Toad In The Hole

Toad in the hole is a classic British dish consisting of sausages baked in a large Yorkshire pudding. The funny name likely originated as a reference to how the sausages poke out of the pudding like toads peering out of holes. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s inexpensive to make and appeals to both children and adults. Serve it with rich onion gravy, mashed potatoes and peas for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Toad:

• 8 high-quality pork sausages (plain, Lincolnshire or Cumberland)
• 2 tbsp beef drippings or lard
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

For the Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder
• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sparkling water or ale
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (secret ingredient for stability)

For the Caramelized Onion Gravy:

• 2 large red onions, halved and thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tsp flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef stock
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place beef drippings in a large metal baking tin and heat in the oven until smoking hot.
2. Mix the batter ingredients, including the mayonnaise, until smooth. Let rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
3. Brown the sausages in the hot baking tin for 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Brush with mustard.
4. Quickly pour in the batter, sprinkle with cheese and herbs. Immediately return to oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until puffed and golden. Do not open the oven for at least 20 minutes!
5. For the gravy, caramelize onions in butter over medium-low heat for 20 minutes. Add balsamic vinegar, then flour. Slowly pour in stock while stirring. Season with Worcestershire, salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
6. Serve the toad in the hole immediately with the rich onion gravy, mashed potatoes and peas. Enjoy!

The addition of mayonnaise to the Yorkshire pudding batter is a game-changer. This secret ingredient helps stabilize the batter so it puffs up beautifully and deflates less. Combined with the other tips like using high-quality sausages, beef drippings, rested batter, and pre-browning the sausages, you’re guaranteed an exceptionally risen, crisp and flavorful toad in the hole.

The aromatic herbs, tangy mustard, savory cheese and splash of ale in the batter add wonderful depth of flavor. Paired with the luxurious caramelized onion gravy, this ultimate toad in the hole recipe elevates the classic comfort food to new heights. Your family and friends will be thoroughly impressed and satisfied with this delicious dish!