Ploughman's Gazpacho
Introduction to Ploughman's Gazpacho
The Ploughman's Gazpacho is a modern twist on the classic Spanish chilled soup. Traditionally, gazpacho is a cold tomato-based soup, popular in Spain and Portugal during the hot summers. Our version brings in the hearty components of the British Ploughman's lunch. This combination results in a refreshingly satisfying dish that pays homage to both culinary traditions.
The traditional Ploughman's lunch consists of bread, cheese, and pickles, often accompanied by apples and ham. By introducing these elements to the zesty and fresh gazpacho, we create a unique fusion that is both refreshing and hearty, perfect for any summer day or as a starter to an evening meal.
Ingredients
- Tomatoes - 4 large, ripe
- Cucumber - 1 large, peeled and seeded
- Red Bell Pepper - 1, seeded
- Garlic - 2 cloves
- Red Onion - 1 small
- Stale Bread - 2 slices
- Olive Oil - 3 tbsp
- White Vinegar - 2 tbsp
- Cheddar Cheese - 100g, cubed
- Pickled Onions - 50g
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Apple - 1, cored and diced
- Cold Water - 1 cup
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Vegetables
Start by roughly chopping the tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper. Ensure that seeds are removed from the cucumber and red bell pepper. Mince the garlic and finely chop the red onion. Set the vegetables aside.
Preparing Bread
Slice the stale bread into cubes. If the bread is not stale, you can toast it lightly to create firmness. This will add body to the gazpacho without clumping.
Method of Cooking
Blending the Base
In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and garlic. Add the cubed bread to the mixture. Pour in the olive oil, white vinegar, and cold water. Blend until smooth.
Seasoning
Taste the gazpacho and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired. If the consistency is too thick for your liking, slowly add more cold water while blending until the desired texture is achieved.
Incorporating Ploughman's Elements
Transfer the blended mixture to a large bowl. Mix in the cheddar cheese, pickled onions, and apple. Stir well to combine all elements
Chilling
Cover the bowl with cling film or a lid and refrigerate the gazpacho for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop a refreshing chilliness, ideal for optimal taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ploughman's Gazpacho in chilled bowls or cups for added coolness. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprig of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, if desired.
How to Enjoy
This dish is best enjoyed on a warm day when your appetite craves something light yet satisfying. The crunch from the apple and tang from the pickled onions offer texture and contrast to the smooth base, while the cheddar cheese provides a creamy and rich bite. Pair it with a crusty loaf or baguette to fully indulge in a delightedly refreshing meal.
For those looking to elevate the dining experience, enjoy the gazpacho with a glass of crisp white wine or a light cider, enhancing the sweetness brought by the apple and the tang of the gazpacho.