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Delicious Air Fryer Sausage Rolls: A British Classic Reimagined

Sausage rolls are a beloved British snack, often enjoyed at parties, picnics, and over a cup of tea. Traditionally made with flaky pastry and savoury sausage filling, they’re the ultimate comfort food. However, the arrival of the air fryer has revolutionised the way we prepare these irresistible treats, offering a healthier and quicker way to enjoy this classic dish. In this article, we’ll explore how to make scrumptious air fryer sausage rolls that are bound to impress.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Sausage Meat: 500g of your favourite sausage meat or sausages, skinned
• Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (approximately 320g), thawed if frozen
• Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten with a splash of milk (for glazing)
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Add-ins: Chopped herbs (like parsley or thyme), grated cheese, or caramelised onions for extra flavour

Equipment

• Air Fryer: Ensure your air fryer has a basket or tray suitable for cooking food.
• Baking Paper: Optional, for easier clean-up.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sausage meat with any optional add-ins like herbs, cheese, or onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a fork to blend the ingredients until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry

1. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to ensure it’s evenly thick (about 3mm). Cut the pastry into rectangles, each measuring roughly 10cm by 15cm. This will depend on how large you want your sausage rolls.

Step 3: Assemble the Sausage Rolls

1. Fill the Pastry: Place a generous spoonful of the sausage mixture along one edge of each pastry rectangle. Be careful not to overfill, as it may cause the pastry to break when cooking.

2. Roll and Seal: Roll the pastry over the filling until you form a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal the roll, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed. For a neat finish, you can trim any excess pastry.

3. Egg Wash: Place the rolls seam-side down on a plate or a clean surface. Brush the tops with the egg wash to give them a lovely golden colour when cooked.

Step 4: Air Frying

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your sausage rolls cook evenly.

2. Cook the Rolls: Arrange the sausage rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

3. Air Fry: Cook the sausage rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. It’s a good idea to turn them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Cool and Serve: Once done, carefully remove the sausage rolls from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. They’re best served warm, perhaps with a side of tangy ketchup or brown sauce.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Sausage Rolls

• Experiment with Flavours: Don’t hesitate to try different types of sausages or seasonings. Spicy sausage can add a kick, while sweet sausages can create a delightful contrast.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a day or two before air frying. They also freeze well, making them a great snack option for unexpected guests.
• Check for Doneness: Ensure that the sausage rolls are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 75°C (165°F) to ensure they’re safe to eat.

Conclusion

Making air fryer sausage rolls is a delightful way to indulge in a British classic while embracing healthier cooking methods. The result is golden, flaky pastry enveloping a succulent filling—perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a family gathering or simply enjoyed as a snack with friends, these air fryer sausage rolls are sure to be a hit. Give them a try, and enjoy the deliciousness that is quintessentially British!