Yorkshire pudding is a classic British side dish, and when it comes to hearty, comforting recipes, the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, is a go-to source for many home cooks. This light and airy pudding, made from a simple batter and cooked in hot drippings, is the perfect accompaniment to a Christmas feast, especially alongside a succulent prime rib. Let’s explore a Yorkshire pudding recipe that captures the Pioneer Woman’s approachable style and guarantees to impress your holiday guests.
Pioneer Woman Yorkshire Pudding Recipe
This recipe is inspired by classic Yorkshire pudding techniques, aiming for that signature light and crispy texture that makes it irresistible. It’s designed to be straightforward, just like Ree Drummond’s recipes, ensuring even beginner bakers can achieve perfect results.
Ingredients:
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Drippings from Prime Rib (about 1/2 cup or more)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-and-half until well combined.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Sifting ensures a light and airy pudding by preventing lumps.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the egg mixture, whisking continuously until you have a smooth batter. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Refrigerate: Cover the batter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender Yorkshire pudding.
- Preheat Oven & Muffin Pan: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Pour a generous amount of prime rib drippings (about 1/2 cup total, or approximately 1-2 teaspoons per muffin cup) into each cup of a standard muffin pan. Place the muffin pan in the hot oven to heat the drippings until they are very hot and just about to smoke. This hot fat is key to getting the puddings to rise.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Carefully remove the hot muffin pan from the oven. Quickly and evenly pour the chilled batter into each muffin cup, filling them about 1/2 to 2/3 full.
- Bake: Return the muffin pan to the hot oven and bake for 13-14 minutes, or until the Yorkshire puddings are puffed up, golden brown, and crisp around the edges. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 10 minutes of baking to ensure they rise properly.
- Serve Immediately: Once baked, remove the Yorkshire puddings from the oven and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh, alongside prime rib and your favorite gravy or au jus.
Perfect Pairing: Prime Rib
Yorkshire pudding is traditionally served with roast beef, and prime rib is a truly special choice for a holiday meal. The rich drippings from the prime rib are essential for giving Yorkshire puddings their distinctive flavor and crispy texture. For a complete Pioneer Woman-inspired Christmas feast, consider pairing this Yorkshire pudding recipe with a perfectly cooked prime rib roast.
Enjoy creating this classic side dish for your next holiday gathering. This Yorkshire pudding recipe, inspired by the warmth and approachability of the Pioneer Woman, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
