Imagine a cozy evening, your family gathered around the dinner table, enjoying a quintessential British classic, Toad in the Hole. I know it sounds strange, but this dish is a true comfort food gem that has been warming hearts and bellies for generations. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s both delicious and easy to make, look no further!
Toad in the Hole is a delightful combination of savory sausages baked in a golden, crispy Yorkshire pudding batter. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, be it a simple family dinner or a gathering of friends. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for the busiest of home cooks.
As a woman who loves cooking and sharing my creations with loved ones, I know how important it is to find recipes that deliver on both taste and simplicity. So, let’s dive into the process of making the most scrumptious Toad in the Hole you’ve ever tasted!
Choosing the Right Sausages
The star of this dish is, without a doubt, the sausages. I recommend using good-quality, well-seasoned pork sausages. However, feel free to get creative with your choice of sausage – think chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options!
Perfecting the Yorkshire Pudding Batter
A light and fluffy Yorkshire pudding is the key to a successful Toad in the Hole. The secret? Letting the batter rest for a bit before baking. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a tender, airy pudding.
Getting the Timing Right
Timing is everything when it comes to baking the perfect Toad in the Hole. Preheat your oven and your baking dish, then pour in the batter and add the sausages as quickly as possible. This ensures that the pudding will puff up and become golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Toad in the Hole is best enjoyed hot from the oven, accompanied by a rich onion gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and your favorite veggies. It’s a meal that will leave you feeling warm, satisfied, and ready to take on whatever life has in store.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and prepare to experience a true British classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
Classic Toad in the Hole
Course: Main CourseCuisine: British4
servings10
minutes40
minutes550
kcalA comforting and delightful British classic that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
8 good-quality pork sausages
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 1/4 cups milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
Onion gravy, mashed potatoes, and veggies for serving
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 9×13-inch baking dish in the oven to heat up.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until combined. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to create a smooth, lump-free batter. Set aside to rest for 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove the heated baking dish from the oven and add the vegetable oil, swirling it around to coat the bottom. Arrange the sausages in the dish, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the sausages are browned.
- Give the rested batter a quick whisk, then carefully pour it over the sausages. Sprinkle the optional chopped rosemary on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the batter is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove the Toad in the Hole from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before cutting into portions.
- Serve with onion gravy, mashed potatoes, and your choice of steamed or roasted veggies.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetarian sausages instead of pork sausages.
- You can also add other herbs, like thyme or sage, to the batter for extra flavor.
- Make sure not to open the oven door while the Toad in the Hole is cooking, as this can cause the batter to deflate.
Classic Toad in the Hole is a perfect comfort food that pairs well with a variety of dishes. The rich, savory flavors of the sausages and Yorkshire pudding are complemented by creamy mashed potatoes and a delicious onion gravy. Steamed or roasted veggies, such as carrots, peas, or green beans, add a touch of freshness and balance to the meal.
For a complete British dining experience, consider starting your meal with a light appetizer, such as a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, a classic tomato soup, or a small serving of Welsh rarebit. If you’re looking for something to serve on the side, a crusty loaf of bread or a batch of soft dinner rolls would be a delightful accompaniment to help soak up any leftover onion gravy.
As for dessert, consider ending your meal with a traditional British treat, like sticky toffee pudding, apple crumble, or a slice of Bakewell tart, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of custard. To complete the meal, enjoy a hot cup of English tea or a glass of your favorite British beer or cider.