Steamed Plum Pudding

Yield:

Instructions

Butter a 1-quart mold or 28-ounce aluminum can and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, and scalded milk. Let cool slightly.

Add the sugar, raisins, figs, currants, and citron. Fold a few times with a rubber spatula to combine. Add the cold shortening and continue folding, pressing lightly to smooth it into the batter, but not mixing it in completely.

Add the brandy or grape juice, then the spices and salt. Then gently fold in the beaten eggs until just combined.

Turn the batter into the prepared mold or can, tapping it lightly against the counter to disrupt any air pockets. Use string or twine to secure a circle of parchment over the top of the mold or can, leaving about 2 inches of overhang around the rim. Once the parchment is secure, wrap the top tightly in aluminum foil and secure with additional string.

Carefully set the mold onto a rack or trivet in a deep stockpot of simmering water. The water should come
up to around one-third the height of the sides of the mold. Cover the pot and steam 6 hours. Be sure to check the water level periodically and add more if necessary.

After 6 hours, transfer the mold to a rack and let cool to room temperature. Remove the parchment. You may see some liquid around the sides of the pudding, but don’t worry: As the pudding cools, it will be absorbed. Once the pudding has cooled, cover it tightly with fresh aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator.

When ready to serve, bring the pudding to room temperature and warm the mold slightly by returning it to a bath of simmering water until the pudding is loose enough to turn onto a plate. Serve warm, sliced, topped with classic Foamy Sauce (recipe below).

Instructions

Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy; then add in the beaten egg and brandy (or vanilla). Transfer to the top of a double boiler and heat over simmering water, stirring continuously, until warm and thickened. Spoon over sliced pudding.