Cookbook:Grotten Hans (Steamed Sweet Bread)

Grotten hans is a recipe that has been called a big dumpling but is basically a steamed pudding. The recipe was traditional in the German areas of Russia.

Batter

 * ¼ cup lard or oil
 * 1 tsp salt
 * 1 cup milk
 * 2 tsp baking powder
 * ½ cup white granulated sugar
 * 3 eggs, beaten
 * 3 cup flour

Raisin sauce

 * 2 cup raisins
 * 2 cup water
 * 1 tsp lemon juice
 * 1 scant tsp cinnamon
 * ½ cup white granulated sugar
 * Cornstarch

Procedure

 * 1) Cream together lard, sugar and salt. Mix in eggs.
 * 2) Combine flour and baking powder. Add this flour mixture to the lard mixture alternatively with the milk. Mix well.
 * 3) Pour batter into a well-greased 2-pound coffee can or other heat-safe mold. A piece parchment paper on the bottom of the can works well to prevent sticking. Cover with foil, and tie this on with a string.
 * 4) Set this tin into a large pot of hot water a few inches (~3) deep. Let steam for 2 hours.
 * 5) Mix raisins, water, lemon juice, cinnamon and sugar in a saucepan. Simmer for 1 hour. Mix in a bit or cornstarch, and cook until thickened.
 * 6) Unmold the grotten hans, and serve with the sauce.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * The old way to cook this involved boiling in a cloth: Dip a towel in hot water, then cold water, then sprinkle with flour. Pour dumpling batter onto towel and tie up. Drop into boiling water and cook for 2 hours.
 * Cherry sauce is nice also.