Cozy Up with a Delicious One-Pan Lancashire Hotpot

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty meal to cozy up with. One dish that truly embodies the spirit of comforting food is the traditional Lancashire Hotpot. This beloved British stew is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of rustic ingredients and simplicity. And the best part? You can prepare it all in just one pan!

What is Lancashire Hotpot?

Originating from the Lancashire region in northwest England, this dish typically features a rich, flavorful base of lamb, slow-cooked to perfection alongside onions and root vegetables. The crowning glory of the hotpot is its golden layer of sliced potatoes, baked until crisp and tender. This one-pan wonder is loved for its depth of flavor and its ability to bring families together around the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this warming delight, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 cups (720ml) beef or lamb stock
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Lamb

1. In a large, heavy-based pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season the lamb chunks with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the lamb to the pan in batches, searing it on all sides until golden brown. Remove the lamb and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

3. In the same pan, add the sliced onions and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the seared lamb back to the pan along with the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes

5. Once simmering, arrange the sliced potatoes on top of the meat and vegetables, overlapping them slightly. Season the potatoes with a touch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Hotpot

6. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the hotpot cook gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors have mingled beautifully. For an extra crispy top, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

7. Once finished, serve your Lancashire Hotpot hot, straight from the pan. Pair it with crusty bread and a side of pickled red cabbage for a truly comforting meal that will warm your soul.

Why You’ll Crave This Dish

Not only is the Lancashire Hotpot a one-pan meal that saves on cleanup, but it’s also endlessly adaptable. Feel free to throw in any leftover vegetables you have in the fridge, or substitute the lamb with beef or even a vegetarian version using mushrooms and lentils. This dish is all about flexibility and embracing the flavors of home-cooked comfort.

As you savor every bite, you’ll understand why this classic dish has been a staple on British tables for centuries. So this autumn and winter, cozy up with your very own one-pan Lancashire Hotpot — it’s sure to become a recipe you’ll crave again and again!

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or something to warm you up on a chilly evening, this one-pan Lancashire Hotpot is sure to do the trick. With minimal fuss and maximal flavor, it’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also brings a sense of warmth and togetherness. So gather your loved ones, serve up this comforting dish, and enjoy the season of coziness!