3 hours Ago By [email protected] (Hannah Giacardi)
For many, the Yorkshire pudding is the crowning glory of a roast dinner. Originally known as 'dripping pudding' or just 'batter', Britain's beloved Yorkies were traditionally served before the main course, smothered in gravy. Its purpose was to stave off hunger for those who couldn't splash out on large portions of meat.
The Yorkshire pudding, which got its name in 1747, was cooked on a fire beneath roasting meat. All the succulent meat juices would then drip into the batter and enhance its flavour and colour. Centuries later, Yorkshire puds are still a firm favourite in a British roast.
But the question of whether they should feature in a classic Christmas dinner still sparks debate across the nation. Now, former Royal butler Grant Harrold, who served King Charles and Queen Camilla for seven years, has set the record straight once and for all. So does Buckingham Palace serve Yorkshire puddings with their festive turkey? "I think the royals are quite traditional and if Yorkshire puddings aren't meant to be eaten with turkey, they won't have them.
So no, I don't see them having them with their Christmas dinner and the turkey," Harrold concludes. For those who do fancy Yorkshires with their feast regardless of Royal customs, Michelin-starred chef Jeff Baker, who has served dishes to the late Queen Elizabeth, has shared his expertise. Insisting on the importance of the 'freshest eggs possible', he revealed that the ultimate Yorkshire pudding must accompany a fantastic Topside or Sirloin Beef joint.
"There is no better accompaniment to an incredible Topside or Sirloin Beef joint than the traditional Yorkshire pudding," noted Jeff Baker. "The trick to creating a perfectly risen pud that is still crispy around the edges and soft in the middle is to ensure the fat is practically smoking before putting the batter in the trays.".
