Yorkshire pudding is a beloved staple of British cuisine, traditionally served alongside a roast dinner. But why settle for small individual puddings when you can make one giant, show-stopping version? A giant Yorkshire pudding is not only impressive to look at, but it also makes a perfect vessel for delicious fillings like roast beef, sausages, or even a vegetarian alternative. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the ultimate giant Yorkshire pudding that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients:
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200g (1 ½ cups) plain flour
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4 large eggs
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300ml (1 ¼ cups) whole milk
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½ tsp salt
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2 tbsp vegetable oil or beef dripping
Equipment:
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A large roasting tin (approximately 10-12 inches in diameter)
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A mixing bowl
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A whisk or electric hand mixer
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An oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
The key to a successful Yorkshire pudding is heat. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) or 200°C (fan-assisted). While the oven is heating up, place the roasting tin inside with the vegetable oil or beef dripping. The oil must become piping hot before adding the batter.
2. Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, and salt until you achieve a smooth consistency. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to ensure a lump-free batter. The batter should be slightly thinner than pancake batter. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes (this helps improve the rise and texture).
3. Heat the Oil
Once the oven is hot and the oil in the roasting tin is sizzling, carefully remove the tin from the oven. Be extremely cautious, as hot oil can splatter. The oil should be smoking hot—this is crucial for achieving a crisp and well-risen Yorkshire pudding.
4. Pour in the Batter
Quickly but carefully, pour the batter into the hot roasting tin. It should sizzle immediately upon contact. Immediately place it back into the oven without delay.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes without opening the oven door. The pudding will puff up dramatically and turn a golden brown color. If you open the oven too soon, it may collapse, so resist the temptation to check too early.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove from the oven and serve immediately. A giant Yorkshire pudding is incredibly versatile—serve it as a side dish with roast beef and gravy, or get creative and turn it into a Yorkshire pudding wrap, filled with your favorite ingredients.
Tips for the Best Giant Yorkshire Pudding:
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Hot Oil is Key: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the batter won’t rise properly.
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Rest the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest before baking helps with its texture and rise.
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Use the Right Flour: Plain flour works best; self-raising flour is not recommended.
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Don’t Open the Oven Door: The heat must stay consistent for a perfect rise.
Final Thoughts
A giant Yorkshire pudding is a fantastic way to elevate your Sunday roast or even serve as a fun meal on its own. Whether filled with meats, vegetables, or enjoyed with just gravy, this dish is bound to impress. Try it out and make your roast dinner extra special!
Would you like to experiment with different fillings or flavor variations? Let us know your favorite ways to enjoy Yorkshire pudding!