Scotch Egg Recipe
Scotch eggs are a delightful British classic, perfect for picnics, brunches, or simply as a savory snack. This recipe features hard-boiled eggs enveloped in seasoned sausage meat, all encased in a crispy breadcrumb coating. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a satisfying bite that is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this Scotch Egg Recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Scotch Egg Recipe is not just about indulging your taste buds; it’s about the joy of creating something special at home. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and the satisfaction of biting into that perfectly cooked egg surrounded by flavorful sausage. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for gatherings or meal prep. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, these eggs are perfect for any occasion.
What You’ll Gather
- 8 large eggs – The star of the show; these provide the rich, creamy center.
- 1 pound pork sausage – The base for your flavorful filling.
- 1 small yellow onion – Peeled and finely grated for added moisture and sweetness.
- 1 clove garlic – Finely grated to infuse the sausage with aromatic goodness.
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley – For a fresh herbaceous note.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – To enhance the flavor of the sausage.
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard – Adds a tangy kick to the mixture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – This will help the breadcrumbs stick during frying.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – For that deliciously crunchy exterior.
- Neutral flavored oil – For deep frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point.
- Coarse sea salt and fresh cracked pepper – To season your Scotch eggs to perfection.
Equipment at a Glance
- Large pot – For boiling the eggs.
- Mixing bowl – To combine the sausage mixture.
- Frying pan or deep fryer – For frying the Scotch eggs.
- Slotted spoon – To remove the eggs from the boiling water.
- Meat thermometer – Optional, for checking the oil temperature.
Scotch Egg Recipe in Steps
Step 1: Boil the Eggs
Start by placing the 8 large eggs in a pot and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for 9-10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of pork sausage, the finely grated small yellow onion, 1 clove of grated garlic, 3 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard. Season with coarse sea salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Peel the Eggs
Once the eggs are done cooking, transfer them to an ice bath to cool for a few minutes. This will make peeling easier. Once cooled, gently peel the eggs and set them aside.
Step 4: Encase the Eggs
Divide the sausage mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand and wrap it around each egg, making sure to cover the egg completely.
Step 5: Dredge the Eggs
Prepare your dredging station with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, and a bowl of beaten egg (optional, for extra coating). Roll each sausage-wrapped egg in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of neutral flavored oil to 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Fry the Scotch Eggs
Carefully place the Scotch eggs into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding. Fry for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the Scotch eggs from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Customize for Your Needs
- Add spices such as cayenne pepper or paprika to the sausage mixture for a kick.
- Swap out pork sausage for chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Incorporate cheese, like cheddar or feta, into the sausage mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Try using different herbs, such as thyme or chives, to match your personal taste.
Mistakes That Ruin Scotch Egg Recipe
- Overcooking the eggs can lead to a rubbery texture. Stick to the recommended boiling time.
- Not cooling the eggs properly before peeling can result in a mess when removing the shells.
- Failing to season the sausage mixture adequately can lead to bland Scotch eggs.
- Overcrowding the frying pan can cause uneven cooking and a soggy exterior.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Scotch eggs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste great cold or can be reheated in an oven for a few minutes. For meal prep, consider making a batch on the weekend to enjoy throughout the week. They make for a satisfying lunch or snack on the go!
Reader Q&A
Can I bake Scotch eggs instead of frying them?
Yes! For a healthier alternative, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Just make sure to spray them with a little oil to help them crisp up.
What can I serve with Scotch eggs?
Scotch eggs pair beautifully with a side of mustard, pickles, or a fresh salad. They also work well as part of a charcuterie board!
Can I freeze Scotch eggs?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked Scotch eggs. Just ensure they are fully cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated from frozen.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and browns in about 60 seconds, your oil is ready for frying.
Cook This Next
- Homemade Sausage Rolls – Another classic finger food that’s perfect for gatherings.
- Mini Quiches – A delightful bite-sized treat that’s easy to customize.
- Deviled Eggs – A twist on the traditional egg dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Perfect for appetizers and can be filled with various ingredients.
That’s a Wrap
Scotch eggs are not only a treat, but they also bring a bit of British culinary tradition to your table. With this Scotch Egg Recipe, you can create a delicious snack that is both satisfying and versatile. Whether you enjoy them at a picnic, as part of a brunch spread, or as a hearty snack, these Scotch eggs are sure to delight. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the process of making this timeless dish. Happy cooking!
Scotch Egg Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the 8 large eggs in a pot and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for 9-10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of pork sausage, the finely grated small yellow onion, 1 clove of grated garlic, 3 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard. Season with coarse sea salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Once the eggs are done cooking, transfer them to an ice bath to cool for a few minutes. This will make peeling easier. Once cooled, gently peel the eggs and set them aside.
- Divide the sausage mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion in your hand and wrap it around each egg, making sure to cover the egg completely.
- Prepare your dredging station with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, and a bowl of beaten egg (optional, for extra coating). Roll each sausage-wrapped egg in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
- In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of neutral flavored oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the Scotch eggs into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding. Fry for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the Scotch eggs from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Add spices such as cayenne pepper or paprika to the sausage mixture for a kick.
- Swap out pork sausage for chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Incorporate cheese, like cheddar or feta, into the sausage mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Try using different herbs, such as thyme or chives, to match your personal taste.
