The Hairy Bikers’ Sausage Plait is a hearty and rustic dish that showcases the duo’s flair for transforming simple ingredients into something spectacular. This recipe features a beautifully braided pastry filled with savory sausage meat, herbs, and sometimes additional fillings like cheese or onions, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. Ideal for a comforting dinner, picnic, or as a show-stopping centerpiece at a casual gathering, the sausage plait is both a visual and gastronomic delight.
In this article, I will show you how to make this Hairy Bikers sausage plait recipe from scratch. I will also give you some tips and tricks to make it even better.
What is Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait Recipe?
Hairy Bikers sausage plait is a recipe created by the famous British duo of chefs and TV presenters, Dave Myers and Si King, also known as the Hairy Bikers. It is a pastry dish that consists of a puff pastry crust filled with a mixture of sausages, cheese, onion, and herbs. The pastry is then braided or plaited over the filling, creating a beautiful and appetizing look. The plait is baked until golden and crisp, and then sliced and served hot or cold.
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Why You Love this Recipe
There are many reasons to love this recipe, such as:
- Simple to Prepare: Utilizing ready-made puff pastry and common ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and accessible for anyone.
- Flexible and Adaptable: Tailor it to your taste by varying the sausage type or incorporating additional ingredients like bacon or vegetables for a unique twist.
- Delectably Satisfying: Enjoy the delightful combination of buttery pastry with a moist, flavorful filling, offering an appealing contrast in textures.
- Visually Impressive: The plaited design not only looks professional and intricate but is sure to be a conversation starter at any gathering.
- Hearty and Filling: Serving as an excellent main course or substantial snack, it pairs wonderfully with an array of side dishes
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait
You will need the following ingredients:
- 500 g of ready-made puff pastry
- Flour, for dusting
- 1 egg, beaten
- 8 good-quality pork sausages
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 100 g of cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for sprinkling (optional)
Useful Equipment
- A large baking sheet
- A sharp knife
- A rolling pin
- A frying pan
- A bowl
- A pastry brush
- A fork
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the plait from sticking to the sheet and make it easier to transfer to a plate later.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry and Cut Off the Strips
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pastry into a large rectangle, about 30 x 40 cm. You can use a rolling pin or a wine bottle to do this. Make sure the pastry is even and smooth, without any cracks or holes.
- Cut off a thin strip from each side of the pastry and set them aside. These will be used to decorate the plait later. You can use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to do this. Try to make the strips as straight and neat as possible.
Step 3: Transfer the Pastry to the Baking Sheet and Brush the Edges
- Transfer the pastry rectangle to the prepared baking sheet and brush the edges with some beaten egg. You can use a pastry brush or your fingers to do this. The egg will act as a glue and help seal the plait.
Step 4: Make the Filling and Spoon It on the Pastry
- Cut the sausages out of their skins and place them in a large bowl. You can use a pair of scissors or your hands to do this. Discard the skins or save them for another use.
- Add the onion, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix well with your hands. You can also use a fork or a spoon to do this. Make sure the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
- Spoon the sausage mixture along the center of the pastry, leaving a 2 cm border on each side. You can use a spatula or a spoon to do this. Try to make the filling as compact and level as possible, without any gaps or lumps.
Step 5: Cut the Pastry Slits and Fold Them Over the Filling
- Cut diagonal slits along the pastry on both sides of the filling, about 2 cm apart and 2 cm deep. You can use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to do this. Make sure the slits are parallel and symmetrical, and that they do not cut through the filling or the edges of the pastry.
- Fold the top and bottom edges of the pastry over the filling, and press them lightly to seal them. This will create a neat and tidy border for the plait.
- Fold the pastry strips over the filling, alternating from left to right, to create a plait effect. You can use your fingers or a fork to do this. Make sure the strips are tight and secure, and that they cover the filling completely. Tuck the ends of the strips under the plait to seal it.
