Durham Fluffin'

Geoff Watson

A milk pudding traditional eaten in the north east of England on Christmas Eve. The pearl barley has to be soaked overnight.

2 tablespoons pearl barley, soaked in water overnight
600ml (1pint) full cream milk
3/4 teaspoon of grated nutmeg
A few drops of brandy
50g ( 1 3/4 ounces ) soft brown sugar or 1 tablespoon of honey
Crystallized orange slices for decoration

Serves 6

Simmer the soaked pearl barley in the milk for about 30 mins or util it is a smooth cream. Add grated nutmeg, brandy and sugar or honey to taste. Serve hot in individual dishes with plenty of pouring cream decorated with the orange slices or with cream.