Sausage and apple puff pastry parcels are a delightful combination of savory and sweet, easy to prepare and perfect for a quick yet impressive meal. By using an air fryer, these parcels become even more convenient, as this method of cooking ensures a perfectly crisp pastry every time with minimal fuss and reduced cooking time. Here's how you can create this delicious recipe at home.
Ingredients
- 6 pork sausages (high-quality, ideally butcher's choice)
- 1 large apple (preferably a tart variety like a Granny Smith), peeled and finely chopped
- 1 sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausages: Remove the sausage meat from casings. Place in a bowl and mix with the chopped apple, and season with a little salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the sheet into six equal squares. Place a dollop of the sausage and apple mixture onto the centre of each square.
- Assemble the Parcels: Brush the edges of each pastry square with a little beaten egg. Fold the corners to the centre over the filling, pinching the edges together to seal the parcels securely.
- Chill the Parcels: Place the prepared parcels in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes. Chilling helps the pastry maintain its shape during baking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). This step is crucial for ensuring that your pastry cooks evenly.
- Cook: Remove the parcels from the fridge and place them in the air fryer basket (you might need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer). Brush the tops with more beaten egg for a golden glaze. Air fry for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Allow the parcels to cool for a few minutes before serving. These parcels are best enjoyed warm.
Tips and Variations
While this recipe is wonderful as is, there are a few variations and tips to tailor it to your taste:
- For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of sage or thyme to the sausage mixture.
- Try using different types of sausages for varied taste profiles. Spicy sausages can add a fiery kick to the parcels.
- If you have extra time, make your own puff pastry for an even more indulgent treat.
- These parcels can be prepared ahead of time, frozen and then cooked straight from the freezer in the air fryer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
The air fryer is an excellent tool for home cooks looking to achieve crispy results with less oil. It works by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crisp exterior similar to deep frying but with significantly fewer calories. The even distribution of heat also means that foods cooked in an air fryer often cook faster, allowing you to serve up delicious results in a fraction of the time.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for a savoury snack, a light meal, or an impressive dish to serve at gatherings, these sausage and apple puff pastry parcels are perfect. They embody a beautiful blend of textures and flavors, from the crisp puff pastry to the juicy savoury filling. Easy and quick to make in an air fryer, they offer a gourmet touch with minimal effort.
So why not give this recipe a try next time you need a dish that is both comforting and elegant? Your taste buds will thank you, and so will anyone lucky enough to share this delightful creation with you.