Introduction
Sausage rolls are a delightful savory treat that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a comforting snack. With a delicious filling of seasoned pork, bacon, and aromatic vegetables, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry, they are sure to please anyone’s palate. This article will break down the ingredients and provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating these mouthwatering sausages rolls at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Filling:
– 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small brown onion, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 150g (5 oz) streaky bacon, finely minced
– 2 teaspoons fennel seeds, toasted (optional)
– 500g (1 lb) pork mince (ground pork), not lean
– 3/4 cup (40g) panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Black pepper, to taste
Baking & Serving:
– 2 1/2 sheets puff pastry, thawed and each cut into half
– 1 egg, lightly whisked
– Ketchup or tomato sauce, for serving
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes (including cooling and refrigeration)
Yield: 8 party-sized rolls or 4 larger rolls
Enjoy making these delicious sausage rolls and serving them warm with your favorite sauce!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and finely chopped celery for 2 minutes. Add the finely minced streaky bacon and cook for an additional 2 minutes without allowing the bacon to brown. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
To the cooled mixture, add the toasted fennel seeds (if using), pork mince, panko breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well using your hands until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lay out a rectangle of puff pastry with the long edge facing you. Brush one long edge with the lightly whisked egg.
Step 5: Shape the Filling
Take one-fifth of the filling and shape it into a compact log along the center of the pastry, ensuring there are no gaps in the meat.
Step 6: Roll the Pastry
Roll the pastry over the filling, sealing it with the egg-brushed edge facing down, and place the roll seam-side down. Repeat this process with the remaining pastry and filling.
Step 7: Chill the Rolls (Optional)
If time allows, refrigerate the rolls for 1 hour to make cutting easier and the presentation neater.
Step 8: Cut the Rolls
Cut each log into four equal pieces for party-sized rolls or two pieces for larger rolls.
Step 9: Prepare for Baking
Place the rolls on two baking trays lined with baking paper. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.
Step 10: Bake the Rolls
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, swapping the trays between shelves at the 20-minute mark, until the pastry is deep golden brown. Note: The filling may appear pink due to the bacon, but it will be cooked through.
Step 11: Serve
Allow the sausage rolls to cool slightly on the trays. Serve warm with ketchup or tomato sauce.
Notes
Note on Fennel Seeds
Toasting fennel seeds is optional but can enhance the flavor of the filling.
Note on Bacon Pinkness
The filling may retain a pink hue due to the bacon; ensure it is fully cooked before serving.
Note on Puff Pastry Handling
Ensure the puff pastry is adequately thawed and handled gently to avoid tearing.
Note on storage
Leftover sausage rolls can be refrigerated and reheated; they are best enjoyed fresh.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat to sauté garlic, onion, and celery. This technique enhances the flavors by releasing their natural oils and sugars.
Mixing
Combine the filling ingredients by using your hands to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures. This technique helps to bind the mixture together effectively.
Rolling
Lay out the puff pastry and shape the filling into a compact log before rolling it up. This technique ensures a tight seal and prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.
Chilling
Refrigerate the rolls for 1 hour before cutting. This technique firms up the pastry, making it easier to cut neatly and ensuring a good shape.
Baking
Bake the rolls in a preheated oven, swapping the baking trays to ensure even cooking. This technique promotes a uniform golden brown color and crispy texture.
FAQ
Can I use lean pork mince instead of fatty pork mince?
Using lean pork mince may affect the moisture and flavor of the filling, as fat contributes to the juiciness and richness of the sausage rolls.
What if I don’t have fennel seeds?
Fennel seeds are optional. You can omit them altogether or substitute them with another spice that you prefer, such as anise or a bit of Italian seasoning.
How do I know when the sausage rolls are done baking?
The sausage rolls should be a deep golden brown color on the outside. The filling may appear pink due to the bacon, but it will be fully cooked through.
Can I freeze the filled rolls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the filled and shaped rolls. Just ensure they are well-sealed and wrapped. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with the sausage rolls besides ketchup?
Besides ketchup, you can serve them with mustard, barbecue sauce, or a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor.
Conclusion
The savory combination of pork, bacon, and aromatic vegetables wrapped in flaky puff pastry results in a delightful appetizer perfect for gatherings or as a comforting snack. These sausage rolls are easy to prepare and offer a delicious balance of flavors and textures that is sure to please any crowd.
Herbed Chicken Rolls
Substitute the pork and bacon with ground chicken and add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a lighter option.
Vegetable & Cheese Pastry Rolls
Use a mix of finely chopped vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers, combined with ricotta or feta cheese for a vegetarian adaptation.
Spicy Chorizo Rolls
Incorporate finely diced chorizo into the filling for a spicy and flavorful twist on the classic sausage roll.
Beef & Mushroom Rolls
Replace the pork mince with ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor profile.
Sweet Potato & Black Bean Rolls
For a vegan version, use mashed sweet potatoes and black beans as a filling, seasoned with cumin and paprika for extra warmth.
Cheesy Jalapeño Rolls
Mix in diced jalapeños and shredded cheese with the pork mince to create a spicy kick in every bite.
Curried Lamb Rolls
Use ground lamb flavored with curry powder, adding peas and raisins for an exciting fusion of flavors.
