Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding Recipe

Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding is a modern twist on the classic British dessert, made with a rich blend of dried fruits, spices, and traditional alcohol, but with the unique personal touches that make it distinctly Nigel Slater. Known for his love of simple, homey dishes, Slater’s recipe emphasizes a balance of deep, comforting flavors. His version of the Christmas pudding is known for being intensely flavorful, beautifully spiced, and moist, with a slightly lighter texture than some traditional versions.

Unlike many classic Christmas puddings, which are dense and sometimes overly heavy, Nigel’s recipe is designed to offer a lighter yet still rich dessert that pairs perfectly with the festive atmosphere. His use of ingredients like brandy, citrus zest, and a medley of spices adds complexity to the pudding, giving it both sweetness and a fragrant warmth. When steamed, the pudding retains moisture, and as it matures, the flavors meld together, creating a wonderful depth of taste that will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy a slice.

Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are key to creating that rich, spiced flavor that the pudding is known for:

• Dried fruits: You’ll need a mixture of currants, raisins, sultanas, and dried cranberries or cherries for a variety of textures and sweetness.
• Suet: This is traditional in Christmas puddings and helps create the light, crumbly texture. You can use beef suet or a vegetarian version.
• Flour: Plain flour provides the structure for the pudding.
• Breadcrumbs: Fresh white breadcrumbs add to the fluffiness of the pudding.
• Sugar: Brown sugar gives a slight caramel note, adding depth to the flavor.
• Spices: Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves contribute to the warming, festive aroma.
• Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and help the pudding hold its shape once cooked.
• Citrus zest: A combination of orange and lemon zest brightens up the richness of the dried fruits and spices.
• Alcohol: Traditionally, Christmas pudding includes some form of alcohol such as brandy, dark rum, or stout. The alcohol not only helps preserve the pudding but also infuses it with a deep flavor.
• Baking soda: A small amount to help lighten the texture of the pudding.

Equipment Needed

To create a perfect Nigel Slater Christmas pudding, the following equipment is essential:

• Large mixing bowl: To combine the ingredients together.
• Pudding basin: A 1.2-liter (2-pint) pudding basin is the ideal size for this recipe. It needs to be large enough to accommodate the pudding mixture and allow it to expand during steaming.
• Greaseproof paper or foil: This is used to cover the top of the pudding basin and help seal in moisture.
• String: To tie the parchment paper or foil securely over the basin.
• Steamer or large pot: A large, deep saucepan with a lid or a dedicated steamer is necessary for steaming the pudding.
• Aluminum foil: To wrap over the top of the pudding basin if using foil instead of parchment paper.
• Fork or skewer: To test the pudding for doneness before removing it from the steamer.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding

1. Prepare the dry ingredients: Start by sifting the flour, baking soda, and all the spices into a large mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs and brown sugar. Stir well to combine the dry ingredients.
2. Add the suet and dried fruit: Stir in the suet, making sure it is evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients. Then, add your dried fruit mixture-currants, raisins, sultanas, and cranberries-and mix everything together.
3. Add the wet ingredients: Beat the eggs and add them to the mixture along with the grated citrus zest. Pour in the alcohol (brandy or dark rum works wonderfully), and stir to combine everything. The mixture should have a slightly thick consistency.
4. Prepare the pudding basin: Grease the inside of a pudding basin with butter, then spoon the pudding mixture into the basin, pressing it down gently to remove any air pockets. Leave a small gap at the top of the basin for expansion during steaming.
5. Cover the pudding: Cut a circle of greaseproof paper and place it over the top of the pudding mixture. Cover with a sheet of aluminum foil, and secure the paper and foil in place with string.
6. Steam the pudding: Fill a large pot with water, making sure the water level is just below the rim of the pudding basin. Bring the water to a gentle simmer and place the pudding basin inside. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the pudding for 4 to 5 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the water doesn’t evaporate, adding more if necessary.
7. Let it cool: Once the pudding is done, remove it from the steamer and let it cool completely. You can then wrap it in more greaseproof paper and foil, and store it in a cool, dark place for several weeks, allowing the flavors to mature.
8. Reheat before serving: When you’re ready to serve, steam the pudding for another 1 to 2 hours until heated through.
9. Serve: Turn the pudding out onto a plate, and serve it with traditional accompaniments like brandy butter, custard, or cream. You can also flambé it with brandy for a dramatic, festive touch.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Make ahead: Like most Christmas puddings, Nigel Slater’s version benefits from being made ahead of time. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, so make it at least a few weeks before Christmas, if possible.
2. Vegetarian suet option: If you want a vegetarian or vegan version of this pudding, look for vegetarian suet, which is typically made from palm oil.
3. Add a twist: Feel free to get creative with the fruits. Adding diced apples or pears can bring a fresh contrast to the richness of the other dried fruits.
4. Don’t skimp on the alcohol: The alcohol not only preserves the pudding, but it also deepens the flavor. If you’re not keen on using alcohol, you can substitute it with fruit juice (like apple or orange), but the flavor will be less intense.
5. Steaming: Make sure the water in your steamer or pot doesn’t come into direct contact with the pudding. This can cause it to become too soggy. Keep an eye on the water level and top it up if needed.
6. Traditional garnishes: When serving, a sprig of holly on top of the pudding not only looks festive but is a classic touch. For added flair, you can drizzle over some warm brandy butter or custard.

Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding is the perfect balance between traditional and modern. It encapsulates the heart of Christmas with its comforting blend of spices, fruits, and alcohol, while still offering a lighter, more contemporary texture. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply making a memorable dessert for your family, this recipe will bring both warmth and joy to your table.

Don’t forget the crucial element of patience-the longer the pudding sits, the better it tastes!

This rich and flavorful pudding is not just about a dessert, but about creating cherished memories, much like Christmas itself.

Simple Twists On Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding Recipe

Nigel Slater’s Christmas pudding is beloved for its richness, depth of flavor, and comforting tradition. While the recipe itself is already quite delicious, there are a few simple twists you can add to make it your own. Here are some fun and creative variations to elevate this classic dessert:

1. Add a Hint of Spice: Traditional Christmas pudding includes spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, but you can take it a step further by adding a pinch of ground ginger, allspice, or cloves. These warming spices will bring an extra layer of depth to the pudding.
2. Swap for Alternative Dried Fruits: While the classic mix includes raisins, currants, and sultanas, you can swap in different dried fruits for a unique twist. Dried apricots, cranberries, or even cherries bring a pop of color and a tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich, heavy pudding.
3. Use Dark Chocolate and Orange: If you’re looking to modernize the classic flavor profile, consider adding finely chopped dark chocolate and a splash of orange zest to the mix. The chocolate adds a luxurious richness, while the orange zest brings a fresh, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the pudding.
4. Incorporate Aged Spirits: While most recipes call for brandy or rum, why not experiment with an aged rum or bourbon? These spirits add complexity and a different depth of flavor, giving your Christmas pudding a slightly smoky, caramelized note.
5. Vegan-Friendly Christmas Pudding: For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, you can make a vegan version of this pudding. Swap the eggs for a flaxseed mixture or use aquafaba (the water from canned chickpeas) to replace the eggs. For the butter, coconut oil or vegan margarine will work beautifully. With these changes, the pudding remains just as rich and flavorful.
6. Infuse the Pudding with Tea: For a more subtle flavor twist, try infusing your dried fruit mixture with a strong black tea such as Earl Grey or Assam. The tea will lend a fragrant and earthy depth to the pudding without overwhelming the traditional flavors.
7. Drizzle with a Spiced Syrup: Rather than serving your pudding with traditional custard or cream, you could create a spiced syrup to drizzle over it. A syrup made with maple syrup, a dash of cinnamon, and vanilla extract adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.

These twists can breathe new life into an age-old tradition while maintaining the heart of Nigel Slater’s comforting Christmas pudding.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Leftover Christmas pudding is a delightful treat that can last for days (or even longer), so it’s important to store it correctly to preserve its moist, rich flavor. Here’s how to ensure that your leftovers stay fresh and delicious:

1. Cool Completely Before Storing: Before storing your leftover Christmas pudding, ensure it has cooled completely. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can lead to spoilage.
2. Wrap it Well: If you plan on storing your Christmas pudding for more than a day or two, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper. This helps to seal in the moisture, keeping it fresh. For added protection, you can also place it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
3. Refrigeration: You can keep your leftover Christmas pudding in the fridge for up to a week. The pudding will continue to age and develop even more flavor in the fridge, making it a great choice to enjoy after the big day.
4. Freezing Leftovers: If you’ve got an abundance of pudding left over, you can freeze it for up to three months. Slice the pudding into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly, and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to eat it, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge or reheat it in the microwave or steam it.
5. Reheating: To reheat your Christmas pudding, the traditional method is to steam it. If you froze individual slices, simply steam them for about 10-15 minutes until piping hot. If it’s been refrigerated, you can microwave the slices for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can place the entire pudding back into a steamer for around 30 minutes, ensuring it is steaming hot before serving.

