dumpling at room temperature, remove it from the freezer and leave it on the kitchen counter. Make sure it’s still tightly wrapped to prevent any contamination.
Depending on the size and thickness of the dumpling, it might take around 4-6 hours to thaw completely. Once thawed, heat it thoroughly before serving.
Reheating
Once your Clootie Dumpling is thawed, it’s time to reheat it before serving. This step ensures that the dumpling is piping hot and safe to eat. There are a few methods you can use to reheat your thawed dumpling:
1. Steaming: Place the dumpling on a steaming rack or a colander inside a large pot. Fill the pot with water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the dumpling. Cover the pot and steam the dumpling over medium heat for about 1-2 hours until it’s heated through.
2. Microwaving: If you’re short on time, you can use a microwave to reheat slices of the dumpling. Place the desired amount of slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness after each interval.
3. Oven: Preheat your oven to around 180°C (350°F). Wrap the thawed dumpling in foil to prevent it from drying out, and place it on a baking tray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the center is heated through. Remove from the oven, unwrap, and serve.
Whichever method you choose, make sure to check the internal temperature of your reheated dumpling with a food thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 75°C (165°F) to guarantee its safety.
Once reheated, your Clootie Dumpling is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with your favorite accompaniments, such as custard or ice cream, for a truly delightful treat.
FAQ
Can I freeze clootie dumpling?
Yes, you can freeze clootie dumpling. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How long can I keep clootie dumpling in the freezer?
You can keep clootie dumpling in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What is the best way to store clootie dumpling in the freezer?
The best way to store clootie dumpling in the freezer is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain its quality.
Can I thaw frozen clootie dumpling in the microwave?
Yes, you can thaw frozen clootie dumpling in the microwave. Simply place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on the defrost setting for a few minutes. However, for the best texture, it is recommended to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
