Thursday, May 7, 2009

The Prince of Paupers


As much as I’ve been enjoying this detour into the world of Comfort Foods in the Time of Chaos, I thought I should at least make a nod to the “mission” of this site.

Yes, that’s what still having an Annual Report in one’s head can wreak.

While IT, legal and financial translation jobs are still to be had in abundance, the absence of most other fields continues. What surprises me the most is the dearth of Marketing work. It seems to me that in this economy, companies would be doing all they could to attract a wider customer base. Going global, as it were. At the very least, having their websites translated. I’m forever amazed at how many European websites, in whatever field, are only in their native language.

Enough seriousness?

Perhaps it’s time for my Consummate Comfort Sweet:

Very Old School Bread Pudding

2 cups whole milk (or 2 cups half & half)
1/4 cup butter
2/3 cup sugar (white or brown, depending on taste preference)
3 eggs
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups bread, torn into small pieces [french bread and challah are great for this]
1/2 cup raisins (optional)

In medium saucepan, over medium heat, heat milk (or half & half) just until film forms over top. Combine butter and milk, stirring until butter is melted. Cool to lukewarm.
Combine sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer at medium speed for 1 minute. Slowly add milk mixture.
Place bread in a lightly greased 1 1/2 quart casserole.
Sprinkle with raisins if desired. Pour batter on top of bread.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 to 50 minutes or until set. Serve warm.

Now, this is perfect, goes well with a broken heart, tornado watch, foreclosure notice and such, but there are an infinite number of diverting additions and variations to complement other moods and slings and arrows:

Substitute diced apples or peaches, blueberries or almost any fruit for the raisins.
Especially helpful is the addition of a splash or two of Bourbon, Jameson or something similar [yes, some day, even Cognac].
Top with whipped cream or custard sauce [yes, the packet version, if in euroland, is just fine].

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