Description
Mary Berry Sausage Plait is a traditional British dish that features seasoned sausage meat encased in a puff pastry that’s braided on top to create a visually appealing pattern. The sausage filling can be enhanced with various herbs and spices, making this dish not only visually attractive but also deeply flavorful. It’s commonly served as a main dish at dinners or as a savory snack at gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 500g (1.1 lbs) sausage meat – or choose your favorite variety—pork, beef, or vegetarian.
- 375g (13 oz) puff pastry – store-bought or homemade.
- 1 onion – finely chopped for added flavor.
- 1 garlic clove – minced.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley – finely chopped.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – for a slight tang.
- 1 egg – beaten, for glazing the pastry.
- 50g (1.7 oz) breadcrumbs – to help bind the sausage filling.
- Salt and pepper – to taste for seasoning.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the sausage filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sausage meat, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 30cm x 40cm (12 inches x 16 inches). Transfer the pastry to a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Shape the sausage filling
- Shape the sausage mixture into a long log and place it down the center of the puff pastry, leaving space on both sides for braiding the pastry over the top.
Step 4: Braid the pastry
- Cut diagonal strips along both sides of the pastry, about 2cm (¾ inch) wide. Fold the strips over the sausage filling, alternating from side to side to create a braided pattern. Tuck in the ends to seal.
Step 5: Glaze and bake the plait
- Brush the beaten egg over the top of the pastry for a golden finish. Place the sausage plait in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the sausage filling is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the Mary Berry Sausage Plait is baked, allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a side salad or steamed vegetables.