26 Nov 2025
Cook time 105 min
Prep time 50 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
2 onions
1 leek
5 potatoes
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Welsh onion cake is a hearty, traditional dish from Wales that combines layers of thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and leeks, all enriched with butter and topped with parmesan cheese. This comfort food is perfect for a cozy meal or as a side dish for a special dinner. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a beloved classic. Let's get cooking!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and thinly slice the onions.
- Clean the leek thoroughly, removing any dirt. Slice the leek thinly.
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes.
2. Cook the Onions and Leek:
- In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup (55g) of the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and leek to the skillet, cooking them until they are soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and distribute the heat evenly. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Potatoes:
- While the onions and leek are cooking, place the potato slices in a pot of salted water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until they are just tender but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes and set aside.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) round baking dish with a small amount of the remaining butter.
- Arrange a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread a portion of the cooked onion and leek mixture over the potato layer.
- Repeat these layers, alternating between potatoes and the onion-leek mixture, until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Add Butter and Cheese:
- Dot the top layer of potatoes with the remaining 1/4 cup (55g) of butter, cut into small pieces.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake the Cake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve:
- Let the Welsh Onion Cake cool slightly before serving. This will help it to set and make it easier to slice.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a main course.
Tips:
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the potatoes evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Opt for a combination of white and yellow onions for a deeper flavor profile.
- You can substitute the parmesan cheese with cheddar or another cheese of your choice for a different taste.
- Make sure to season each layer of potatoes and onions with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- If you want a crispier top, you can broil the cake for the last few minutes of baking.
Welsh onion cake is a delightful mixture of simple ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and comfort. The buttery layers of potatoes, onions, and leeks, combined with the savory touch of parmesan cheese, make it irresistible. Whether you serve this as a main course or a side dish, it is sure to be a hit among your family and friends. Enjoy this traditional Welsh recipe and bring a piece of Wales into your kitchen!