Date Citrus Spotted Dick

Method

Step one
Put a steamer on or half fill a saucepan with water and bring to the boil.

Step two
In a mixing bowl, thoroughly stir together the breadcrumbs, flour, Atora Suet, sugar, dates and lemon rind.

Step three
Spoon in the lemon juice and enough milk to make a soft, slightly sticky dough. Knead gently on a lightly floured surface.

Step four
Shape the mixture into an oblong roll, about 15 cm (6 inch) long.

Step five
Place the dough into a double layer of greased greaseproof paper making a 5 cm (2 inch ) pleat across the centre, allowing for the pudding to rise during cooking. Tie the ends with string like a ‘Christmas cracker’. Over wrap the greaseproof paper with foil to repel any water.

Step six
Steam for about 1 ½ hours or until cooked through. Dredge liberally with sugar and sprinkle over lemon zest.

Variation
Replace dates with same quantity of mixed dried fruit.