Christmas toad in the hole

What do you get when you cross pigs in blankets with toad in the hole? You get Christmas toad in the hole, an ideal dinner for the festive season. This dish combines savory sausages wrapped in turkey bacon with a fluffy Yorkshire pudding batter, creating a heartwarming meal perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations. It’s not only delicious but also versatile, easily adaptable for vegetarians and various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and chipolata sausages brings a delightful taste that’s perfect for Christmas.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe makes cooking a breeze.
• Versatile Dish: Can be made vegetarian by swapping out the meat and using vegetable stock in the gravy.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown Yorkshire pudding rises beautifully around the sausages, making it a stunning centerpiece.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for hunkering down on cold winter nights or serving at festive gatherings with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Christmas toad in the hole efficiently, having the right tools is essential. A good roasting tin helps ensure even cooking while making cleanup easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Roasting tin (23x33cm/9x13in)
• Whisk
• Frying pan
• Measuring jug
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Roasting tin: This deep dish holds all your ingredients together while allowing them to cook evenly.
• Whisk: Essential for blending your Yorkshire pudding batter smoothly without lumps.
• Frying pan: Used for making delicious onion gravy that complements your dish perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Yorkshire Pudding Batter

• 175g/6oz plain flour, sifted
• 4 large free-range eggs
• 300ml/½ pint full-fat milk
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard

For the Meat Component

• 6 rashers smoked streaky Turkey Bacon
• 12 chipolata sausages

For Roasting Vegetables

• 4 tbsp sunflower or vegetable oil
• 2 onions, peeled and cut into wedges
• 200g/7oz sage and onion stuffing, rolled into 8 balls
• 200g/7oz Brussels sprouts, trimmed
• 2 small-medium leeks, trimmed and cut into 1–2cm/½–¾ thick slices

For the Gravy

• 25g/1oz butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 onions, sliced
• 1 tsp chopped thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 500ml/18fl oz good-quality chicken stock
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• cranberry sauce

How to Make Christmas toad in the hole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7. This high temperature will ensure that your Yorkshire pudding batter rises perfectly.

Step 2: Make the Yorkshire Pudding Batter

1. Sift the flour into a large bowl and create a well in the center.
2. In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs and milk until combined.
3. Pour this mixture into the well of flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in Dijon mustard, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
5. Set aside to rest while preparing other components.

Step 3: Prepare Pigs in Blankets

1. Stretch each Turkey Bacon rasher slightly to lengthen it by about one third.
2. Cut each rasher in half.
3. Wrap each piece around a chipolata sausage.

Step 4: Roast Meat and Vegetables

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil in your roasting tin.
2. Add pigs in blankets, onion wedges, and stuffing balls.
3. Roast for about 20 minutes until they start turning golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

1. In a frying pan, heat butter along with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and chopped thyme; cook until onions are tender and slightly browned (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Sprinkle in plain flour, stir for another 30 seconds.
4. Gradually pour in chicken stock while stirring continuously until boiling.
5. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes until thickened; add Worcestershire sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Add Sprouts & Leeks

1. After roasting meat for 20 minutes, add Brussels sprouts and leeks to the tin along with remaining oil.
2. Return everything to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables begin softening.

Step 7: Pour in Batter

Quickly remove the roasting tin from oven once veggies are ready:
1. Pour Yorkshire pudding batter around sausages, stuffing, and vegetables evenly.
2. Return roasting tin to oven for another 20-25 minutes until batter is puffed up and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot with rich onion gravy drizzled on top or on the side along with cranberry sauce for added flavor.

This engaging recipe of Christmas toad in the hole will surely delight your family during festive gatherings! Enjoy!

How to Serve Christmas toad in the hole

Serving Christmas toad in the hole is a delightful way to create a festive atmosphere. This dish pairs well with various sides and condiments that enhance its savory flavors and textures.

With Rich Onion Gravy

• A warm, homemade onion gravy adds depth and moisture, making each bite indulgent and flavorful.

Accompanied by Cranberry Sauce

• The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce balances the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast.

Served with Seasonal Vegetables

• Include roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or parsnips for a vibrant plate that complements the hearty nature of the meal.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange slices of Christmas toad in the hole on a large board alongside various sides for a family-style feast that encourages sharing.

Paired with Yorkshire Pudding

• For those who want an extra touch of tradition, serving additional Yorkshire puddings can make the meal even more comforting.

How to Perfect Christmas toad in the hole

To achieve the best results with your Christmas toad in the hole, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for a lighter batter.

• Preheat Your Tin: Heating the roasting tin before adding the batter helps create that iconic rise and crispy texture.

• Don’t Open the Oven Door: Avoid opening the oven while cooking; this ensures consistent heat for perfect puffiness.

• Season Generously: Proper seasoning enhances all flavors; don’t shy away from salt and pepper in both the batter and gravy.

Best Side Dishes for Christmas toad in the hole

Complementing your Christmas toad in the hole with side dishes can elevate your festive meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Roasted Root Vegetables
   A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and color.

2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   Fluffy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs beautifully with rich gravies.

3. Steamed Green Beans
   Bright green beans add freshness; steam them lightly to preserve their vibrant color and crunch.

4. Garlic Bread Rolls
   Soft and buttery rolls infused with garlic make for an irresistible accompaniment perfect for mopping up gravy.

5. Cauliflower Cheese
   This creamy dish adds a cheesy element that contrasts nicely with the savory components of your main dish.

6. Brussels Sprouts with Chestnuts
   Roasted Brussels sprouts combined with chestnuts create a nutty flavor profile that elevates your meal’s seasonal touch.

7. Peas with Mint
   Fresh peas tossed with mint offer a refreshing note that lightens up rich flavors on your plate.

8. Apple Sauce
   A side of apple sauce brings acidity and sweetness to balance out the savory richness of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Christmas toad in the hole perfect, steer clear of these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the Yorkshire pudding batter to rest can prevent it from rising properly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your oven is preheated to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7 for best results.

• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients can hinder the batter from puffing up. Make sure there’s enough space in the roasting tin for even cooking.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can affect how well your batter rises. Bring them to room temperature before mixing for optimal results.

• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each component can result in bland flavors. Season both the batter and gravy generously with salt and pepper.

• Rushing the cooking process: Hurrying through steps may lead to undercooked sausages or soggy vegetables. Take your time and follow each step carefully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Christmas toad in the hole

• You can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Christmas toad in the hole

• Oven: Preheat to 180C/350F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Christmas toad in the hole.

Can I use vegetarian options for Christmas toad in the hole?

Yes! Substitute turkey bacon with vegetarian bacon and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I ensure my Yorkshire pudding rises?

Ensure your batter ingredients are at room temperature, and preheat your oven properly so that it cooks quickly and puffs up nicely.

What sides pair well with Christmas toad in the hole?

Consider serving with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter and assemble everything but bake it just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

The Christmas toad in the hole is a festive dish that marries comfort food with holiday cheer. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on preferences, whether using different types of sausages or seasonal vegetables. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends!