A homey, heartwarming staple, close to my British heart - pease pudding is a lentil spread, that marries perfectly with roast ham. A North Eastern British treasure - learn why!
Add all the pease pudding ingredients to a pan and cover with 4 cups water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered for 1 - 1 1/2 hours until the lentils are tender and not grainy.
Remove the bacon and bay leaves, and carefully pour away any liquid - it'll make the pease pudding too watery.
Using a hand blender, blitz into a smooth puree.
Add the vinegar and check for seasoning, adding a little salt or pepper as you see fit.
Decant to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a couple of hours or overnight.
To serve, spread liberally on bread and add slices of ham.