Ploughman’s Lunch




Ploughman’s Lunch is a traditional British cold meal that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s typically a hearty, rustic platter featuring a variety of cold ingredients. Here’s how to prepare a classic Ploughman’s Lunch:

Ploughman’s Lunch Recipe

Ingredients:

  • Cheese:

    • A generous portion of English cheese, such as Cheddar, Stilton, or a local variety (about 2-3 oz per person).
  • Bread:

    • Crusty bread or rolls (such as a baguette, sourdough, or farmhouse bread).
  • Pickles:

    • Pickled onions, Branston pickle, or pickled gherkins.
  • Cold Cuts (optional):

    • Slices of ham, salami, or other cold meats.
  • Vegetables:

    • Cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and radishes.
  • Salad:

    • A small mixed salad with lettuce, cucumber, and radishes.
  • Additional Accompaniments:

    • Boiled eggs (one per person, peeled and halved).
    • Apple slices or pickled beetroot.
    • Butter or margarine for spreading on the bread.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:

    • Cheese: Cut the cheese into wedges or slices.
    • Bread: Slice the bread or rolls into chunks or individual servings.
    • Pickles: Arrange pickled onions, gherkins, or Branston pickle in small bowls.
    • Cold Cuts: If using, arrange slices of ham or other cold meats.
  2. Prepare Vegetables:

    • Vegetables: Slice cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and radishes. Arrange them on a platter.
    • Salad: Prepare a small mixed salad with lettuce, cucumber, and radishes.
  3. Prepare Boiled Eggs:

    • Boil Eggs: Place eggs in a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and place in cold water to cool. Peel and halve before serving.
  4. Assemble the Platter:

    • On a large serving platter or individual plates, arrange the cheese, bread, pickles, cold cuts, vegetables, and salad.
    • Add boiled egg halves and any additional accompaniments like apple slices or pickled beetroot.
  5. Serve:

    • Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Tips:

  • Variety: Feel free to mix and match cheeses, breads, and pickles based on your preference.
  • Presentation: A well-arranged platter looks more appealing, so arrange the items neatly on the serving dish.
  • Accompaniments: Adding fruit like apple slices or a small dish of pickled beetroot can enhance the flavors and make the meal more substantial.

Ploughman’s Lunch is a versatile and customizable meal that’s perfect for a casual lunch or a picnic. Enjoy creating your own version!