Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls are a delectable twist on the classic British snack, transforming the traditional savory pastry with an exciting punch of heat and flavor. Famous for her appearances on The Great British Bake Off, Mary Berry has long been celebrated for her ability to put an innovative spin on familiar comfort foods.
These spicy sausage rolls combine seasoned sausage meat with fragrant spices, encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry. What makes them stand out is the delicate balance between the richness of the sausage and the warmth of spices like chili, paprika, and cumin. The result is a snack that’s both comforting and invigorating, perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy homemade treat.
The beauty of Mary Berry’s recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility-while the heat from the spices adds an exciting edge, it’s not overwhelming. Instead, it enhances the depth of the filling without taking away from the juicy, savory richness of the sausage. The golden, crisp pastry gives each bite that perfect, buttery crunch that makes sausage rolls such an irresistible classic.
Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls Recipe
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients for Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls are straightforward, yet the combination of these components brings out a flavorful, spicy delight. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
For The Sausage Filling
- Sausage Meat: 500g of good-quality sausage meat is the base of the filling. You can either buy pre-seasoned sausage meat or make your own by removing the casing from sausages of your choice.
- Chili Powder: 1 tsp for that distinctive kick of heat. Adjust to taste depending on how spicy you want your rolls to be.
- Paprika: 1 tsp, preferably smoked, for a subtle smokiness that complements the spiciness.
- Ground Cumin: 1 tsp for an earthy warmth that adds another layer of flavor to the filling.
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh parsley or thyme adds freshness and balance to the filling.
- Breadcrumbs: 50g to help bind the sausage meat together and give it a nice, tender texture.
- Egg Yolk: 1 egg yolk to bind the filling and give it a smooth consistency.
For The Pastry
- Puff Pastry: 1-2 sheets of high-quality ready-made puff pastry. You can use shortcrust if you prefer a denser texture, but puff pastry provides that delightful light, flaky texture.
- Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten, for brushing the tops of the sausage rolls to ensure a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the filling is well-seasoned but not overpowering.
Equipment Needed
Though Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls are relatively simple to make, having the right equipment ensures they come out perfectly every time. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking Sheet: A large, flat baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the pastry from sticking.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry to the desired thickness, ensuring an even layer for wrapping the sausage filling.
- Sharp Knife: For cutting the pastry and sausage rolls into even pieces.
- Pastry Brush: To apply the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish on the pastry.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the sausage meat, breadcrumbs, and spices.
- Fork or Skewer: To prick the tops of the rolls before baking, allowing steam to escape and ensuring they cook evenly.
- Oven: Preheated to the correct temperature for an even bake.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls
1. Prepare The Sausage Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage meat with the chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, then mix in the fresh herbs. If you want the filling to have more bite, feel free to add finely chopped onion or garlic at this stage.
- For extra moisture and richness, you can add a little bit of egg yolk into the filling. This helps to bind everything together and adds a lovely consistency.
2. Roll Out The Pastry
- Lay your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the pastry out to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick. The pastry should be large enough to enclose the sausage filling.
- Cut the pastry into strips about 10-12cm (4-5 inches) wide. This will depend on how large or small you want each sausage roll to be.
3. Assemble The Sausage Rolls
- Place a line of the sausage filling down the center of each strip of pastry. Be generous with the filling, but leave about 1cm (½ inch) at each end of the strip.
- Fold the sides of the pastry over the sausage filling, rolling it into a log-like shape. Make sure the seam is sealed, pinching the edges together. For extra sealing, you can press the edges with a fork.
4. Cut And Prepare For Baking
- Use a sharp knife to cut the rolls into bite-sized portions, about 3-4cm (1-2 inches) long.
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow room for expansion.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash, making sure each roll is coated evenly for that perfect golden finish.
5. Bake
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Bake the sausage rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them toward the end to ensure they don’t over-brown.
- Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Tips And Tricks
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with the spice mix based on your preferences. Add a pinch of ground coriander, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat or flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: These sausage rolls can be assembled ahead of time and frozen. Simply freeze them on a tray before baking, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Herbs & Aromatics: For extra flavor, try adding finely minced garlic or onion to the sausage filling. You can also use a mix of fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, or dill, depending on the flavor profile you want to achieve.
