Delicious Baked Scotch Eggs Recipe – Perfect for Brunch!
Have you ever tried a classic British delicacy that is loved by many in the country? If not, then let me introduce you to one of Scotland’s most popular snacks – the baked Scotch eggs recipe. A scotch egg is essentially a hard-boiled egg that is coated with sausage meat and breadcrumbs before being baked to perfection.
This baked scotch eggs recipe is easy to make and is perfect for any occasion, be it a quick breakfast or a tasty appetizer. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make your own delicious and healthy scotch eggs right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
As a chef who specializes in British cuisine, I have tested and perfected this recipe to ensure that you get the best results every time. So whether you are new to British cuisine or an experienced cook looking for something new, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You know how sometimes you just need a little something extra to satisfy your taste buds? Well look no further, because this Baked Scotch Eggs recipe will give you exactly that! Trust me, you’ll love it.
First things first, let’s talk about the main ingredient: eggs. But not just any old egg – hard boiled eggs. They’re at the heart of it all, providing a satisfyingly soft and creamy center for the delicious sausage meat they’re covered in.
And speaking of sausage meat, the recipe calls for a combination of pork sausage and ground turkey – a match made in heaven. The spices used (rubbed sage, clove, thyme, pepper) complement the flavor perfectly and are sure to satisfy your hunger with every bite.
But what really sets this recipe apart is how those perfect hard boiled eggs are wrapped in the seasoned sausage meat mixture and baked to golden perfection. By baking instead of frying these scotch eggs, you’ll avoid an oily mess and have a healthier result without sacrificing any taste.
One thing to keep in mind is that you can also substitute the pork sausage for other meats or minced meat to adjust the flavor according to your own preferences. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try adding some Jamie Oliver-style corn flakes or fried egg on top to really take things up a notch.
All in all, this Baked Scotch Eggs recipe is a winner for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s versatile, flavorful and above all else, satisfying. You won’t regret giving it a go!
Ingredient List
Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious baked Scotch eggs recipe. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 6 hard-boiled eggs
- 1/2 pound of pork sausage meat from your local co-op or British shop
- 1/2 teaspoon of rubbed sage
- 1/2 teaspoon of thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion salt
- 1/2 cup of flour
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
- 3/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- Oil spray for baking
This recipe also allows for variations and substitutions, such as using ground turkey or beef in place of pork sausage meat. Additionally, herbs like clove can be added to bring out more flavor. Be sure to check ahead that you have all the ingredients before starting the recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to start cooking these delicious baked scotch eggs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make them:
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F and place a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Boil the eggs
Place 4 hard-boiled eggs in a pot of boiling water and let them cook for 8 minutes, then transfer them to ice-cold water immediately.
Step 3: Mix the sausage and ingredients
In a large bowl, mix 1 lb of ground pork sausage, 1 tsp rubbed sage, 1 tsp thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
Step 4: Roll the sausage meat
Divide the mixture into four portions and flatten each portion into a thin patty shape. Place a boiled egg in the center of each sausage patty and roll until coated evenly.
Step 5: Coat with flour and breadcrumbs
Coat each sausage-rolled egg with egg flour then gently coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure that they are entirely covered to give you that crunchy exterior.
Step 6: Bake the scotch eggs
Place the coated eggs onto your lined baking tray and spray with oil. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. After which, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the tray briefly before serving.
There you have it, an easy yet fulfilling dish of baked scotch eggs! Serve these up at any occasion as an appetizer or snacks as they will be perfect for any meat lover.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about cooking is the endless opportunities for experimentation and creativity. With this baked Scotch eggs recipe, you can easily customize and make substitutions to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
First off, if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider swapping out the pork sausage for ground turkey or even Scottish-style ground beef. You can also try using minced meat instead of sausage meat or combine the two for a unique flavor. Another way to reduce the fat content is by using fewer breadcrumbs or opting for corn flakes instead.
For those who enjoy a bit more spice in their food, add some cayenne pepper or paprika to the sausage mixture. You can also season the egg flour with different herbs such as rosemary or parsley to add some extra layers of flavor.
If you prefer a softer yolk, switch out the hard-boiled eggs for soft-boiled ones instead. This variation will add another dimension to your dish with its runny yolks mixing with the sausage meat.
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some fried onions or bacon bits on top of your Scotch eggs before baking to give them that extra crunch and savory taste. The possibilities are endless with this recipe so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
No matter what substitutions and variations you make, following these simple steps will help ensure that your baked Scotch eggs turn out delicious every time.
Serving and Pairing
Baked scotch eggs are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. You can enjoy them hot, cold or at room temperature, making them an ideal dish for picnics, buffets or quick snacks. The warm and savory flavors of the sausage and spices wrapped around the boiled egg make for an exquisite taste sensation that is hard to resist.
When serving baked scotch eggs hot, I suggest slicing them in half and serving them on a bed of mixed greens with some mustard dipping sauce on the side. This would complement the richness of the egg and sausage meat perfectly.
Alternatively, you can enjoy it with some baked beans, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread for a more substantial meal. This classic British pairing will give you a filling and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling happy and satisfied.
If you’re looking to enjoy baked scotch eggs cold, they make a great addition to any lunchbox alongside some fresh veggies or fruit. They’re also perfect as part of a charcuterie board or served as appetizers at your next gathering.
