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Air Fryer Scotch Eggs
- Category: Comfort |
I haven’t always been a scotch egg lover – the first few times my mum made them for us as kids I refused to eat them – the thought of an egg inside a sausage wasn’t appealing to seven-year-old Nathan. Now, however, it’s a different story and I could eat them every day.
SERVES
6
COOKING TIME
45 mins
DIFFICULTY
simple
This is a slightly healthier version of a scotch egg because, of course, using the air fryer means you avoid deep-fat frying.
What are Scotch eggs?
Scotch eggs are a traditional British snack consisting of a boiled egg wrapped in seasoned sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and usually deep-fried or baked. This air fryer version is a healthier, easier alternative with the same delicious crispy coating.
Can I cook Scotch eggs in an air fryer?
Yes, cooking Scotch eggs in an air fryer is a fantastic way to get a crispy, golden crust with less oil than deep-frying. The air fryer cooks them evenly and quickly, making them a perfect air fryer snack or party treat.
How long do you cook Scotch eggs in the air fryer?
Typically, air fryer Scotch eggs take around 15–18 minutes at 200°C (fan). Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the eggs and your air fryer model, so it’s good to check that the sausage meat is fully cooked and the coating is crisp.
Can I use cold or fresh eggs for air fryer Scotch eggs?
It’s best to use hard-boiled eggs that have been cooled completely before wrapping in sausage meat. This helps keep the shape intact and ensures the sausage meat sticks well during cooking.
Are air fryer Scotch eggs healthy?
Air fryer Scotch eggs use significantly less oil than traditional deep-fried versions, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavour or texture. They’re a great protein-packed snack or lunch option.
Can I freeze Scotch eggs before or after air frying?
You can freeze uncooked Scotch eggs before air frying by wrapping them tightly and freezing. When ready to cook, thaw completely and air fry as usual. Cooked Scotch eggs can also be frozen but may lose some crispness on reheating.
What can I serve with air fryer Scotch eggs?
Air fryer Scotch eggs go brilliantly with salads, pickles, mustard, or chutney for a classic British snack or light meal. They also make a great addition to picnic boxes or lunchboxes.
Can I make Scotch eggs with vegetarian sausage?
Yes, vegetarian or vegan sausage alternatives work well in this recipe for a meat-free version. Just ensure the sausage substitute is firm enough to shape around the eggs before air frying.
Remember, if you like quick and delicious air fryer recipes like this, pick up a copy of my latest cookbook Air Fryer 30 Minute Meals today.
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Method
Step 1
Add six of the eggs to a pan of water, bring to the boil over a high heat and cook for 3 minutes. Remove the eggs and transfer to a bowl of cold water. Cool until cold enough to handle and peel.
Step 2
In a separate bowl, mix the sausage meat, nutmeg, mustard, onion, herbs, salt and pepper, then divide into 6 balls. Once divided, add a layer of cling film on top of each ball and flatten so you can wrap it around the egg, or just press down with your hands.
Step 3
Beat the 2 remaining eggs in a bowl. Dust your hands with flour, then gently dunk the eggs in the remaining flour and even more gently encase the meat with the sausage. Dip the sausage-coated eggs into the beaten egg, then toss in the breadcrumbs to coat.
Step 4
Spray very well with the oil spray and air-fry at 200ºC (390ºF) for 14 minutes. For more healthy low calorie air fryer recipes take a look at The Healthy Air Fryer Book.
Ingredients
8 eggs
500g (1 lb 2 oz) sausage meat or roughly 8 sausages with skin removed
1 tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
1 tsp onion granules or 1 finely chopped, softened onion
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
handful of freshly chopped parsley
2 tbsp plain flour
150g (2/3 cup) breadcrumbs
low-calorie oil spray
salt and pepper, to taste
