Scotch eggs are a beloved staple in British cuisine, often enjoyed as a snack or part of a picnic spread. Traditionally, these delectable treats consist of a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection. The result is a savoury and satisfying snack that contrasts the crispiness of the breadcrumb coating with the tenderness of the meat and egg inside.
With the advent of air fryers, preparing Scotch eggs has become simpler and healthier without compromising on the characteristic crunch and flavour. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create perfectly crispy and tender Scotch eggs using an air fryer. This method significantly reduces the amount of oil required and avoids the mess associated with deep-frying, while still delivering that classic taste.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 300g sausage meat
- 1 tablespoon English mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 100g plain flour
- 2 additional eggs, beaten
- 150g breadcrumbs
- Oil spray
Instructions:
Step 1: Boil the Eggs
Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 6-7 minutes for a slightly runny yolk or 8-9 minutes for firmly set yolks. Once done, transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
In a bowl, combine the sausage meat with mustard, salt, pepper, parsley, and chives. Mix well with your hands until evenly blended.
Step 3: Peel and Wrap the Eggs
Peel the cooled eggs. Divide the sausage mixture into four equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disc and carefully wrap it around each egg, ensuring there are no gaps.
Step 4: Coat the Scotch Eggs
Roll each wrapped egg in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure a good, even coverage. For an extra crispy finish, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
Step 5: Air Fry the Eggs
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Lightly spray the wrapped eggs with oil spray to promote browning. Place the Scotch eggs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, let the Scotch eggs rest for a few minutes before cutting into them. They are best enjoyed warm, but are equally delicious served cold as part of a picnic or a starter.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Scotch Eggs:
- Use Quality Sausage Meat: Choose high-quality sausage meat for a more flavourful egg. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to suit your taste.
- Ensure a Good Seal: Make sure the sausage coating is sealed well around the egg to prevent it from splitting during cooking.
- Adjust Cooking Times: Depending on your air fryer model, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to achieve the desired crispness.
The air fryer has revolutionised the way we cook many classic dishes, making it easier to enjoy indulgent treats with fewer calories. These air-fried Scotch eggs are no exception, offering a healthier twist on a traditional British favourite without sacrificing taste or texture.
Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or preparing snacks for a party, these Scotch eggs are sure to impress. Experiment with different herbs and spices in the sausage mix to make this recipe your own. Enjoy this quintessential British delicacy with your favourite dipping sauce or a tangy pickle on the side.