Steak and Kidney Pudding

This is one of the oldest puddings, the pride and joy of British classic cooking and something that totally bewilders the French who muddle it with ‘le Christmas pudding’. It is traditionally served in its basin, tied round with a white napkin. Accompanied by boiled potatoes, Brussels sprouts and a jug of hot water with which to thin down the rich thick gravy in the pudding after the pastry has been cut, it is an unrivalled feast.

Steak and oyster pudding is a classic version, incor