Flummery Recipe

A Spoonful of Nostalgia: Rediscovering Flummery

My grandmother, bless her heart, had a sweet tooth that rivaled any child’s. But unlike most of us, she favored the subtly sweet, comforting flavors of traditional English desserts. I remember her patiently stirring something on the stove, a gentle cloud of steam rising to fill her tiny kitchen with the scent of warm milk and lemon. Only later did I learn that she was making Flummery, a dish that always felt like a warm hug on a chilly afternoon. This recipe, inspired by her, brings back those cherished memories with every spoonful.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20-25 minutes (includes cooling and chilling)
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 1 pint souffle dish
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 ounces round grain rice, washed, soaked in cold water for 30 minutes and drained
• 10 fluid ounces milk
• 10 fluid ounces double cream
• 2 ounces sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Equipment Needed

• Double saucepan
• 1 pint souffle dish

Instructions

1. Begin by thoroughly washing 4 ounces of round grain rice. Then, soak it in cold water for 30 minutes. After soaking, ensure the rice is properly drained. This step is crucial as it helps remove excess starch, preventing a gummy texture in the final dish.
2. In the top part of a double saucepan, combine the drained rice with 10 fluid ounces of milk, 10 fluid ounces of double cream, 2 ounces of sugar, 1 tablespoon of grated lemon rind, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. The combination of these ingredients creates the foundation of Flummery’s unique flavor profile.
3. Half fill the bottom part of the double saucepan with boiling water. Place the top part over the bottom, ensuring the bottom of the top pan doesn’t directly touch the boiling water. This method of gentle cooking prevents scorching and ensures even heat distribution.
4. Cover the pan and cook the mixture over a moderately low heat. It’s important to maintain a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil.
5. Stir the mixture occasionally for 50-55 minutes, or until the rice is soft and has absorbed most of the liquid. The rice should be tender and the mixture should have thickened to a creamy consistency. Pay close attention during the last 15 minutes to prevent sticking.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully pour the mixture into a 1 pint souffle dish. The mixture will still be quite liquid at this stage, but it will set as it cools.
7. Allow the Flummery to cool to room temperature. This step is essential before refrigerating, as it prevents condensation from forming inside the refrigerator.
8. Once cooled, place the souffle dish in the refrigerator to chill for 3 hours or until set. The chilling process allows the Flummery to firm up and develop its characteristic texture.
9. Serve cold, with stiffly whipped cream or fruit compote.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, infuse the milk with a vanilla bean during the cooking process. Remove the bean before pouring the mixture into the souffle dish.
• If you don’t have a double saucepan, you can create a makeshift one by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
• To prevent a skin from forming on the surface while cooling, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the Flummery.
• For a more pronounced lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract along with the zest.
• If the Flummery isn’t setting properly, try adding a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to the mixture during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Flummery is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator. Its delicate flavor pairs perfectly with the richness of stiffly whipped cream or the tartness of a fruit compote. Consider serving it with a mixed berry compote, a dollop of homemade raspberry jam, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for added texture.

Leftover Flummery should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. While it’s not recommended to freeze Flummery, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	465.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	274 g	59%
Total Fat	30.5 g	46%
Saturated Fat	18.9 g	94%
Cholesterol	112.7 mg	37%
Sodium	66.2 mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	43.1 g	14%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	14.3 g	57%
Protein	6 g	11%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and double cream with coconut milk or other plant-based alternatives. The flavor will change slightly, but the texture should remain similar.
• Experiment with different flavorings. Try adding orange zest instead of lemon zest, or a pinch of cardamom for a warm, exotic twist.
• Use different types of rice. Arborio rice will create a creamier texture, while basmati rice will result in a slightly firmer Flummery.
• For a festive twist, add a tablespoon of dried cranberries or raisins to the mixture during cooking.
• Add a splash of sherry or brandy after cooking for an adult version.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked rice to speed up the cooking process?
A: While you can use pre-cooked rice, it might affect the texture. Freshly cooked rice will absorb the milk and cream more effectively, resulting in a creamier Flummery.

Q: How do I know when the Flummery is cooked properly?
A: The rice should be soft and have absorbed most of the liquid. The mixture will be thick and creamy, but still slightly runny. It will continue to set as it cools.

Q: Can I make Flummery ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it’s best to make Flummery a day in advance to allow it to chill completely and develop its flavors.

Q: My Flummery is too thick. What should I do?
A: If the Flummery is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out. Gently stir it in until you reach the desired consistency.

Q: Can I add fruit directly to the Flummery while cooking?
A: Yes, you can add soft fruits like berries or diced peaches during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Be careful not to overcook them, or they will become mushy.

Final Thoughts

This Flummery recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a connection to the past, a spoonful of comfort, and a reminder of simpler times. I encourage you to try it, experiment with your favorite flavors, and share it with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it with whipped cream, fruit compote, or simply on its own, I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought me over the years. Don’t hesitate to share your feedback and creations – I’d love to hear about your Flummery adventures!