Sticky Ginger & Date Pudding

This is a proper, old-school steamed pudding, but lighter than the traditional version. Dates make it sticky and sweet without loads of refined sugar. Ginger makes it warming. Serve with a dollop of yoghurt or custard. It's winter on a plate.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 150g pitted dates, roughly chopped
• 150ml boiling water
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 50g butter, softened
• 50g coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 150g self-raising flour (or gluten-free blend)
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Method:

1. Put the dates and boiling water in a bowl. Stir in the bicarb and let it sit for 10 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease a small baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg.
4. Stir in the flour, ginger, and cinnamon.
5. Add the date mixture (including the liquid) and stir until combined.
6. Pour into the dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes until firm and golden.
7. Serve warm with yoghurt or custard.

Why it's gut-friendly: Dates are rich in fibre and natural sweetness. Ginger is anti-inflammatory and aids digestion. A comforting, gut-friendly pudding.