Mandarin-in-the-middle Christmas Pudding Recipe

In a large bowl, combine dried fruit, orange zest, orange juice, and brandy. Let it sit for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a pudding basin.

In a separate bowl, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Add the melted butter, milk, and beaten eggs to the dried fruit mixture. Stir well to combine.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, and mix until just combined.

Pour half of the pudding mixture into the greased basin. Place the peeled mandarin in the center, then cover with the remaining pudding mixture.

Cover the basin with greased parchment paper, then tightly wrap with aluminum foil.

Place the basin in a large pot of boiling water, ensuring the water comes halfway up the sides of the basin. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 2 hours, adding more water if necessary.

Carefully remove the basin from the pot and let it cool for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a serving plate.

Serve the Mandarin-in-the-middle Christmas Pudding warm with custard or whipped cream.