The combination of breadcrumbs soaked in a custard and then baked appears in many recipes throughout Britain. Why this recipe is attributed to Deptford, which was Henry VIII’s first naval dockyard, is not clear. There is, however, a sailors’ song about ‘Pretty Polly of Deptford’ which refers to her talent for sewing and making puddings and pies. Perhaps this was one of the puddings she excelled in making.
Tip: To make breadcrumbs, the best way is to place chunks of bread into a blender and whizz. You may need to turn the blender off occasionally and push the bread pieces down with a wooden spoon.