- Puff Pastry vs Shortcrust: While puff pastry adds a light, airy texture, shortcrust pastry offers a denser, crumblier texture. If you want your sausage rolls to feel more hearty, consider using shortcrust instead.
- Serve with Dips: Pair your spicy sausage rolls with a refreshing yogurt-based dip or a tangy mustard to balance out the heat.
Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls are a delicious twist on a British classic, perfect for anyone who loves the savory goodness of sausage rolls but wants a bit more excitement in the flavor department. The mix of spices brings heat and depth without overpowering the richness of the sausage meat. Easy to make and fully customizable to your tastes, these sausage rolls are a fantastic snack for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a casual dinner, or a festive event. Plus, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can make them even more personal and tailor them to your liking.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls
Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls are an indulgent treat that can be easily modified to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to spice them up further or tone them down, the beauty of sausage rolls is in their versatility. Here are some delicious variations to try:
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Herb and Cheese Sausage Rolls
For a more aromatic twist, try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage into your sausage filling. Adding grated cheese-like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a tangy blue cheese-will create a rich, flavorful bite. You can fold the cheese directly into the sausage mixture, or sprinkle some on top before baking for a melty, golden finish.
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Veggie-Filled Sausage Rolls
For those who want a lighter or vegetarian option, swapping out traditional sausage meat for a veggie-based filling can be an excellent option. You could use a blend of mushrooms, spinach, lentils, and breadcrumbs, all mixed with some spices for flavor. This makes for a delicious alternative that still holds the flaky pastry crunch and savory filling.
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Spicy Chorizo Sausage Rolls
For a true punch of flavor, replace the regular sausages with spicy chorizo sausage. The smokiness and heat from the chorizo will elevate your sausage rolls to another level. You can also mix the chorizo with some ground pork or beef to keep the filling juicy and balanced. Adding a touch of paprika or chili flakes will increase the heat, depending on your spice tolerance.
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Apple and Sage Sausage Rolls
If you enjoy a sweet and savory combination, adding finely chopped apple and fresh sage to the sausage mixture can create a delightful contrast. The sweetness from the apple complements the richness of the sausage, while the sage enhances the earthy flavor profile. This version is particularly delicious in autumn or winter when apples are in season.
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Lamb and Mint Sausage Rolls
For a more exotic take, try using lamb mince mixed with fresh mint, garlic, and a touch of cumin or coriander. The pairing of lamb and mint is a classic combination that works wonderfully in sausage rolls. This variation is perfect for adding a Mediterranean flair to your snack.
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Vegan Sausage Rolls
For those following a plant-based diet, you can substitute traditional sausage meat with a vegan sausage or even a homemade mixture of tofu, mushrooms, and chickpeas. Spices like smoked paprika, turmeric, and nutritional yeast can be used to enhance the flavor, making these vegan sausage rolls just as satisfying as the original.
These easy variations of Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls will not only appeal to a wide range of taste preferences, but they also give you the freedom to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re after something hotter, milder, or with a more unique flavor profile, these modifications ensure that you can tailor the recipe to your needs.
Storing Leftovers
Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls are a delightful snack, but if you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a good problem to have), here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy them later.
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Cool Before Storing
Before storing any leftovers, make sure the sausage rolls are completely cool. This will help prevent condensation inside the storage container, which could make the pastry soggy. Let them rest on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes after they’ve come out of the oven.
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Storing in the Refrigerator
To keep your sausage rolls fresh for a few days, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, or place them in an airtight container. Stored this way, they should last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. While the pastry won’t be as crisp as when freshly baked, they’ll still be delicious and flavorful.
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Freezing for Longer Storage
If you want to store your sausage rolls for a longer period, freezing is the way to go. To freeze them, arrange the cooled sausage rolls on a baking tray in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. Freeze for 1-2 hours until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. This method helps preserve the shape and texture of the pastry. Frozen sausage rolls will keep for up to 3 months.
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Reheating Tips
When reheating, try to bring your sausage rolls back to life in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), then place the sausage rolls on a baking sheet and warm them for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the pastry is crispy again. If reheating from frozen, bake them directly from frozen for around 20-25 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even cooking.
