It’s that time of year when we can indulge a little too much in the good things in life such as delicous food and festive drinks. However if you are intolerant to dairy and/or gluten and wanting to avoid sugar due to weight gain and inflammation, the Christmas feast may seem a little daunting. But all is well! I would like to share my ‘guilt-free’ healthy Christmas pudding recipe. It is gluten- free, low in saturated fat and sugar, and tastes delicious! It is easy to make, nice and light, and won’t cause stomach bloating like traditional versions. The dried fruit adds sweetness and moisture, so you don’t need to add extra sugar or added fats.
Dairy -free, Gluten-free, Sugar-free, Guilt-free Christmas Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
225 g fresh pitted dates
1/2 whole orange, chopped
1 free range / organic egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup (125g) organic sultanas or raisins*
3/4 cup (125g) organic dried apricots*, chopped
1 1/2 cups (150g) almond meal / ground almonds
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
*Make sure the dried fruit is free of sulphur dioxide – preservative 220, which is no good for anyone, especially asthmatics)
Method
- Preheat oven to 180°C.
- Line a cup cake/bun tray with patty cases/pans.
- Combine dates, orange into a food processor and process until a paste forms.
- Add egg and vanilla then process again until smooth.
- Transfer to a large bowl. Add sultanas, apricots, almond meal, spices and mix well.
- Divide between patty cases. Place into a deep baking dish. Pour enough hot water to come half way up sides of pudding bowls. Cover with a layer of each baking paper and foil, pressing around edges of pan to completely seal. Bake for 1 hour.
- Enjoy immediately or reheat on the day. Serve with your choice of custard or natural yoghurt and a little honey.
Click here to read more information about going gluten-free.