Jimi Famurewa's leek bacon focaccia breakfast bake is a delicious savory bread pudding that combines crispy bacon, tender leeks, and golden eggs. This recipe, inspired by the Swansea breakfast at Bara in Peckham, reinvents nostalgic British flavors for a modern audience. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a hearty family meal, this bake is easy to prepare and packed with umami from Dijon mustard and mature cheddar.
Why You'll Love This Breakfast Bake
This dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting breakfast casserole that feels both rustic and refined. The focaccia soaks up a rich egg and milk mixture, creating a texture similar to French toast but with a savory twist. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet baby leeks, and sharp cheddar delivers a balanced flavor profile that will satisfy any palate.
Ingredients for the Perfect Bake
Here's what you'll need to recreate this leek bacon focaccia breakfast bake at home. All ingredients are available at Sainsbury's, but you can substitute with similar quality products.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rosemary and sea salt focaccia | 250g |
| Unsmoked air-dried streaky bacon | 220g |
| Baby leeks, finely sliced | 175g |
| Golden yolk free-range eggs | 6 |
| Jersey milk | 250ml |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tsp |
| Barber's mature cruncher cheese, grated | 100g |
| Black pepper | Pinch |
Step-by-Step Method
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/390°F/gas 6. Tear the focaccia into large bite-size pieces and spread them in a baking dish. Dry the bread in the oven for 3-4 minutes, then set aside.
Cook the bacon according to packet instructions, let it cool, and roughly chop. In a frying pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the sliced leeks with a pinch of black pepper for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Combine the dried bread, cooked leeks, and bacon in the baking dish. In a jug, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Dijon mustard. Pour this mixture over the bread and let it soak for 15 minutes. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top and bake for 35 minutes until golden and set.
Key Takeaways for a Perfect Bake
- Use day-old focaccia for better absorption; if fresh, dry it out in the oven first.
- Don't skip the soaking time – it ensures a custard-like texture.
- For extra crispiness, broil the top for the last 2 minutes.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted tomatoes for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic lies in the savory bread pudding technique. The eggs and milk create a rich custard that binds the ingredients, while the Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick that cuts through the richness. The mature cheddar provides a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the smoky bacon and sweet leeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this breakfast bake ahead of time?
Can I substitute the focaccia with other bread?
What can I serve with this breakfast bake?
This leek bacon focaccia breakfast bake is a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of gourmet to your morning table. Whether you're hosting brunch or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor and simplicity. Try it today and enjoy a taste of modern British comfort food.
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