How to steam, flame and serve your traditional pudding

1. Put the pudding (foil-covered in its basin if homemade) in a large lidded pan set on a trivet or upturned saucer.
2. Fill the pan with hot water to reach halfway up the sides of the basin/pudding. Cover and steam for 2 hours (top up with water if needed).
3. To serve, turn the pudding out onto a plate. Pour 75ml brandy into a ladle and carefully warm over a low heat (or warm in a small pan) for 1 minute or so. Light the brandy using a long match, then tip it over the pudding while still flaming and serve straightaway.

Want more? Have a go at one of our Christmas pudding recipes or browse through all our festive desserts.