Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding Recipe

If you love warm comfort food, you need the Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding Recipe. This classic dish comes from the North East of England. It is smooth, salty, and very filling.

I first tried this with a thick slice of ham. It was love at first bite! Many people call this “the hummus of the North.” Today, I will show you how to make Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding at home. It is cheap, easy, and so delicious.

What Makes This Pease Pudding Special

This recipe is special because it tastes like home. The Hairy Bikers are known for honest, hearty food. Their version of pease pudding is not fancy, but it is perfect. It uses yellow split peas and simple vegetables.

The texture is thick and creamy. It feels like a warm hug on a cold day. This dish is also very healthy and full of protein. It is a true British classic that everyone should try at least once.

Equipment List

• A large heavy-based saucepan or stockpot.
• A fine-mesh sieve for rinsing the peas.
• A wooden spoon for stirring.
• A blender or food processor (optional for extra smoothness).
• A sharp kitchen knife.
• A vegetable peeler.

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding Recipe
• Servings: 6 people
• Prep Time: 10 mins (plus soaking time)
• Cook Time: 90 mins
• Total Time: 100 mins
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: British
• Calories: 180 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding

• 500g yellow split peas (soaked overnight).
• 1 large onion, finely chopped.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced.
• 1 ham hock or a salty bacon joint.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
• 2 bay leaves.
• Salt and black pepper to taste.
• Water or vegetable stock (about 1.5 liters).

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Soak the Split Peas

Place your yellow split peas in a large bowl. Cover them with plenty of cold water. Leave them to soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This makes them cook much faster and more evenly.

2. Rinse and Drain

After soaking, pour the peas into a sieve. Rinse them well under cold running water. Keep washing until the water runs clear. This removes any extra starch or dust from the peas.

3. Prepare the Pot

Put the rinsed peas into a large saucepan. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots. Place the ham hock or bacon joint in the middle. The meat adds a wonderful salty flavor to the peas.

4. Add Herbs and Liquid

Pour in enough water or stock to cover everything by two inches. Drop in your bay leaves and dried thyme. Do not add salt yet. The ham hock is usually salty enough on its own.

5. Simmer the Mixture

Bring the pot to a boil. Turn the heat down to low. Let it simmer gently for about 90 minutes. Keep the lid slightly ajar. Stir it every now and then so it doesn’t stick.

6. Check the Peas

The peas are ready when they are very soft. They should start to fall apart and look mushy. If the pot gets too dry, add a splash more water. The mixture should be thick.

7. Remove the Meat and Herbs

Carefully take the ham hock out of the pot. Remove the bay leaves too. You can shred the meat and mix it back in later. Or, save the meat for a sandwich.

8. Mash or Blend

Use a wooden spoon to beat the peas into a thick paste. If you want it very smooth, use a blender. I like mine a little bit chunky for a rustic feel.

9. Season and Serve

Taste the pudding now. Add black pepper and a little salt if needed. Serve it warm with extra ham. It will thicken up more as it cools down on the plate.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Soak your peas: Skipping the soak makes cooking take much longer.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable stock instead of ham. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
• Check the water: Don’t let the pot run dry. Keep an eye on the liquid level.
• Add butter: Stir in a knob of butter at the end for a richer flavor.
• Spice it up: Some people like to add a pinch of mustard powder.
• Slow Cooker: You can make this in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours.

Interesting Facts About Pease Pudding

Pease pudding has been eaten in Britain for hundreds of years. There is even a famous nursery rhyme about it! In the past, it was often cooked in a cloth inside a pot of boiling water.

This was called a “pease porridge.” It was a staple food for sailors because split peas stay fresh for a long time. Today, it is most popular in the North of England, especially in Newcastle.

Perfect Dishes to Serve With Pease Pudding

This pudding is very versatile. The most traditional way to eat it is with Saveloy sausages. It is also amazing with a boiled ham joint. Many people spread it on thick slices of crusty bread.

You can serve it alongside a Sunday roast as a unique side dish. In the North East, it is often served in a “Ham and Pease Pudding Stottie” (a large, flat bread bun).

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: It freezes very well for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Heat it in a pan with a splash of water to loosen it.
• Microwave: Cover it and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180 kcal
Protein	12g
Fat	2g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	11g
Sodium	350mg

Health Benefits

The Ingredients for Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding are very healthy. Split peas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein. They are also packed with fiber, which helps your digestion.

This dish is low in fat but keeps you full for a long time. Because it uses simple, whole ingredients, it is much better for you than processed sides. It is a great way to eat more legumes.

FAQs about Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding Recipe

Can I make this recipe without soaking the peas?

Yes, you can, but it will take much longer to cook. It might take over two hours for the peas to become soft enough. Soaking is always recommended for the best texture.

What is the difference between pease pudding and hummus?

Hummus is made from chickpeas and tahini. Pease pudding is made from yellow split peas and usually flavored with ham stock. They look similar but have very different flavors.

Is pease pudding gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your stock cubes (if you use them) do not contain wheat. It is a safe and healthy option for many diets.

How do I make the texture less grainy?

The best way is to cook the peas until they are very mushy. After cooking, use a high-speed blender to puree the mixture. Adding a bit of butter also helps smooth it out.

Final Thoughts

Making the Hairy Bikers Pease Pudding Recipe is a great way to enjoy British history. It is a humble, tasty, and budget-friendly dish.

Whether you eat it on a sandwich or with a roast, it always hits the spot. I hope you enjoy cooking this cozy classic in your own kitchen!