As the grand estate of Downton Abbey settles into its new life as a museum, fans of the beloved TV show are still indulging in the opulent atmosphere and memorable characters. But what’s often overlooked is the culinary magic that takes place behind the scenes. From the perfectly flaky pastry crusts to the rich flavors of the Crawfish Étouffée, the kitchen at Downton Abbey was always a hub of activity. In this article, we’ll delve into 19 elegant recipes inspired by the show, from classic Yorkshire pudding to decadent Beef Wellington. Whether you’re a fan of the show or just love good food, these dishes are sure to transport you back to the golden age of elegance and refinement.
Mrs. Patmore’s Perfect Yorkshire Pudding
Mrs. Patmore’s Perfect Yorkshire Pudding
A classic British dessert that pairs perfectly with a hearty roast dinner, Mrs. Patmore’s Yorkshire Pudding recipe is a staple of any English kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup whole milk
- Egg, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add the vegetable oil and whisk until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in the milk and whisk until smooth batter forms.
- Heat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Brush a 12-cup muffin tin with beaten egg.
- Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Downton Abbey Crawfish Étouffée
Inspired by the opulence of Downton Abbey, this crawfish étouffée recipe is a taste of luxury. This classic Louisiana dish is elevated with rich flavors and tender crawfish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crawfish tails
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and crawfish tails. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook for 10-12 minutes or until crawfish are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lady Mary’s Afternoon Tea Scones
A classic English recipe fit for a countess, these tender scones are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea and a spot of crumpets.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in heavy cream and beaten egg; stir until dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface; gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter.
7. Place scones on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lord Grantham’s Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce
Lord Grantham’s Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce: A Classic Downton Abbey-Inspired Recipe
This classic roast beef recipe, inspired by the aristocratic tastes of Lord Grantham from the hit TV series Downton Abbey, is sure to impress your family and friends. With a flavorful horseradish sauce to complement the tender roast beef, this dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs (1.4 kg) prime rib roast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup (250 ml) horseradish sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the roast beef with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the roast in a roasting pan and roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing thinly.
5. Serve with horseradish sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on roast size.
Downton Abbey-inspired Beef Wellington
Inspired by the grandeur of Downton Abbey, this classic dish is a staple of fine dining. With its tender beef, flaky pastry, and rich mushroom duxelles, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef filet, trimmed
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
3. In a pan, sauté the mushroom duxelles in butter until fragrant.
4. Place the beef on a lightly floured surface and spread the mushroom mixture evenly over it, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll out the puff pastry to a large rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Place the beef in the center of the pastry, brush the edges with water, and roll the pastry over the beef, starting from one long side.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
8. Brush the top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mrs. Hughes’ Shepherd’s Pie
Mrs. Hughes’ Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. This recipe is a staple of British cuisine, made with tender lamb, flavorful vegetables, and a crispy mashed potato topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– Butter or oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the lamb until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. While the filling is cooking, prepare the mashed potato topping. Boil the diced potatoes until tender, then mash with butter or oil.
6. Transfer the filling to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Downton Abbey-style Lobster Thermidor
This classic French recipe is a staple of fine dining, and its rich flavors are sure to impress your guests at any Downton Abbey-inspired gathering. With succulent lobster meat smothered in a creamy cognac sauce and topped with a golden-brown crust, this dish is sure to transport you back to the opulent era of the early 20th century.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup cognac
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Combine lobster meat, cognac, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir gently.
4. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lady Edith’s Lemon Drizzle Cake
This classic recipe from Downton Abbey’s beloved Lady Edith Crawley is a sweet and tangy treat that’s sure to impress. With its moist lemon cake and sticky drizzle, it’s the perfect dessert for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 225g unsalted butter, softened
– 225g golden caster sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 250g self-raising flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20cm (8in) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in lemon zest and juice.
3. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt into the mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with a lemon glaze (recipe not included).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Downton Abbey Chicken à la King
This classic British dish is a staple of elegant entertaining, reminiscent of the lavish dinner parties held at Downton Abbey. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to low and add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mrs. Patmore’s Steak and Kidney Pie
A classic British comfort food dish, this hearty steak and kidney pie is a staple of the Downton Abbey kitchen, carefully crafted by Mrs. Patmore herself.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef steak and kidney mixture (beef suet or all-beef sausage works well)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the steak and kidney mixture until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the meat mixture into a pie dish, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Place the rolled-out pastry over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
7. Brush the top with beaten egg and cut a few slits for steam release.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Downton Abbey Trifle with Sherry
A classic English dessert fit for the Crawleys’ finest gatherings, this trifle combines rich flavors and textures to delight your guests. Layers of moist sponge cake, sweet sherry-soaked fruit, and creamy custard create a show-stopping centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup sherry (dry or sweet, to taste)
– 1 pound sponge cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup custard powder
– 2 cups whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and butter until stiff peaks form.
3. Dip cake cubes in sherry, then layer with fruit and whipped cream in a large serving dish.
4. Mix custard powder with milk; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
5. Pour custard over trifle; refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Tom Branson’s Irish Stew
This classic recipe is a staple of traditional Irish cuisine, just like the one served at Downton Abbey. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the beef cubes, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Gradually stir in the flour to prevent lumps.
4. Add the potatoes, peas and carrots, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Downton Abbey Clotted Cream Shortbread
Inspired by the opulence of Downton Abbey’s grand estate, this recipe for Clotted Cream Shortbread is a classic British treat that’s sure to impress. Rich and buttery, with a hint of clotted cream sweetness, these shortbread biscuits are perfect for serving at your next formal gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup clotted cream, chilled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Fold in clotted cream until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lady Cora’s French Onion Soup
A classic French soup that warms the heart and soul, Lady Cora’s French Onion Soup is a rich and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe honors the elegance of Downton Abbey’s lady-in-waiting.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add wine and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette and Gruyère cheese.
5. Place under the broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Downton Abbey-style Duck à l’Orange
Inspired by the elegant kitchens of Downton Abbey, this classic duck dish is a masterclass in simplicity and sophistication. With its bright orange glaze and succulent meat, it’s sure to impress even the most discerning guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Grand Marnier or other orange-flavored liqueur
– 1 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, Grand Marnier, and orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Season the duck with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard.
5. Place the duck in a roasting pan and brush with melted butter.
6. Roast the duck for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, baste the duck with the orange glaze.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on the size of your duck.
Mrs. Patmore’s Bread and Butter Pudding
This traditional English dessert is a staple of Downton Abbey, warmed by the hearth and served with love. Mrs. Patmore’s recipe for bread and butter pudding is a masterclass in comfort food, combining stale bread, sweet butter, and rich eggs to create a warm, gooey delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, melted butter, sugar, eggs, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
5. Serve warm, garnished with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Downton Abbey Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish, inspired by the opulent halls of Downton Abbey, is a hearty and flavorful beef stew that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Rich and comforting, it’s sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with the carrots and celery.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Lady Sybil’s Spiced Apple Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is a delightful accompaniment to crackers, toast, or as a condiment for grilled meats. With its perfect balance of spices and apples, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped apples (any variety)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine apples, onion, garlic, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Downton Abbey Smoked Salmon Canapés
Transport yourself to the opulent world of Downton Abbey with these elegant smoked salmon canapés, perfect for your next soiree or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 crackers (such as water crackers or wheat thins)
– 4 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, lemon juice, and paprika until smooth.
3. Arrange the crackers on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
5. Top each cracker with a piece of flaked smoked salmon.
6. Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crackers are lightly toasted and the cheese is set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
These bite-sized canapés are sure to impress your guests with their elegant simplicity and delicious flavor.
Summary
Experience the elegance and refinement of Downton Abbey through its mouthwatering recipes. From classic dishes like Yorkshire Pudding and Beef Wellington to decadent desserts like Trifle with Sherry, these elegant recipes are sure to impress. Inspired by the beloved characters from the hit TV show, each dish is a nod to the opulence and sophistication of the early 20th century. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for new inspiration in the kitchen, these Downton Abbey recipes are sure to delight.
