Toad in the Hole Recipe

Sausages: The main protein in the dish, providing a savory and meaty flavor.

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the batter, giving it structure and lightness.

Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.

Eggs: Help bind the batter together and add fluffiness.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the batter.

Vegetable oil: Used to cook the sausages and prevent sticking.

To achieve a perfectly puffed and golden batter in your toad in the hole, make sure your baking dish is hot when you pour the batter over the sausages. This helps the batter start cooking immediately, creating a crispy exterior while allowing it to rise beautifully.

• sausages - Substitute with vegetarian sausages: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausages which mimic the texture and flavor of meat sausages.

• sausages - Substitute with chicken sausages: For a lighter option, chicken sausages provide a similar taste with less fat.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the batter denser.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend to maintain a similar texture.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in batters.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk provides a creamy texture similar to cow's milk and is also dairy-free.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a vegan alternative that helps bind the batter.

• eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Use ¼ cup of applesauce per egg for a moist texture, suitable for a slightly sweeter batter.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds a different depth of flavor and umami, though use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct replacement for a slightly different mineral taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: For a spicier kick, though use less to avoid overpowering the dish.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil adds a richer flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a slight coconut flavor and is a good alternative for high-heat cooking.

• Allow the toad in the hole to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• For storing in the refrigerator:

  • Transfer the toad in the hole to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Place it in the refrigerator, where it can be stored for up to 3 days.
  • When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the toad in the hole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

• For freezing:

  • Cut the toad in the hole into individual portions for easier reheating.
  • Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
  • Label the container with the date and contents.
  • Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• Reheating from frozen:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Remove the toad in the hole portions from the freezer and unwrap them.
  • Place the portions in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  • Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier texture, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

• For a quicker reheating option, you can also use a microwave:

  • Place the frozen portion on a microwave-safe plate.
  • Cover with a microwave-safe cover or another plate to retain moisture.
  • Heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, checking and turning halfway through, until heated through. Note that the texture may be softer compared to oven reheating.

• To maintain the best quality, avoid refreezing previously frozen toad in the hole.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place the leftover toad in the hole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until the sausages and batter are warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the batter crisp up.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the toad in the hole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of vegetable oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the leftover toad in the hole in the skillet.
  4. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are heated and the batter is crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F).
  2. Place the toad in the hole in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
  4. This method will help keep the batter crispy while thoroughly heating the sausages.

• Oven: Used to preheat to 220°C (425°F) and bake the sausages and batter.

• Baking dish: Holds the sausages and batter while baking.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Helps to mix the batter ingredients until smooth.

• Measuring cup: Measures the flour and milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Measures the salt, pepper, and vegetable oil.

• Tongs: Used to handle the sausages when placing them in the baking dish.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when removing the hot baking dish from the oven.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while you gather and prepare your ingredients to save time.

Use a blender: Mix the batter in a blender for a smoother consistency and quicker preparation.

Pre-cook sausages: Cook the sausages partially in a microwave before baking to reduce oven time.

Measure ingredients ahead: Measure out the flour, milk, and spices in advance to streamline the process.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup and faster turnaround.