Hairy Bikers Steak and Kidney Pudding Recipe

Discover the classic British delight with the Hairy Bikers' Steak and Kidney Pudding recipe, a hearty and comforting dish perfect for the colder months. This traditional recipe combines tender pieces of steak and kidney encased in a light suet pastry, offering a splendid fusion of textures and flavors. The slow-cooked filling is what makes this pudding stand out, with beef and lambs' kidney melding together under a rich, earthy sauce that perfectly complements the pastry.

Ingredients for the Steak and Kidney Pudding

For the suet pastry:

• 500g strong bread flour
• 250g suet
• 10g salt
• 350ml water
• 25g baking powder
• Butter for greasing
• Flour for dusting

For the filling:

• 2kg oxtail (a luxurious alternative to traditional braising steak)
• 200g veal kidney, diced
• 1 bottle red wine
• Finely chopped vegetables: 1 carrot, 1 onion, 1 celery stalk
• 1000ml chicken stock
• Fresh thyme, garlic, chestnut mushrooms, sliced onions
• Pommery mustard, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, Maldon salt, black pepper

Preparation Instructions

1. Start with the suet pastry by combining flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in the suet and gradually add water to form a dough. Let it rest overnight in the fridge.
2. Roll out the dough, grease pudding bowls with butter, dust with flour, and line them with pastry discs.
3. Sear the oxtail and deglaze the pan with red wine. Cook the vegetables until soft, add stock, thyme, and garlic, and simmer with the oxtail.
4. Assemble the pudding by filling the pastry-lined bowls with the oxtail mixture, adding diced veal kidney, and sealing with pastry lids. Steam the puddings until cooked through.

Storage and Reheating

Steak and kidney pudding is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a steamer or oven until thoroughly warm.

Nutritional Information

This dish is rich in protein and iron, thanks to the beef and kidneys. However, it's also high in fat due to the suet pastry, making it a more indulgent choice.

FAQ about the Steak and Kidney Pudding

• Can I substitute the meats? Yes, while oxtail and veal kidney are recommended for a luxurious touch, you can use traditional braising steak and lambs' kidney.
• Is it possible to make this vegetarian? This specific dish relies heavily on the flavors from the meat and offal, making it challenging to create a vegetarian version without losing the essence of the dish.

For a complete guide to making this sumptuous dish, refer to the original recipe by the Hairy Bikers, ensuring you capture the essence of this British culinary treasure.