Lancashire Onion Bake
Introduction to Lancashire Onion Bake
The Lancashire Onion Bake is a traditional dish that heralds from the heart of England, specifically the Lancashire region. Known for its hearty and wholesome dishes, Lancashire is famous for incorporating locally sourced ingredients. This savory bake is beloved for its rich flavors and comforting appeal, characteristic of the rustic style of Northern English cuisine. Although it is simple in its preparation, the depth of flavor achieved through its minimal components is remarkable.
This dish calls upon staple ingredients that were common in the working-class homes of Lancashire, especially as a means to make use of abundant onions. Throughout history, especially during hard times, hearty foods like the Lancashire Onion Bake provided nourishment and comfort, which are key to understanding its enduring popularity.
Ingredients
- Onions (large, about 4) - thinly sliced
- Potatoes (medium-sized, about 5) - peeled and sliced
- Butter (100g) - melted
- Lancashire cheese or mature cheddar (200g) - grated
- Double cream (150ml)
- Eggs (2, beaten)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preparing your onions and potatoes. Peel, wash, and slice the onions into thin rings to ensure they cook evenly. Do the same for the potatoes, slicing them thinly to create layers that will cook through in unison with the onions.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). As the oven heats, grease a large baking dish with a portion of the melted butter to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
Building the Bake
Begin layering the dish by placing a layer of potatoes at the base of the dish. Follow this with a layer of onions. Sprinkle a little of the salt and pepper over this layer, then drizzle some butter. Add a handful of grated Lancashire cheese, ensuring an even coverage.
Repeat these layers (potato, onion, seasoning, and cheese) until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese. Reserve a small amount of cheese for the topping.
Cooking Process
Preparing the Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the double cream with the beaten eggs. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Add the leaves from the fresh thyme and mix. This mixture will imbue the dish with a subtle herby flavor.
Baking the Dish
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and onions. Ensure that it seeps through the layers as this will help cook the potatoes and provide a creamy binding to the ingredients.
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Set your cooking timer for 1 hour to allow the potatoes to become tender. After an hour, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and return to the oven for another 25-30 minutes. This will create a golden, crispy cheese crust.
Use your cooking timer to ensure precise cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be served as a standalone, hearty vegetarian option or as an accompaniment to a Sunday roast or roasted meats. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or a selection of steamed vegetables.
Enjoy the Lancashire Onion Bake warm, allowing the rich, melted cheese and creamy potatoes to comfort your palate, bringing the essence of traditional Lancashire right to your table.