Introduction
Cumberland sausage stuffed mushrooms are a brilliant combination of flavours and textures, perfect for a hearty appetiser or a light meal. This recipe is especially great for air fryer enthusiasts looking to make the most out of this versatile kitchen appliance. Not only does the air fryer provide a quick and efficient cooking method, but it also ensures a perfectly cooked mushroom with a deliciously crispy top.
The combination of juicy Cumberland sausage meat with the earthy taste of mushrooms creates a delightful dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 8 large mushrooms, stems removed
- 200g Cumberland sausage meat
- 50g breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 50g grated cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: A pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavour
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked onion and garlic with the sausage meat, breadcrumbs, half of the cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are combined.
- Spoon the sausage mixture into each mushroom cap, pressing down slightly to compact the filling.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the mushrooms.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket, making sure they are evenly spaced and not touching.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed mushrooms are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:
- Appetiser: Perfect for a gathering, serve these mushrooms on a platter with some fresh parsley for garnish.
- Main Course: Pair with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a light meal.
- Snack: Ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up or light evening snack.
Tips and Variations
- Try mixing different types of cheese based on your preference, such as mozzarella for a stringy texture or parmesan for an added depth of flavour.
- For a spicy kick, add some finely chopped chili or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the sausage mixture.
- Experiment with different mushroom types, like portobello, for varied sizes and textures.
Why Air Fry?
Using an air fryer to make this dish significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a healthier choice. Additionally, the air fryer provides a consistently even cooking method that ensures your mushrooms have a perfectly crispy top while being juicy and tender inside. It's also a quicker method than traditional baking, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
Conclusion
Cumberland sausage stuffed mushrooms are not only simple to prepare but also deliver a rich, savoury flavour perfect for any occasion. The air fryer makes this process even easier by cooking them to perfection. These delightful morsels are bound to become a favourite within your household, offering a taste of comfort that is both satisfying and impressive.