Toad in the Hole (English Yorkshire Pudding with Pork Sausages)

Yield: 2 to 3 servings

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound sausages
1/3 cup water

In a food processor fitted with the steel blade or in a blender, blend flour, milk, eggs, salt and pepper for 5 seconds. Turn off the motor and with a rubber spatula, scrape down the sides of the container. Blend the batter for 20 seconds more, transfer it to a bowl and let it stand, covered with plastic wrap, for one hour.

In a skillet, combine sausages, pierced lightly with a needle, and water. Bring the water to a boil over moderately high heat and boil the sausages, turning them, until the water is evaporated. Saute the sausages, adding oil if necessary to keep them from sticking, for 7 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Transfer the sausages with a slotted spoon to a plate. Pour 3 tablespoons of fat from the skillet into an 8-inch square baking pan and heat the pan in a preheated 450 degree F oven for two minutes.

Stir the batter, pouring about 1/4 of the mix into the hot dish, being very careful. Bake for two minutes, or until it is set. Arrange the sausages on the batter, pour the remaining batter over them and bake the mixture for 15 minutes.

Reduce heat to 375 degrees F and bake or 10 to 15 minutes more, or until it is puffed and golden brown. Serve the dish immediately with hot English mustard, if desired.