Spotted Dick

Directions

1. 1
   Sift the flour into a large bowl, then stir in the breadcrumbs, shortening, sugar, dried fruit and lemon zest. Add milk and mix together into a soft dough.
2. 2
   Turn the dough out on to a floured surface. Knead until just smooth and then form the dough into a neat roll about 6-inches long.
3. 3
   Lay a large sheet of parchment on top of a sheet of foil. Make a pleat along the length of the paper and foil. Place the dough on the parchment, along the pleat, and roll up, tying the ends very securely with string to form a shape like wrapped candy.
4. 4
   Carefully place the package into a large saucepan, two-thirds full of boiling water. Cover and simmer for 1 3/4-2 hours. Top off with boiling water when necessary. Lift the package out of the water. Snip the string and roll on to a serving plate. Cut into 8 slices and serve hot with vanilla pudding.