Nonconformist Christmas Pudding Basin

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Nigella's Nonconformist Christmas Pudding (from Feast) is similar to a traditional Christmas Pudding but has a more eclectic mixture of dried fruits. It is also slightly lighter in texture than the Ultimate Christmas Pudding. The recipe suggests using a 2.5 litre (2 1/2 quart) pudding basin, or larger. The pudding will rise a little so there is a risk that in a smaller basin the pudding may not have enough room to expand.

If you can't get the correct size with a lid you could try a basin without a lid (pyrex, porcelain or plastic) in a larger size. Put a circle of baking parchment (parchment paper) on the surface of the pudding batter then wrap the pudding basin very tightly with a double layer of clingfilm (plastic wrap) and a double layer of foil (overwrap so that the wrapping goes over the top and inder the bottom of the basin). After the initial steaming let the pudding cool completely then unwrap it, replace the baking parchment with a fresh piece and wrap the pudding again with fresh clingfilm and foil, ready for steaming on Christmas day. Store the pudding in a cool, dry place until Christmas day.