The Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole is a culinary gem that marries the essence of traditional Welsh cooking with modern flair. Stemming from the beloved Glamorgan sausage—a vegetarian delicacy made from cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs—this casserole version elevates the dish into a heartwarming and savory treat perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners. As celebrated by the Hairy Bikers, renowned for their passion for great food, this dish showcases how timeless recipes can be rejuvenated for contemporary tastes while preserving their rich heritage.
What is Glamorgan casserole?
A Glamorgan casserole is a variation of Glamorgan sausages, which are vegetarian sausages made from cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. The sausages are shaped into patties and fried until golden and crisp, then baked in a rich tomato sauce with herbs and spices. The result is a cheesy and savory dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner or a Sunday lunch.
Why You Love this Recipe
- Tradition Meets Innovation: The Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole beautifully fuses traditional elements with modern twists.
- Culinary Heritage: This dish celebrates the rich culinary history of Wales.
- Reinvented Classics: It showcases how age-old recipes can be revamped for contemporary tastes.
- Hearty Flavors: Its robust, savory tastes are sure to delight a wide audience.
- Rich Ingredients: The combination of cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs ensures a comforting experience with every mouthful.
- Versatility: Ideal for both vegetarians and those seeking a tasty meat-free option.
What are the ingredients for Glamorgan casserole?
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- Butter
- Leeks
- Fresh soft white breadcrumbs
- Thyme leaves
- Eggs
- Caerphilly cheese or strong mature cheddar cheese
- Wholegrain or Dijon mustard
- Plain flour
- Vegetable oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Tomato paste
- Vegetable stock
- Bay leaf
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Instruction to Make Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole?
Here are the steps to make this recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the leek mixture
Melt the butter in a large frying pan over medium heat until foaming, then fry the leeks with a pinch of salt for about 10 minutes until soft. Leave to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the cheese mixture
In a large bowl, combine 200 grams of breadcrumbs, thyme, egg yolks, cheese, mustard, and a generous grinding of pepper. Stir in the fried leeks and any butter left in the pan. Season with salt and mix well using your hands.
Step 3: Shape the patties
Divide the cheese mixture into 12 equal portions and shape them into patties. You may find damp hands help, cleaning your hands every so often to stop them from sticking. Transfer to a baking tray lined with baking parchment and freeze for 10 minutes until firm, or chill for 30 minutes in the fridge.
Step 4: Coat the patties
While the patties are firming up, whisk the egg whites in a shallow bowl with a pinch of salt until lightly foamy. Put the flour and some of the remaining breadcrumbs onto separate plates. Coat each patty in flour, then egg white, then breadcrumbs.
Step 5: Fry the patties
Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the patties in batches, turning them gently every minute, for about 5 minutes, until golden and crisp all over. Add more oil between batches if needed. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt.
Step 6: Make the tomato sauce
In the same frying pan, cook the onion over medium heat until soft, about 15 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the tomato paste, vegetable stock, bay leaf, paprika, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Bake the casserole
Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas mark 4. Transfer the tomato sauce to an ovenproof dish and arrange the patties on top. Bake for 15 minutes until bubbling and hot.
How to Serve Glamorgan casserole?
You can serve Glamorgan casserole with some crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. You can also add some green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for some freshness and crunch. Enjoy!
How Do I Serve Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole?
The rich and savory flavors of Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole make it versatile for various accompaniments:
- Bread: A crusty loaf of bread or a serving of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sumptuous tomato sauce.
- Greens: A crisp, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. Alternatively, steamed vegetables or green beans almondine can be a delightful side.
- Wine Pairing: Consider a medium-bodied white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir, to complement the cheese and tomato flavors.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole
- Cheese Selection: While Caerphilly cheese is traditional, ensure whatever cheese you pick is well-aged to impart a stronger flavor.
- Breadcrumb Consistency: Opt for freshly made breadcrumbs as they offer a better texture compared to store-bought varieties.
- Leek Preparation: Clean leeks thoroughly by splitting them and rinsing them under cold water to remove any hidden dirt or grit.
- Tomato Sauce: For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting your tomatoes before making the sauce or adding a splash of red wine.
- Test for Seasoning: Before finalizing the casserole, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, ensuring the right balance of flavors.
How do I store Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole?
Store the Glamorgan Casserole in an airtight container or cover the casserole dish with cling film/plastic wrap. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Before freezing, ensure the casserole has cooled completely. Store in a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat Hairy Bikers Glamorgan Casserole?
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas mark 4. Place the casserole in an ovenproof dish and cover with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until hot throughout.
Microwave Method: Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Always ensure the casserole is piping hot before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese if I can’t find Caerphilly or mature cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute with other cheeses that melt well. Consider using gruyere, gouda, mozzarella, or fontina. The key is to opt for a cheese that has a strong and pronounced flavor to retain the dish’s character.
- Related: Mary Berry Venison Casserole
Can I prepare the Glamorgan Casserole in advance and bake it later?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. After assembling, cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold. If you wish to store it for longer, consider freezing the casserole, and then thawing it in the fridge overnight before baking.
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Final Words
Glamorgan casserole is a tasty and satisfying vegetarian dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. It’s a great way to use up some cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs, and enjoy a traditional Welsh meal. I hope you liked this recipe and will give it a try soon.
Let me know how it turns out in the comments below.
Thanks for reading!
