01 -
Place metal cookie cutters, a folded towel, or crumpled foil at the base of a large stockpot to prevent direct contact between the pudding mold and pot. Add water and bring to a boil. Generously grease a 1.6-liter pudding mold.
02 -
In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and suet or butter. Pulse until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl.
03 -
Add milk, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and dried currants to the bowl. Stir until a thick batter forms. Spoon the mixture evenly into the greased pudding mold and secure the lid tightly.
04 -
Lower the pudding mold into the boiling water so the water reaches halfway up the sides of the mold. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and steam undisturbed for 90 minutes, or 3–4 hours if using suet for a lighter, spongier texture. Use a plate weighted on top if necessary to keep the mold submerged. Check the water level periodically and top up as needed.
05 -
Carefully remove the mold from the pot and allow to stand for 15 minutes. Invert the pudding onto a serving plate, cut into wedges, and serve warm with English custard sauce.