Instructions: Truss the fowl, and place in a large pot with the stock and 1tsp salt.

Bring to the boil and cook gently for 2 hours, or until the fowl is tender, when it should be removed. Clear all the grease off with paper.

Add the leeks, washed, blanched (if old and strong), and cut into inch lengths, with more salt if required. Add Jamaica pepper to taste and simmer very gently until the leeks are tender.

Half an hour before serving, the prunes (if desired) should be added whole. A little minced fowl may be added to the soup.

If water is used in place of stock, add a clove, a blade of mace, a sprig of parsley, and six peppercorns tied in muslin, and remove along with the fowl.

Some cooks add 2tbsp of rice. Serve piping hot with warm bread.

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