Toad in the Hole is a classic British dish featuring succulent sausages baked in a fluffy Yorkshire pudding batter. This savory comfort food is typically paired with a rich red onion gravy that adds depth and complements the flavors of the sausages. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal to serve guests, this dish is warm, hearty, and flavorful. With its crispy edges and soft center, this Toad in the Hole is a crowd-pleaser that is simple to make and delicious to eat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Toad in the Hole:

• 140 g (1 cup + 1 tbsp) all-purpose flour
• 4 medium eggs
• 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) semi-skimmed milk
• 8 high-quality thick pork sausages
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Red Onion Gravy:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 tsp light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 480 ml (2 cups) hot beef stock (high quality for best flavor)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Steps to Make Classic Toad in the Hole with Red Onion Gravy

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and black pepper together.
   • Make a well in the center and add the eggs. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking until you achieve a smooth batter.
   • Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes (this helps the batter rise better when baking).
2. Cook the Sausages:
   • Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and place the sausages in the dish.
   • Place the dish in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the sausages start to brown and the oil is hot.
3. Pour in the Batter and Bake:
   • Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Quickly pour the batter over the sausages (the hot oil will help the batter rise and become crispy).
   • Return the dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the batter is golden and puffed around the sausages.
   • Avoid opening the oven during cooking, as this can cause the batter to deflate.
4. Make the Red Onion Gravy:
   • While the Toad in the Hole is baking, prepare the gravy.
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and butter. Once melted, add the sliced red onions and cook for about 10 minutes until softened.
   • Add the light brown sugar, stirring until the onions are caramelized.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
   • Gradually pour in the hot beef stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
   • Simmer the gravy for 10-15 minutes until it thickens. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve:
   • Once the Toad in the Hole is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven and slice into portions.
   • Serve hot with a generous drizzle of red onion gravy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Sugar: 4 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of sausages? Yes, feel free to experiment with different sausages such as beef or chicken. The flavor will vary depending on the sausage type.
2. How do I get the batter to rise well? Make sure the batter rests for at least 30 minutes, and that the oil is very hot when you pour in the batter. Avoid opening the oven door during baking.
3. Can I make the gravy in advance? Absolutely. Prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat it just before serving.
4. What other vegetables pair well with this dish? Toad in the Hole pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables, peas, or steamed green beans.
5. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Tips for Making the Best Toad in the Hole

1. Rest the Batter: Letting the batter rest helps it to become fluffier and rise better.
2. Heat the Oil: Ensure the oil is hot when adding the batter. This step is essential for a crispy base.
3. Use a High-Quality Beef Stock: Good stock makes a significant difference in the flavor of the gravy.
4. Serve Immediately: Toad in the Hole is best served fresh from the oven to retain its crispiness.
5. Caramelize the Onions Well: This enhances the depth and sweetness of the gravy, balancing the savory dish perfectly.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
• In the Freezer: Wrap portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Classic Toad in the Hole with Red Onion Gravy is a comforting dish that brings traditional British flavors to your table. This easy-to-make recipe captures the rich and hearty appeal of sausages baked in fluffy Yorkshire pudding, complemented by a caramelized red onion gravy. It’s a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy this timeless dish as you experience the wonderful flavors of British cuisine!