English Ploughman's Pâté
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh and vibrant dishes that celebrate the season's bounty. One classic British dish that embodies the essence of spring is the Ploughman's Pâté. This hearty and flavourful spread is perfect for picnics, light lunches, or as a delicious appetiser. In this recipe, I will guide you through the steps to create the perfect Springtime British Ploughman's Pâté.
At the heart of the Ploughman's Pâté lies a rich tapestry of tastes and textures, a quintessentially British concoction that is as versatile as it is delicious. Traditional recipes often highlight the simplicity and robustness of rural English fare, making it a staple for those who appreciate the depth of flavour and comforting consistency. Typically fashioned from a blend of choice cheeses - Caerphilly being the most favoured - the pâté embodies a hearty base enriched with a melange of aromatic onions, fragrant apricot chutney and a symphony of herb like fresh chives. This culinary creation is not just about the ingredients but the method of marrying them together, resulting in a smooth, creamy spread that retains the essence of each component. As a dish, the Ploughman's Pâté transcends mere sustenance, serving as a homage to the pastoral life and the bountiful produce that the spring season unfurls. Its preparation is a deliberate act of cherishing the fruits of the land, crafted with care to bring forth a spread that's as fitting for a casual picnic as it is for an elegant starter. Whether slathered on rustic bread or paired with crisp vegetables, the pâté's versatility makes it a beloved feature of British cuisine, inviting one and all to revel in its rich, savoury excellence.
To embark on the journey of crafting the quintessential Springtime British Ploughman's Pâté, a curated selection of ingredients is paramount. The foundations of this rustic, yet refined spread are:
Ingredients
- 50g Cream Cheese
- 50g Grated Crumbly Cheese (example Caerphilly, Lancashire or Wensleydale)
- 50g Grated Double Gloucester or Red Leicester
- 4 Pickled Silverskin Onions (drained and finely chopped)
- 1tbsp Apricot Chutney
- 2tbsp butter melted
- 2tbsp fresh chives chopped
- Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning,
Then to serve, crusty bread, crackers, or a selection of fresh vegetables will complete the experience, offering various textures and tastes to complement the pâté. Before proceeding to the preparation stages, it is crucial to have these ingredients prepared and ready, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cooking process that pays homage to the essence of spring and the traditional English culinary heritage.
Method
- Begin by mixing together the cream cheese, grated red cheese, pickled silver skins, chutney and butter in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon mixture onto a sheet of greaseproof and roll up into a cylinder. Scrunch up the ends and pop in the freezer until the mixture is just firm.
- Spread the chopped fresh chives on a plate, then taking the cylinder of cheese, roll in the chives until evenly coated. Wrap up again this time in clingfilm and pop it in the fridge to chill.
- Slice pate into rounds and enjoy!
The cooling period, lasting no less than 2 hours, is not merely a pause in the process but a phase where flavours meld and mature, culminating in a pâté that’s ready to be the centrepiece of your springtime table.
The moment has arrived to unveil your English Ploughman's Pâté, now beautifully set and ready to delight. Serve it chilled, accompanied by a selection of crusty bread or crackers for example a crunchy Peter's Yard Sourdough Cracker, each offering a satisfying crunch against the smooth pâté. For a truly traditional spread, include a variety of pickles - cornichons or pickled onions - which provide a sharp contrast that cuts through the richness of the pâté perfectly. A handful of fresh, spring greens or cucumber slices add a refreshing crispness, rounding out the plate with a burst of colour and texture. This dish, now ready to be shared, encapsulates the essence of spring and the rustic charm of English cuisine. It invites guests to assemble their perfect bite, creating a culinary experience that celebrates the season's bounty and the simple joy of good food, thoughtfully prepared. Whether part of a leisurely lunch or as a starter for an evening meal, your Ploughman's Pâté is sure to be a memorable highlight, embodying the spirit of springtime dining.
If you make this dish, why not send me a picture on Instagram using the #acountrygirlskitchen so I can go over and show it some love.
I hope you all have a wonderful day.
*Chefs Kiss*
