A few days ago, Carly Talbot of gutenfreeb.com asked if anyone had a recipe for a gluten free version of a malt loaf. A malt loaf uses barley malt and barley flour, both of which are not gluten free. To get the required squidgy, stogdgy texture and the malty flavour some improvising would be required. I was keen to have a go.
If you are into malt loaf, then you will probably recognise the brand Soreen. This is a quintessential English/British brand, makers of the original malt loaf. Although I have seen it on the shelves with it's distinctive packaging, I admit, I have never actaully tried it. Apparently you slice off a thick wedge and slather it with butter and wash it down with a strong cup of tea. A very British experience and a bit of an acquired taste.
Well I tried it and I like the deep treacly flavour and the saltiness that comes from the malt. The texture is a bit rubbery and reminds me of a bread that's gone badly wrong. So whilst not a traditional copy of the original, my version has the deep caramely overtones and an earthiness similar to the original, but the texture is more like a moist tea bread.