Figgy Dowdy - Serves 4- 6

As suggest by Tony H, this pudding is a distant relative to Spotted Dick. Early in Naval history is was made from ships biscuits, dried fruit, pork fat and rum. I have updated the ingredients to those that you are likely to find in your local shops. Would be great with custard and cream.

Method

The evening before cooking place the dried fruit in a bowl with the rum and water and leave to soak overnight.

Place the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Strain the fruit and reserve the liquid. Mix the ingredients together well and gradually add the soaking liquid to form a stiff dough.

Form the dough into a large fat sausage shape and wrap in foil twisting the ends of the foil tightly together.

Take a steamer and fill with boiling water. Place the pudding in the steamer, cover with the lid and steam for two hours. Remember to check the water every 30 minutes to ensure it doesn't boil dry.

When cooked, unwrap carefully, cut into thick slices and serve with Custard or cream.