This is a delicious recipe for a good old-fashioned cheese and leek pudding. Some health benefits of eating leeks include reducing inflammation and in some cases preventing cataracts, though I’m not sure how many leeks you would need to eat! Leeks also contain a high amount of fibre which aids in improving digestion and are a natural prebiotic to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. This recipe is adapted from the food writer and broadcaster Nigel Barden’s website.

Serves 4.

Ingredients.

1. 450 grams leeks, chopped

2. Salt and freshly ground black pepper

3. 225 grams grated mature cheddar cheese (you can buy ready-grated if this is easier)

4. 175 grams fresh white breadcrumbs (you can buy a pack of ready prepared if this is easier but they may need soaking longer in the mixture.)

5. 4 eggs

6. A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (you can buy ready-grated nutmeg in a jar if this is easier)

7. 300ML double cream

8. 300ML milk

9. Vegetables to serve.

Method.

1. Chop the leeks into shreds or strips and steam them for 10 minutes, or cook them in the microwave with a little water if you prefer to cook your vegetables that way.

2. Preheat the oven to 180C/160C/gas 4. Grease a 25x 19x 6 cm approx pie dish and sprinkle with some of the grated cheese.

3. Once cooled, put a layer of leeks in the bottom of the dish, on top of the cheese, sprinkle with some of the breadcrumbs, sprinkle more grated cheese, then repeat this layering twice more. Remember to leave some cheese for the top.

4. Beat the eggs well together in a large bowl, then add the nutmeg and salt and pepper.

5. In a microwave-proof jug, warm the milk and cream together for 5 minutes. Tip it in with the egg and nutmeg mixture and stir to combine.

6. Pour this mixture slowly over the leeks and breadcrumbs in the pie dish. I would suggest pouring over half, then do some clearing up before pouring the other half to allow it time to soak in. Sprinkle over the remaining cheese.

7. Bake in the oven for 40 minutes until it is golden and set.

8. Serve hot with fresh green vegetables of your choice.