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A classic British pub meal, this Ploughman's Lunch is a simple, hearty platter featuring sharp cheddar, savory ham, crusty bread, and tangy pickles. Perfect for a no-cook lunch, a casual gathering, or a rustic picnic.
For 4 servings
Cook the Hard-Boiled Eggs
Prepare the Platter Components
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A classic British pub meal, this Ploughman's Lunch is a simple, hearty platter featuring sharp cheddar, savory ham, crusty bread, and tangy pickles. Perfect for a no-cook lunch, a casual gathering, or a rustic picnic.
This British recipe takes 27 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 692.99 calories per serving with 38.97g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for lunch or supper or picnic.
Assemble the Ploughman's Lunch
Serve Immediately
Swap the cheddar for other classic British cheeses like Stilton for a pungent kick, or a creamy Wensleydale.
Instead of ham, use thick-cut roast beef, a slice of pork pie, or a savory Scotch egg.
Omit the ham and add extra cheese, a vegetarian pâté, or some hummus for a satisfying meat-free version.
While Branston is classic, feel free to use other chutneys like a sweet apple chutney or a spicy tomato relish.
The combination of cheese, ham, and eggs provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Cheddar cheese is an excellent source of calcium, a mineral vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as proper nerve and muscle function.
The crisp apple and crusty bread (especially if wholemeal) contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
The carbohydrates from the bread provide a ready source of energy, making this a satisfying and sustaining meal for lunch or supper.
A Ploughman's Lunch is a traditional British cold meal. It consists of bread, cheese, and pickles, often accompanied by ham, hard-boiled eggs, and apple. It's a staple of pub menus and is celebrated for its simple, rustic charm.
It can be a balanced meal, offering protein, carbohydrates, and fats. However, it can be high in sodium and calories depending on the portion sizes of cheese, ham, and butter. To make it healthier, use wholemeal bread, increase the amount of salad/apple, and be mindful of the portion sizes.
A typical serving of this Ploughman's Lunch contains approximately 700-850 calories, depending on the specific types of cheese, ham, and bread used. The majority of calories come from the cheese, bread, and ham.
You can prepare the components ahead of time. The eggs can be boiled and peeled a day in advance and stored in the fridge. However, it's best to assemble the platter just before serving to keep the bread from getting stale and the apples from browning.
If you can't find Branston pickle, a good quality piccalilli, a sweet apple chutney, or a tangy tomato relish would be excellent substitutes.
Traditionally, a Ploughman's is paired with a British real ale or a dry cider. A glass of crisp white wine or a simple sparkling water with lemon also works well.