Crumpets

I think that one of the best breakfasts has to be crumpets with melting butter. They are easy to make at home and the results are absolutely delicious. It is definitely worth giving a try.

Recipe - Makes 12

• 210g strong white bread flour
• 7g fast action dried yeast
• 1/3 tsp salt
• 1/2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1/3 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 175ml milk
• 85ml water
• Oil, for greasing

Put the flour in a mixing bowl and tip the yeast to one side and the salt, sugar and bicarbonate of soda to the other. Make a well in the centre and pour in the milk and water. Beat well with a wooden spoon to smooth and a batter of double cream consistency has been formed. Cover with clingfilm and place somewhere warm. Leave for 1 hour or until frothy and bubbly.

When the batter has risen, heat a frying pan over a medium heat. Lightly rub oil over the surface and oil the insides of four metal crumpet or egg rings. Place these in the pan.

Spoon 1 tbsp of the batter into each ring and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the surface is bubbly and almost set. Gently ease the crumpet from the ring, loosening it round the outside with a knife if needed. Flip the crumpet and cook for 1-2 minutes on the other side until browned. 

Remove them from the heat and serve warm, or leave to cool and reheat by toasting.