How to light a Christmas pudding

Points to remember

• You can swap the nuts for more dried fruit if you like.
• If you’ve made the pudding yourself, reheat by steaming for approximately 1 hour.
• For shop-bought Christmas puddings, you can reheat in the microwave or follow packet instructions.
• When steaming, cover the pudding with greaseproof paper and foil, so that no water gets in while reheating.
• Turn the pudding out by putting a plate on top and flipping it over.
• Before lighting the pudding, clear the surface area.
• Gently warm the brandy in a saucepan before lighting to achieve a bigger flame.
• Tip the brandy to the side of the pan before lighting.
• Point the pan or ladle away from you when pouring over the pudding.

TIPS