Let’s make a classic British dish: Steak and Kidney Pudding.
This hearty and comforting dish dates back to the 19th century and has been a staple in British cuisine ever since.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons classic onion gravy (see below)
- 500g stewed beef, cubed
- 200g beef or lamb kidneys, diced
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato puree
- 1 beef stock cube
- 1 bay leaf
- 500ml water
- Salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with a little cold water (if needed)
- 2 packs of ready-made puff pastry
- 50g butter, for greasing the dishes
- 6 sprigs of parsley for serving
For the onion gravy (makes 12 tablespoons):
- 3 onions, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
- Make the onion gravy: Place the onions and other vegetables in a heavy-bottomed pan, cover tightly, and cook for 10-20 minutes, depending on the quantity. The onions should turn translucent and sweet.
- Set the onion gravy aside.
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Brown the meat: In a large skillet, brown the meat in oil over high heat. Add flour and stir to coat. Add the remaining filling ingredients (including the onion gravy) and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender. The sauce should be thick but not too thick. If it’s too thin, thicken with a little cornstarch mixed with cold water. Season to taste.
- Assemble the puddings: Cut each sheet of pastry into 6 equal pieces. Grease the pudding molds with butter. Place a piece of pastry in each mold and fill with the meat mixture. Cover with another piece of pastry, pressing the edges to seal. Trim excess pastry and cover with a small piece of parchment paper and foil.
- Bake: Place the molds on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let stand for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve the puddings on individual plates, garnished with parsley.
Enjoy your homemade Steak and Kidney Pudding!
Note: This recipe provides a classic approach to making Steak and Kidney Pudding. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and cooking times to your preference.