Q&A with Glenys Woollard - Food

Are fresh apricots best stored in the fridge?

Yes, so long as they are fully ripened. Slightly green apricots should be left at room temperature until ripe - the skin should feel slightly spongy though not soft. Apricots are often sold slightly under-ripe since the fully ripened fruit is easily bruised. Fresh apricots are a good source of vitamins, and though early varieties tend to be small they often have the best flavour. Note that raw apricot kernels contain cyanide, and can be poisonous if eaten in large quantities.

Can you supply a recipe for Steamed Christmas Pudding sweetened with honey?

Beat 125g softened butter with 125g honey until light, then beat in 2 eggs, one at a time. Sift in 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon mixed spice and 1/4 teaspoon salt, then add 1 cup soft white breadcrumbs and 400g mixed dried fruit followed by 1 tablespoon of brandy or milk. Mix well then turn into a greased and base-lined pudding basin, cover and steam for about 3 1/2 hours.

If you have a food question email Glenys at glenyswoollard@clear.net.nz