Silly Hash: A Nostalgic Favourite, Reinvented for Spring & Summer

There’s something about the meals we grew up with that never really leaves us. The ones that filled the kitchen with warmth, brought everyone to the table without being asked, and somehow tasted even better the next day.

For us, that dish is corned beef hash. 🥰

Back in the 1980s, it was a proper midweek staple. Mum would have it bubbling away ready for when we got in from school — simple, hearty, and exactly what you needed after a long day. No fuss, no fancy ingredients, just good food that worked.

Fast forward to today, and while so much has changed, this recipe hasn’t — not really.

The Twist That Made It a Staple Again
The only thing we’ve added is a generous tablespoon of Calder’s Kitchen Sillylilli.

That sharp, tangy kick cuts through the richness perfectly, lifting what was already a comforting classic into something brighter, fresher — and, dare we say, even better suited to lighter spring and summer meals.

It’s still hearty enough to satisfy, but with a zing that makes it feel less heavy, more vibrant. The kind of dish you can enjoy year-round.

From Family Table to Festival Favourite
A few years ago, we started sharing this recipe at farmers’ markets and festivals — and the response has been incredible.

People come back to tell us it’s become a regular in their homes too. Some have kept it exactly the same, others have made it their own. That’s the beauty of recipes like this — they evolve, but they still carry the same wholesome feeling.

Make It Your Way
“Silly Hash” is as easy as it gets:

Best slow-baked in the oven for that rich, comforting texture. 

Perfect in the slow cooker if you want to leave it to do its thing and you can finish it off in the oven or air fryer if you want that crispy topping!

Easily adapted for a meat-free version using Quorn mince (our “Quorned Beef Hash” is a favourite among the vegetarians in the Calder family) 🌱

It’s not about perfection — it’s about something reliable, adaptable, and genuinely enjoyable to eat.

Why These Recipes Still Matter
In a world of fast food and endless choice, there’s something grounding about going back to the basics. Recipes like this remind us that good food doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to be made with care (and, in our case, a spoonful of something a bit special).

So whether you’re recreating a childhood favourite or starting a new tradition of your own, Silly Hash is one of those dishes that just works.

Share your own favourite family recipes from yesteryear and try adding a modern day twist by including your favourite Calder's flavour.