Carrying a flaming pudding to the Christmas table is a festive tradition that is a delight to children and grow-ups alike. Unfortunately, it can often be a bit of an anti-climax because the flames have a tendency to extinguish before the pudding has left the kitchen. Here's some useful advice for increasing your chances of a flaming success.

Buy a miniature bottle of brandy and the same size of vodka (which has a higher alcoholic content). Pour both into a small pan and warm to around blood heat just before the pudding is about to be carried to the table. This will ensure the mixture will light easily after it is poured over the pudding and will continue to burn right up to being served.