Steamed Fruit Loaf

PHOTO: SHAWN MCAVINUE

Waikaka Valley Rural Women have been catering the Merrydowns ram fair since the sale started 15 years ago. Treasurer Jeanette McIntyre, of Waikaka Valley, shares her recipe for her steamed fruit loaf.

1. Put water in saucepan and bring to boil.

2. Prepare four tins (old fruit tins are good, about 420gm size) by lightly greasing; cut rounds of butter paper or greaseproof paper and place in bottom.

3. Place in a bowl:

1 ½ cups wholemeal flour

¾ cup plain flour

½ cup sugar

2 cups mixed fruit

4. Melt together gently (don't let boil):

2 Tbsp syrup

1 ½ cups milk

1 tsp baking soda

5. Combine both mixtures and spoon into prepared tins.

6. Cover loosely with tin foil and lightly boil in pot for up to 1 hour.

Take out and cool slightly before shaking out delicious loaves.