If you want a truly great xmas pudding then you will have to go a long way to beat this receipe. Using a basin that holds nine cups - all cups are breakfast cups - serves 12 Overnight soak 13 rounded tablespoons of Sago in three cups of milk.

Next day grate 3 cupfuls of breadcrumbs, beat three eggs, melt 4 ounces of butter, measure 2 cups of sultanas and a cup of raisin, and one and half cups of sugar. Quarter pound of peel, some chopped almonds or walnuts, 1 heaped teaspoon of allspice or cinnamon and 3 teaspoons of bi-carbonate of soda.

Line the greased basin with two buttered covers of paper then fill the basin to the top as it only swells and won't run over. Cover with greased paper. Tuck around alluminium foil and steam for 5 hours. Next day simply warm up for half an hour.

Further advice:- don't use store brought breadcrumbs or it will turn out dry, make your own with white bread using an electric grater on a electric whiz or similar. Place fruit or jam in the bottom of the dish before adding mix, traditionally plum, but can be whatever is your favourite. Served with hot custard. Yum!

This page is dedicated to Great Granny LAING - Jessie Ida LAING who had this and hundreds of more great receipes. A true pioneer and lady who knew how to feed a tribe in the style of kings. A reminder of true culture that is so missing today.