Suet
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The solid, dense fat that encloses beef kidneys is true suet, and a substance very hard to obtain in its whole form as butchers no longer receive suet intact, with the kidneys in the middle.
Suet is the correct, traditional shortening for steamed puddings – sweet and savoury – and also always used to be used to make mincemeat: remember to make some adjustments if you are entertaining vegetarians.
Serves 6Steak and Kidney Pudding with Steak and Kidney Gravy
The ultimate comfort food, this classic steamed pudding is always going to hit the spot. And it's surprisingly easy to make - then all you do is leave it to bubble away for a few hours.
Serves 6Individual Sussex Pond Puddings with Lemon Butter Sauce
A real classic, this dessert is wintry and wonderful: dip your spoon into the soft sponge to release a pool of lemony sauce at the bottom. What could be better?
Serves 4St Stephen's Pudding
This was sent to me by a television viewer in East Anglia and is a very good alternative if you prefer a less rich pudding for Christmas.
Serves 6Spiced Fig Pudding with Cumberland Rum Butter
Those who aren't too keen on a traditional rich, dark Christmas pud may find this lighter, spicier version more to their liking.
Serves 8-10Christmas Easy: The Delia Christmas Pudding
This, without apologies, is my Christmas pudding recipe that has been in print for 30 years, and the one I have used each year ever since. If I say it myself, it is unbeatable, especially when it has had a little time to mature. This recipe makes one
