How to Make Homemade Bread Pudding Cape Verde Style

Don't throw away day old bread, well, unless it is turning green and moldy. You can make a delicious treat with stale bread that even kids will like. Once you know how to make homemade bread pudding you might find yourself making it time and time again.

What is bread pudding? Ah, it is 'the poor man's pudding' which dates back to the 13^th century. Have you ever heard someone say, waste not want not, a phrase used often many years ago. Probably not if you were born in the last few decades because some old sayings have faded away with the times, but this one still stands true for old timers and the frugal minded.

Bread pudding recipes began as a creative way to make use of stale bread. Today food is wasted on a daily basis even though there are millions that go to sleep hungry every night. The price of a loaf of bread has risen over the years, yet, we buy it then throw it away as if it has no value.

In 1933, which was the worst year of the depression, a loaf of bread cost just 7 cents. Do you know what the cost of a loaf of bread was in May of 2009? The price was $2.79! (US)

Does bread have monetary value? Well, it is made with flour, which comes from milled wheat, corn, rice, and other crops, and these crops have value world-wide so it is safe to say that a simple loaf of bread has great monetary value. Thus, buying bread then throwing it away because it is stale is the same as throwing away your hard earned money. Making bread pudding is no longer the poor man's puddingit is a wise man's treat!

What is bread pudding made with? Years ago stale bread was soaked in water or milk, then sugar, spices, and butter were added and it was baked. Today, a basic bread pudding is made with cubed bread that is covered with custard mixed with spices and baked. A much more modern recipe might have fruit and other flavorings added, it is baked and may be served with a bourbon sauce or caramel sauce or other creations that make it a wonderful desert.

Here is a simple, old fashioned Cape Verdean recipe that was passed on, it is easy to make using that stale bread sitting in the breadbox, and other stuff you probably already have in your pantry.

Try this recipe and you may never toss out stale bread again. Make the most of every penny you earn.

Ingredients needed to make home made bread pudding

Stale bread broken up into pieces
6 eggs
½ cup sugar
½ cup milk
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup raisins
butter

How to make home made bread pudding Cape Verde style

Butter a baking dish and set aside. In a large bowl mix all ingredients, except the raising, well. Toss in the stale bread and stir until all the bread is moist. Let sit for about 10 to 15 minutes so the bread becomes soaked. Add a little more milk if needed.

Mix in the raisins, then pour mixture into the buttered baking dish, but do not stir. In a 350^O oven bake uncovered for about 40 minutes. Bread pudding will rise and become golden brown. The house will be filled with a sweet aroma. Let cool or serve warm. Cover with whatever topping your heart and taste buds desire, and enjoy.

Tip: Bread pudding can be served cold with milk and eaten for breakfast like a cereal.

Recipe makes 8-10 servings Store leftovers covered with foil in the refrigerator.

Did you know that bread pudding is a Christmas holiday tradition for many cultures!