Yorkshire Ash Bake

Introduction to Yorkshire Ash Bake

Yorkshire Ash Bake is a traditional British dish with a rich heritage intertwined with the culinary traditions of the Yorkshire region. This dish embodies the essence of comforting home-cooked meals, characterized by its hearty ingredients and satisfying flavors. Historically, it was a way to utilize leftover food, packaged creatively into a baked delight that brings warmth to any table. The ash bake combines simple ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and herbs to create an impressive and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 500g
• Cheese (preferably mature cheddar) - 200g
• Butter - 50g
• Onion - 1 large
• Herbs (such as thyme and rosemary) - 2 tablespoons
• Milk - 100ml
• Cream - 100ml
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

Begin by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. A mandoline slicer can assist in achieving consistent slices, allowing for even cooking. Once sliced, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch and pat them dry.

Step 2: Chopping the Onion

Finely chop the onion and set aside. It's crucial to have it fine so that it cooks evenly with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Grating the Cheese

Grate the cheese and divide it into two portions. Reserve one half for layering within the dish and the other half for the topping.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Layering the Dish

Grease a baking dish with butter. Begin layering with a third of the potatoes, followed by a third of the onion, a sprinkle of herbs, a dash of salt and pepper, and a portion of the grated cheese. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, ensuring the final layer is of the grated cheese.

Step 2: Preparing the Cream Mixture

In a small saucepan, combine milk and cream, warming gently over low heat until well combined. Avoid bringing the mixture to a boil. Pour this evenly over the layered potatoes and cheese.

Step 3: Baking the Dish

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After this initial period, remove the foil to allow the top to brown and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender. Use a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing.

Serving Suggestions

Once the Yorkshire Ash Bake has finished cooking, allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, providing a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy bake. Enjoy every bite of this homely dish, savoring the blend of comforting flavors that is a testament to British culinary tradition.

For an extended dining experience, accompany this meal with a glass of full-bodied white wine or a light red, complementing the cheesy richness of the dish.