Masons Ploughmans To Share Recipe

Prepare pork pie

If using a whole pork pie, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. Slice the pie into 8–10 thick wedges so guests can take portions. Transfer slices to a serving board.

Arrange ham

Loosely fold or fan the honey roast ham slices and place them on the board in a few small piles so they’re easy to pick up.

Prepare boiled eggs

If eggs are not already boiled: place eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water by 1 inch, bring to a simmer for 9 minutes for firm yolks, then cool in an ice bath for 5 minutes. Peel and halve eggs. Sprinkle halved eggs with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper and place them on the board.

Cut the smoked Applewood cheddar into 8–10 wedges or 1–2 cm-thick slices. Arrange cheese pieces next to the meats leaving space for bread and condiments. Place softened butter in a small dish if you want guests to spread it on sourdough.

Slice the sourdough loaf into 1–1.5 cm-thick slices. Optionally, lightly toast a few slices so there is a choice of fresh and toasted bread. Arrange slices in a fan or stack on the board beside the cheese and meats.

Spoon the tomato chutney into a small bowl and place it on the board with a small spoon for spreading. Place cornichons or dill pickles in a separate small bowl or pile them next to the chutney. Put a small dish of English mustard on the board for added tang and heat.

Halve the cherry tomatoes and scatter them around the board with the mixed salad leaves. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the board and lightly grind black pepper over the eggs and tomatoes. Taste one slice of sourdough with butter and a smear of chutney to adjust salt/pepper if desired.

Select a large wooden board or platter. Arrange components in groups (pork pie, ham, cheese, sourdough, eggs, chutney, pickles) leaving visual gaps for easy picking. Keep condiments in small bowls. Provide forks, small knives, serving tongs, and plates. Serve at room temperature so flavors are at their best. Encourage guests to combine bites (cheese + chutney + bread, ham + pickle, pork pie + mustard).