Delia Smith Toad in the Hole Recipe

Delia Smith’s Toad in the Hole is a classic British comfort dish, featuring crispy, golden Yorkshire pudding batter baked around juicy sausages. This easy and delicious recipe is perfect for a hearty family dinner, especially when served with onion gravy, mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.

What is Delia Smith’s Toad in the Hole?

Toad in the Hole is a traditional British dish where sausages are baked in a light, airy Yorkshire pudding batter. The batter puffs up around the sausages, creating a crispy yet soft texture that pairs beautifully with a rich onion gravy.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Toad in the Hole
• Jamie Oliver Savoury Pancakes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Classic British Comfort Food – A family favorite for generations.
• Golden and Crispy Batter – Light, fluffy, and full of flavor.
• Simple Ingredients – Requires pantry staples.
• Easy and Quick to Make – Ready in under 1 hour.
• Perfect with Gravy and Vegetables – A complete meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Delia Smith’s Toad in the Hole

For the Batter:

• Plain Flour (110g / ¾ cup) – Forms the base of the batter.
• Eggs (2, large) – Creates a fluffy texture.
• Milk (150ml / ⅔ cup, full-fat preferred) – Adds richness.
• Water (150ml / ⅔ cup) – Helps lighten the batter.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances flavor.

For the Sausages:

• Sausages (6-8, high quality) – The heart of the dish.
• Vegetable Oil or Beef Dripping (2 tbsp) – Helps the batter rise and crisp up.

For the Onion Gravy (Optional but Recommended):

• Onions (2 large, thinly sliced) – Adds sweetness and depth.
• Butter (25g / 2 tbsp) – For cooking the onions.
• Beef Stock (500ml / 2 cups) – Forms the base of the gravy.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp) – Adds a rich umami flavor.
• Plain Flour (1 tbsp) – Thickens the gravy.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances flavor.

For Serving (Optional but Recommended):

• Mashed Potatoes – A creamy and comforting side.
• Steamed Peas & Carrots – Adds color and freshness.
• Roasted Parsnips – A slightly sweet contrast.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring jug
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Frying pan
• Wooden spoon

Instructions to Make Delia Smith’s Toad in the Hole

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour and salt together.
• Make a well in the center and crack in the eggs.
• Gradually whisk in the milk and water, mixing until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes to ensure a crispier Yorkshire pudding.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Cook the Sausages

• Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F, Gas Mark 7).
• Pour the vegetable oil or beef dripping into a baking dish and place it in the oven for 10 minutes until smoking hot.
• Meanwhile, brown the sausages in a frying pan for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden.
• Carefully remove the hot dish from the oven and place the sausages inside.

Step 3: Bake the Toad in the Hole

• Quickly pour the batter over the hot oil and sausages.
• Return the dish to the oven immediately and bake for 30-35 minutes until the batter is puffed up, golden, and crispy.
• Do not open the oven door while baking, as this can cause the batter to deflate.

Step 4: Make the Onion Gravy (Optional)

• Heat butter in a frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the sliced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until caramelized.
• Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute.
• Gradually add the beef stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Simmer for 5 minutes, then add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the toad in the hole from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes.
• Slice into portions and serve with onion gravy, mashed potatoes, and vegetables.

What Goes Well With Delia Smith Toad in the Hole

• Rich Onion Gravy – A must-have for extra flavor.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A soft, buttery contrast to the crispy batter.
• Steamed Greens – Broccoli, peas, or green beans add freshness.
• Caramelized Carrots – Slightly sweet and savory.
• Pickled Red Cabbage – A tangy contrast to the richness.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Toad in the Hole

• Use a Hot Oven & Oil – Ensures the batter rises properly.
• Rest the Batter – Improves texture and crispiness.
• Brown the Sausages First – Adds extra flavor.
• Don’t Open the Oven Door – Prevents the batter from sinking.
• Use a Metal Baking Dish – Helps distribute heat evenly.

Easy Variations of Delia Smith’s Toad in the Hole

• Vegetarian Version – Use vegetarian sausages and vegetable stock for the gravy.
• Spicy Twist – Add ½ tsp chili flakes or paprika to the batter.
• Herb-Infused Batter – Stir in thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
• Cheesy Toad in the Hole – Sprinkle grated cheese into the batter.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free flour instead of plain flour.

Best Practices to Store Delia Smith Toad in the Hole

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the Oven – Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to keep it crispy.
• Freeze for up to 1 Month – Wrap portions tightly and reheat in the oven.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Why didn’t my toad in the hole rise?

Ensure your oven and oil are hot before adding the batter. Also, resting the batter for 30 minutes improves its rise.

Can I make toad in the hole without eggs?

Yes, but it will have a slightly denser texture. Use a vegan egg substitute or a mixture of flaxseed and water.

How do I make sure my toad in the hole is crispy?

Use beef dripping or vegetable oil, and make sure it’s smoking hot before pouring in the batter.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

Final Words

Delia Smith’s Toad in the Hole is a classic British dish that’s crispy, golden, and full of flavor. With its light Yorkshire pudding batter and juicy sausages, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve it with onion gravy, mashed potatoes, and vegetables for the ultimate homemade British dinner!

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