Steak and Onion Suet Pudding

For the Suet Crust:

• 2 cups self-raising flour
• 1 cup shredded suet
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• Cold water (enough to bring the dough together, around 6-7 tablespoons)

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) beef steak (preferably stewing or braising steak), cut into cubes
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 cup beef stock
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional for Serving:

• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed vegetables (like peas, carrots, or green beans)
• Gravy

How to Make Steak and Onion Suet Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Brown the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the cubed beef steak and brown on all sides. This will help seal in the flavor and make the steak tender.
2. Caramelize the Onions: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the sliced onions. Cook them slowly over low heat until they become soft, golden, and caramelized—this takes about 10 minutes.
3. Add the Liquids: Once the onions are caramelized, add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and beef stock. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has reduced slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Suet Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the self-raising flour, shredded suet, salt, and pepper.
2. Add Water: Gradually add the cold water, stirring continuously until the mixture forms a dough. You want it to be soft but not too sticky.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a minute or two to bring it together. Roll it out into a circle large enough to fit the pudding basin (about 12 inches in diameter).

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding

1. Prepare the Pudding Basin: Grease a 2-liter (about 8-cup) pudding basin or bowl. Line the bottom with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Filling: Spoon the steak and onion mixture into the pudding basin. Make sure it’s evenly distributed.
3. Cover with the Dough: Carefully drape the suet dough over the top of the filling. Seal the edges of the dough to the sides of the basin, trimming off any excess dough. You can use a little water to help seal the edges.
4. Cover the Basin: Cut a large piece of parchment paper and a piece of aluminum foil to create a double layer to cover the top of the basin. Secure the edges tightly with string, leaving a bit of room for the pudding to expand as it cooks.

Step 4: Steam the Pudding

1. Prepare the Steaming Setup: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, making sure the water level is below the rim of the pudding basin. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
2. Steam the Pudding: Place the covered pudding basin in the pot and cover the pot with a lid. Steam for about 2 to 2.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the water level stays constant. Add more boiling water if necessary.
3. Check the Pudding: After 2.5 hours, remove the pudding from the pot and carefully take off the parchment paper and foil. Check if the suet crust is firm and golden.

Step 5: Serve

1. Unmold the Pudding: Turn the pudding out onto a serving plate. Be careful, as it may be hot and slightly steamy.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the steak and onion suet pudding and serve it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and plenty of rich gravy.

Tips for the Best Steak and Onion Suet Pudding

• Use Tender Stew Meat: Since the beef is slow-cooked in the filling, it’s best to use cuts of meat that benefit from long cooking, like stewing steak or braising steak. These cuts become tender and juicy after hours of cooking.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When making the suet crust, avoid overworking the dough. A light touch ensures a tender and crumbly texture that will melt in your mouth.
• Ensure Proper Steaming: Steam the pudding long enough to ensure the suet crust cooks through. If you’re unsure, you can insert a skewer into the pudding to check—it should come out clean.

Why You’ll Love Steak and Onion Suet Pudding

Steak and Onion Suet Pudding is a timeless classic that’s perfect for a cozy meal with family and friends. The rich, flavorful beef and onions pair wonderfully with the light, flaky suet crust. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you crave something comforting, this dish is sure to satisfy.

The best part? It’s a great way to use inexpensive cuts of meat while making something truly delicious. So, next time you’re in the mood for traditional British comfort food, give this Steak and Onion Suet Pudding recipe a try—it’s a dish that never goes out of style!