Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and season with salt and pepper. If using, add Worcestershire sauce or mustard to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Mix everything together until well combined. It’s best to use your hands to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. If your puff pastry comes in two sheets, work with them separately.
- Cut the pastry into strips about 5 inches wide (the length can vary based on the size of your pastry sheet).
Step 3: Assemble the Sausage Rolls
- Divide the sausage mixture into several long, thin logs that match the length of your pastry strips.
- Place a sausage log on one edge of a pastry strip. Roll the pastry around the sausage, sealing the edge with a little beaten egg. Ensure the seam is on the bottom.
- Cut the long roll into smaller pieces, about 2 inches long, or leave it whole if you prefer larger sausage rolls.
- Brush the top of each sausage roll with the beaten egg. This gives them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the sausage rolls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the sausage meat is cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Allow the sausage rolls to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Serve with dipping sauces such as ketchup, mustard, or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage meat with a mixture of lentils, breadcrumbs, and finely chopped vegetables, seasoned well with herbs and spices.
- Adding grated cheese to the sausage mixture can provide an extra layer of flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the sausage mixture to suit your taste preferences.
Sausage rolls are versatile and can be adapted to include a variety of flavors and ingredients. They’re sure to be a hit whether you’re hosting a party, needing a snack, or packing a picnic.