Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (120ml) cold water
  • ½ cup (115g) shredded beef suet (or vegetarian suet)
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (150g) diced carrots
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
  2. Cut in the suet until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
  3. Gradually add cold water until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead lightly, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
  5. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until soft.
  6. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  7. Stir in carrots, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
  8. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  9. Roll out the chilled pastry to fit the pudding basin, leaving some overhang.
  10. Fill the basin with the beef mixture, then fold over the pastry top and seal it using string or a lid.
  11. Place parchment over the top and tie securely.
  12. Add water to the pot, place the pudding basin on a steaming rack, and cover with a lid.
  13. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, steaming for 2 hours.
  14. Check water levels occasionally, adding more water as needed to prevent drying out.
  15. Carefully remove the pudding from the pot. Let it rest for a few minutes before unmolding.
  16. Slice and serve with gravy or your choice of sauce.