Two’s Company

Tsar-in-the-hole

FOR THE YORKSHIRE PUDDINGS

2 eggs, any size
80g flour
100ml milk, skimmed milk, or milk with a splash of water added
1–2tbsp oil, for baking

FOR THE BEEF STROGANOFF

1 rump steak (about 230g)
1tbsp oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 portabella mushrooms (about 200g total weight), sliced 1cm thick
1tsp flour
1 medium tomato, halved, deseeded and chopped
100ml stock
1tbsp brandy or dry sherry
90ml soured cream
chopped chives or fresh parsley, to garnish

Make the batter: for the airiest result, do this the day before, refrigerate and bring back to room temperature before using. If this doesn’t fit in with your plans, don’t worry. Whisk all the ingredients (not the oil), plus a pinch of salt, till smooth (about 1½ minutes) and set aside. Pour