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Avoid Over-Storing
Sausage rolls are best enjoyed within a few days of being made. While they can be stored and reheated, they will never taste quite as fresh as when they first come out of the oven. If you plan to store leftovers, try to limit the amount you make in advance to avoid excess leftovers, or freeze them right after cooking for the best quality.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls?
Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls are a fantastic snack on their own, but if you’re looking to serve them as part of a larger meal or snack spread, there are plenty of sides and accompaniments that will elevate the experience.
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Tangy Dips
Sausage rolls pair beautifully with a variety of dips, which can complement the spicy kick. A classic choice would be brown sauce, which has a slightly tangy and sweet flavor. Alternatively, tomato chutney offers a sweet-and-spicy contrast, while a creamy mustard dip will bring an extra tang to the table. For something a little different, try a garlic aioli or spicy harissa dip for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
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Green Salad
A light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the sausage rolls. Go for a simple green salad with mixed leaves, cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. You can also toss in some roasted vegetables like beets, carrots, and squash for a heartier option. The freshness and acidity of the salad will help cut through the richness of the pastry.
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Roasted Potatoes or Fries
For a more filling side, consider pairing your sausage rolls with crispy roasted potatoes or a side of fries. Toss the potatoes in olive oil, salt, and rosemary before roasting to bring out their natural flavor. This side dish is perfect for those who want a more substantial meal.
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Pickles and Relishes
The acidity from pickles and relishes complements the savory and spiced flavor of the sausage rolls. Serve with a variety of pickled vegetables-like gherkins, onions, and cauliflower-or opt for a tangy apple relish to bring out the sweetness and spiciness of the rolls.
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Coleslaw
Creamy, crunchy coleslaw is a classic side that pairs perfectly with sausage rolls. The creamy dressing provides a rich contrast to the spiciness of the sausage filling. You can go for a traditional cabbage slaw, or experiment with adding apple or red cabbage for a twist.
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Soup
If you’re serving sausage rolls as a starter, they go wonderfully with a bowl of hearty tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or even a creamy leek and potato soup. The warmth and texture of the soup provide a nice contrast to the flaky, savory pastry.
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A Cold Beverage
To balance the heat of the sausage rolls, pair them with a cold drink like a refreshing lemonade or a crisp cider. If you prefer something with a little more kick, an ice-cold beer or a light white wine will pair wonderfully with the flavors.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls are a perfect blend of flaky pastry and savory filling, with just the right amount of spice. Whether you choose to stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations like veggie-filled, chorizo, or apple-sage twists, the possibilities are endless. They’re great for parties, picnics, or just as a tasty snack.
When it comes to storing leftovers, whether you refrigerate or freeze them, keeping them in optimal conditions will ensure they remain just as delicious when reheated. For serving, there’s no shortage of tasty sides and dips that will complement the rich, savory flavors of the sausage rolls, from tangy chutneys to fresh salads or roasted potatoes.
At the end of the day, Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls are a crowd-pleaser that can be adapted for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal affair. Enjoy them warm, fresh, or as leftovers, and you’ll be sure to impress your guests every time.
FAQs
What Makes Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls Different From Traditional Sausage Rolls?
Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls stand out due to the addition of flavorful spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. These ingredients elevate the flavor profile, giving the sausage filling a delightful kick compared to classic sausage rolls. The use of puff pastry adds a buttery, flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the spiced sausage filling.
Can I Adjust The Level Of Spiciness In Mary Berry’s Sausage Rolls?
Yes, you can easily adjust the spiciness in Mary Berry’s sausage rolls to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and paprika. On the other hand, for extra heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add some fresh chili into the filling. Just be sure to taste test along the way to ensure it’s at the right level for you!
What Is The Best Way To Serve Mary Berry’s Spicy Sausage Rolls?
Mary Berry’s spicy sausage rolls are versatile and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal. They are fantastic when served warm with a side of tangy tomato chutney or a cooling yogurt dip to balance the heat. These sausage rolls are also great for picnics, parties, or as a hearty finger food at gatherings.
