Air Fryer Scotch Eggs: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Scotch eggs are a popular snack, breakfast, or brunch item. They are typically made by wrapping boiled eggs in sausage meat and coating them in breadcrumbs before baking or deep-frying. Air fryers have become a popular alternative to traditional deep-frying, as they can produce a crispy crust without the need for large amounts of oil. This not only makes the cooking process less messy but also results in a slightly healthier dish.

How long to cook scotch eggs in an air fryer

Scotch eggs are a great snack, breakfast, or brunch item. They are easy to make in an air fryer and are a healthier alternative to deep-fried scotch eggs.

To make scotch eggs in an air fryer, you can start by boiling the eggs to your desired doneness. You can steam, soft-boil, or hard-boil the eggs. Just remember that the eggs will cook further in the air fryer, so you might want to undercook the yolk slightly to achieve a perfect hard-cooked egg at the end. Once done, cool the eggs and peel them.

Next, prepare the sausage mixture. You can add spices, fresh herbs, bacon, onions, or chopped ham to the mix. Season the sausage mixture with salt and pepper. Divide the sausage mixture into 6 portions, flatten them, and shape each portion around a peeled egg.

Then, prepare three bowls: one with flour, the second with a beaten egg, and the third with breadcrumbs. Coat each egg completely in flour, then egg, and finally in breadcrumbs. Return the egg to the wire rack and repeat with the remaining eggs.

Now, preheat your air fryer to 350°F-400°F. Lightly spray the scotch eggs with cooking oil or line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Place the eggs in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 15 to 25 minutes, flipping them over in the last 5 minutes, until the sausage layer is cooked and the coating is golden brown.

Your air-fried scotch eggs are now ready to be enjoyed! They can be served hot or cold with a variety of dipping sauces, such as mustard, honey mustard, or Sriracha mayonnaise.

How to prepare the eggs

Preparing the eggs for your Scotch eggs is a simple process, but it does require some care and attention. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect Scotch egg:

Firstly, select your eggs. Medium-sized eggs are a good option, but you can also use smaller or larger eggs, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Allow your eggs to come to room temperature before cooking, as cold eggs are more likely to crack during the cooking process.

Place the eggs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Set the air fryer temperature to between 180-200°C and cook the eggs for around 8-12 minutes. The exact temperature and time will depend on your desired level of doneness. For a soft-boiled egg, aim for the lower end of the time range, and for a hard-boiled egg, cook for a little longer.

Once the eggs are cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer and place them in a bowl of ice-cold water. This will stop the cooking process and make the eggs easier to peel. Leave the eggs in the water for about 5 minutes, then peel them and set them aside.

Now it's time to assemble the Scotch eggs. Take your sausage meat and season it with dried herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add other spices or ingredients like Worcestershire sauce or cheese, depending on your preference. Mix the sausage meat with your hands until it forms a paste-like consistency.

Divide the sausage meat into equal portions, depending on how many eggs you are preparing. Pat and flatten each portion into an oval shape, making sure it is large enough to wrap around an egg. Place the boiled egg in the centre of the sausage meat and wrap it evenly around the egg, ensuring it is secure and there are no gaps.

Roll the meat-covered egg in flour, then dip it into a bowl of beaten egg, and finally, coat it with breadcrumbs. You can use standard breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture. Repeat this process for each egg, placing the prepared Scotch eggs in the fridge until you are ready to cook them.

How to prepare the meat

Preparing the meat for Scotch eggs is a simple process. Firstly, decide on the type of sausage meat you want to use. While traditional British pork sausage is commonly used, you can also opt for chicken sausage meat or experiment with other types of meat. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make your own sausage meat from scratch.

Once you've chosen your meat, it's time to season it. This is where you can get creative and add your favourite herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, sage, and thyme are popular choices, while mustard, onion, and garlic can also be mixed in for extra flavour. Don't be afraid to experiment and find a combination that suits your taste buds.

When it comes to shaping the meat, divide it into equal portions, usually around 4-6 portions, depending on the number of eggs you're using. Form each portion into a tight ball, making sure it's compact and well-combined. You can also try flattening the meat into a patty shape, which will make it easier to wrap around the egg without breaking it.

Now, it's time to wrap the meat around the eggs. This part can be a bit tricky, especially if you're using soft-boiled eggs. Carefully encase each egg completely in the sausage meat, ensuring there are no gaps. If you're finding it difficult to get the meat to stick, you can try moistening your hands with a little water or oil.

Finally, once all your eggs are wrapped, it's a good idea to chill them in the refrigerator for a while. This will help the meat firm up and make it easier to handle when it comes to breading and frying.

How to assemble the scotch eggs

To assemble Scotch eggs, you will need eggs, sausagemeat, dried herbs, garlic powder, salt and pepper, flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Some recipes also call for bacon, sage, and mixed herbs. You can also add brown sugar and smoked paprika powder to the breadcrumbs for added flavour.

First, cook the eggs to your liking—soft- or hard-boiled. Then, prepare a bowl of ice-cold water and transfer the eggs to the icy water to cool before peeling them. In a bowl, mix the sausagemeat, dried herbs, and garlic powder with your hands until it forms a paste-like consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Using kitchen paper, dry the peeled eggs.

Next, gather three bowls. Season the flour and place it in the first bowl. Add the beaten eggs to the second bowl, and the breadcrumbs to the third. Using one-quarter of the sausagemeat mixture, mould the meat around one of the boiled eggs, aiming for an even thickness throughout.

Roll the sausagemeat-covered egg in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg mixture, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process for the remaining eggs.

Dipping sauces and serving suggestions

Scotch eggs are a delightful snack, but what sauces and sides should you serve with them? Here are some ideas for dipping sauces and serving suggestions to elevate your Scotch egg experience.

Dipping Sauces

• Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy sauce is a popular choice for Scotch eggs. You can find it in the Indian section of your grocery store. If you prefer a smoother consistency, simply blend it in a food processor.
• Mustard Sauce: A classic and traditional choice, mustard sauce pairs well with the flavours of Scotch eggs. English mustard or Dijon mustard sauce are both excellent options. You can also add a twist with a tangy, slightly spicy mustard sauce.
• Yogurt-Chutney Sauce: For a creamy and flavourful dip, combine yogurt, chutney, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, curry powder, and cayenne. This sauce is perfect for those who like a bit of spice.
• Ketchup: A simple yet classic choice, ketchup can add a touch of sweetness to your Scotch egg.
• Brown Sauce: HP brown sauce, in particular, is a beloved British condiment that goes well with Scotch eggs.

Serving Suggestions

Scotch eggs are typically served as a snack or picnic food, but they can also be part of a larger meal. Here are some ideas for sides and serving suggestions:

• Salad: A light and refreshing option, serve your Scotch egg on a bed of arugula or garden salad with a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Baked Beans: Warm and comforting, baked beans in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce are a perfect companion to the rich and meaty Scotch eggs.
• Sausage Rolls: Flaky and flavourful, sausage rolls wrapped in buttery puff pastry offer a delightful crunch alongside the soft Scotch eggs.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy and savoury, potato wedges are a satisfying side dish. Season them with herbs and roast them to perfection for a rustic charm that pairs well with Scotch eggs.
• Fruit Platter: A vibrant and juicy fruit platter provides a refreshing contrast to the savoury Scotch eggs, adding colour and freshness to your meal.

Frequently asked questions