novel ideas

LADY CATHERINE DE BOURGH’S CAR AWAY AND RAISIN BREAKFAST BREAD

While for most ordinary men and women in the Georgian period breakfast was often a hearty affair, eaten early to get the working day off to a good start, for the gentry breakfast was typically a much lighter and certainly more leisurely affair, taken as late as 10 or 11 o’clock.

Fruited and spiced breads were a popular addition to the breakfast tables of the wealthy. This recipe would be good enough to serve at Rosings Park, the luxurious home of Mr Darcy’s pompous, arrogant aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh from Pride and Prejudice – who is one of the most memorable antagonists in Jane Austen’s novels.

One for the grown-ups as it contains beer, so isn’t suitable for children, this deliciously moist loaf has a hint of liquorice from the caraway seeds. It is perfect sliced and buttered, then served with coffee or tea for a weekend brunch.

SERVES 10

• 165g raisins• 300ml beer• 135g dark brown sugar• 1 tsp caraway seeds• 1 egg, beaten• 200g self-raising flour• 200g wholemeal flour• 1 tsp baking powder