Some popular drink pairings for baked scotch eggs include beer or wine. A crisp and cold lager or ale would cut through the rich flavors of the dish perfectly. Alternatively, a nice red wine such as a merlot or pinot noir would bring out the warmth of the spices and sausage meat.
In conclusion, baked Scotch eggs are a classic British recipe that offers versatility in both serving and pairing options. Whether you decide to serve them hot or cold, pairing them with complementary dishes and drinks will enhance their flavors and elevate your dining experience to new heights!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now, you may be wondering if these baked Scotch eggs can be made ahead of time or if they freeze well. The simple answer is yes, they can!
To make-ahead, simply prepare the recipe as usual up until the point of baking. Once you’ve formed your sausage patties around your hard-boiled eggs and coated them in flour and breadcrumbs, you should layer them on a lined baking tray and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate them for up to 24 hours until you’re ready to bake.
When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit on the counter for about half an hour to come closer to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 400°F and then bake according to the original recipe directions.
If you’re looking to store any leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them once more, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for around 15 minutes or until they are warmed through.
For freezing, it’s recommended that you do this before baking, rather than after. You can use freezer-safe containers or bags and separate your Scotch eggs with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, allow them to defrost completely and then follow the reheating directions above.
Overall, these baked Scotch eggs are a great option for meal prepping or making ahead for a party or event. They also make for delicious leftovers that can easily be reheated!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making baked Scotch eggs, there are a few tips that will ensure the perfect results every time.
Firstly, make sure you have all the ingredients ready and at room temperature before beginning the cooking process. This will help with even distribution of flavors and allow the dish to cook thoroughly.
It’s critical to use quality ingredients when making scotch eggs. Choose fresh eggs and high-quality sausage meat, as these will be the star of the show. I recommend using a combination of ground turkey and pork sausage to create a delicious and healthy twist. Scottish ground beef is another excellent option if you’re looking for a unique flavor profile.
Make sure you don’t overcook the eggs before placing them in the sausage patty-shaped coating. If they’re overcooked, they may fall apart when rolled in sausage meat or become dry while baking in the oven. Soft boiled or hard boiled both work well, just ensure that you cook them for precisely the right amount of time based on your preference.
To help prevent sticking during baking, line your baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some oil spray.
Lastly, for an added layer of crunch, try replacing bread crumbs with corn flakes in your egg flour coating mixture. This method was popularized by renowned Chef Jamie Oliver and offers an exciting twist on an old favorite.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create a batch of perfect baked Scotch eggs that are flavorful, moist, and full of protein.
FAQ
Now that you have learned everything about the recipe and various ways you can customize it, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions (FAQs). These FAQs may assist you in your preparation process or clarify any doubts that might arise while cooking. So, let’s get started with the FAQs!
How long to heat scotch eggs in oven?
Alrighty, let’s get started by heating up the oven to Gas Mark 5/190°C/fan oven 170°C/325°F. Place those eggs on a baking sheet and pop ’em in the oven for a solid 25-30 minutes, or until they are perfectly golden brown – just the way we want ’em. Once those beauties are finished, let them cool down before serving them up for everyone to enjoy.
Why do my scotch eggs split in the oven?
To avoid the dreaded scenario of hard boiled eggs peeking through the sausage meat, adequate covering is vital. Ensure that the sausage meat mixture thoroughly covers the eggs with an even application. Another useful tip is to refrigerate the eggs for 10-20 minutes prior to baking, as this will allow the sausage meat to set and adhere properly.
What is traditionally served with scotch eggs?
In British cuisine, a classic dish known as Scotch Eggs involves the combination of hard-boiled eggs enveloped in flavorful sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs and then deep-fried. A delectable mustard dipping sauce often accompanies the dish, making it a beloved staple in British culture.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for scotch eggs?
For a delightful crispy texture, skip the traditional bread crumbs and choose interesting substitutes like almond flour, almond meal, crushed pork rinds or coconut flour. To take it up a notch, add some freshly grated parmesan cheese for added flavor. Another idea to consider is trying out air fryer scotch eggs which will make them extra crispy and more delicious.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, baked Scotch eggs are one of the most delicious and hearty British dishes you can make at home. With a crispy outer layer and a soft-boiled egg inside, they are the perfect snack or main course. They are also incredibly versatile, allowing for variations with different types of meats, spices and breading.
By following this recipe and using the tips and recommendations provided, you can create perfect baked Scotch eggs every time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for your family, this dish is sure to impress.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try and savor the unique flavors of British cuisine. And don’t forget to share your experience with us! Happy cooking!
Baked Scotch Eggs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lean pork or 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon clove
- 4 large eggs, hard boiled (not too large)
- flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fine dry breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Mix the meat thoroughly with the seasonings and divide into four equal portions.
- Have the four eggs hard boiled, for about 12 minutes.
- Peel them, dip them in water and coat them in flour.
- Wrap each egg evenly in a portion of meat, being sure they are covered completely.
- Beat the remaining egg.
- Dip each egg in the beaten egg then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
- Chill for one hour.
- Bake until golden brown on a cookie sheet at 400°F; about 30 minutes.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.