Properly stored, your Christmas pudding can be enjoyed for days to come, and the flavors may even improve as it sits. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

What To Eat With Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding?

While Christmas pudding is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience and complement its rich, dense texture. Here are a few classic and creative options to serve alongside Nigel Slater’s Christmas pudding:

1. Brandy Butter: This is the traditional pairing for Christmas pudding. Brandy butter is made by combining softened butter, powdered sugar, and brandy. The rich, boozy butteriness enhances the pudding’s sweetness and richness, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
2. Custard: Another traditional companion to Christmas pudding is a warm, creamy custard. You can opt for the classic vanilla custard or make a more indulgent version using double cream. The smooth, velvety texture contrasts wonderfully with the dense, fruity pudding.
3. Whipped Cream: For a lighter accompaniment, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can be the perfect foil to the pudding’s richness. You can also infuse the cream with a bit of vanilla or a splash of liqueur like amaretto or Grand Marnier for added flavor.
4. Clotted Cream: For a truly indulgent treat, serve your Christmas pudding with clotted cream. Its thick, buttery consistency and slightly tangy flavor make it an irresistible pairing for the spiced fruitiness of the pudding.
5. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or even a spiced ice cream like cinnamon or ginger can add a refreshing, cool contrast to the warmth of the Christmas pudding. The creaminess of the ice cream also balances out the richness of the pudding.
6. Spiced Syrups: For a non-dairy option, consider drizzling a spiced syrup over your Christmas pudding. Maple syrup, or even a homemade spiced syrup made with cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, can add an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
7. Festive Fruits: Fresh fruit can add a refreshing contrast to the heavy richness of the pudding. Citrus slices, particularly orange segments, work wonderfully to cut through the richness. A few fresh berries-such as raspberries or blackberries-can provide a tart and slightly sweet counterpoint to the dessert.
8. Cheese: If you want to serve something a little unexpected, you could pair your Christmas pudding with a small wedge of strong cheese. A mature cheddar or a tangy Stilton can be a surprising but delightful pairing that balances the sweetness of the pudding with a savory bite.

Conclusion

Nigel Slater’s Christmas pudding is already a rich, flavorful treat that embodies the essence of Christmas. By adding a few simple twists to the recipe, you can make it your own while still honoring the traditions that make this dessert so beloved. Whether you choose to experiment with different fruits, spices, or spirits, there’s plenty of room for creativity.

Storing your leftover Christmas pudding properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious dessert for days to come, and reheating it correctly brings back that fresh-from-the-steamer taste. The right accompaniments-whether classic brandy butter or whipped cream-will enhance the pudding and make your festive feast even more memorable.

So, next time you prepare or enjoy Nigel Slater’s Christmas pudding, don’t hesitate to add a personal touch or savor the leftovers in new ways. It’s a dish that’s meant to be enjoyed and celebrated, long after the holiday season has passed.

FAQs

What Makes Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding Recipe Different From Traditional Ones?

Nigel Slater’s Christmas pudding stands out for its simplicity and elegance. Unlike many traditional recipes that can be quite dense and heavily spiced, Slater’s version focuses on a lighter, fruit-forward flavor, with a blend of dried fruits, citrus zest, and a hint of alcohol, typically brandy or dark rum. The use of less suet and a variety of fruits like dates, prunes, and raisins helps create a more modern and less rich texture, making it more accessible for those who want a less overpowering pudding.

Can I Make Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding In Advance?

Yes, Nigel Slater’s Christmas pudding can and should be made in advance. In fact, it benefits from aging for a few weeks as this allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

You can prepare the pudding and steam it, then store it in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to serve. Just ensure you re-steam it for about 2 hours before serving to heat it through, and it will taste even better after maturing.

What Are Some Variations I Can Try With Nigel Slater’s Christmas Pudding Recipe?

Nigel Slater’s Christmas pudding recipe is versatile, allowing for various substitutions based on personal taste. For instance, you could swap out the traditional dried fruits for others like apricots, cherries, or figs.

You can also experiment with different types of alcohol, such as whiskey or dark rum, if you prefer a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of suet or replace it with butter or a plant-based alternative. Additionally, adding a small amount of spices like cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg can give the pudding a more traditional, warming kick.