Step 6: Brush the Plait and Sprinkle the Sesame Seeds
- Brush the plait with more beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like. You can use a pastry brush or your fingers to do this. The egg will give the plait a nice shine and color, and the sesame seeds will add some crunch and flavor.
Step 7: Cut the Pastry Shapes and Stick Them on the Plait
- Cut the pastry strips that you set aside earlier into small shapes, such as stars or hearts, and stick them on the plait with some beaten egg. You can use a sharp knife or a cookie cutter to do this. This will make your plait look more festive and fun. You can also use other shapes, such as flowers, leaves, or letters, depending on the occasion.
Step 8: Bake the Plait and Let It Rest
- Bake the plait for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden and crisp. You can use a toothpick or a skewer to check if the plait is done. If it comes out clean, the plait is ready. If not, bake it for a few more minutes.
- Let the plait rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the plait to set and the filling to firm up. You can use a sharp knife or a bread knife to slice the plait. Enjoy!
What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait?
Pair the Hairy Bikers sausage plait with:
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with a light dressing complements the richness of the plait.
- Hearty Vegetable Soup: A robust soup like pumpkin or tomato adds a warming element, perfect for colder days.
- Rich Tomato Sauce: Elevate the dish with a tangy marinara or spicy arrabbiata sauce.
- Savory Gravy: Enhance flavors further with a homemade gravy infused with herbs and Worcestershire sauce.
- Sweet and Tangy Chutney: Offer a sweet contrast with a fruit-based chutney, balancing the savory sausage taste.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait
To ensure your sausage plait is as delicious as the Hairy Bikers intended, consider these expert tips:
- Select Quality Sausages: Choose sausages rich in flavor and meat content. Avoid overly fatty or dry sausages to ensure a succulent filling.
- Even Pastry Rolling: Roll your pastry uniformly to avoid thin spots. Keep a small border around the pastry to encase the filling securely.
- Precise Pastry Slits: Cut slits of equal size, ensuring they don’t affect the bake and look of the plait. Fold them over the filling gently and firmly.
- Egg Wash for Shine: Apply just enough beaten egg for a glossy finish without making the pastry soggy. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture.
- Optimal Baking: Bake until golden and crisp, covering with foil if it browns too quickly to ensure a perfectly crisp exterior.
Variations of Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait
Embrace creativity and personalize your sausage plait with these variations:
- Different Meats or Vegetarian Options: Try beef, chicken, or vegetarian sausages. Adjust spices or herbs to suit the sausage type.
- Innovative Fillings: Add ingredients like bacon, mushrooms, or cheese. Ensure they are well-cooked and drained of excess moisture before adding to the mixture.
- Alternative Pastries: Experiment with shortcrust, filo, or homemade pastry for varied textures and flavors.
- Individual Plaits: Create smaller, personal-sized plaits or different shapes for a unique touch.
How do I Store Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait Leftovers?
Keep your delicious leftovers fresh with these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: After cooling, wrap the plait in cling film or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap cooled slices securely and freeze, ensuring to label with the contents and date. Consume within 3 months.
- Room Temperature: Briefly store in an airtight container in a cool place, perfect for consumption within a couple of days.
How do I reheat Hairy Bikers Sausage Plait Leftovers?
Reheat your sausage plait to perfection with these methods:
- Oven Reheating: Cover with foil and reheat in a preheated oven until thoroughly warm and crispy.
- Microwave: For a quick method, cover with a damp paper towel and heat, checking and stirring every 30 seconds.
- Toaster or Oven-Toast: Slice to fit toaster or oven and reheat until crisp and warm, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Nutrition value per serving:
- Calories: 676 kcal
- Fat: 48 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 690 mg
- Cholesterol: 152 mg
FAQs
How do I prevent the pastry from tearing or leaking?
Make sure the pastry is rolled out evenly and thinly, but not too thin, as it might tear or leak. Leave a small border around the edges to seal the plait and prevent the filling from spilling out. Cut the pastry slits carefully and evenly, making sure they are not too wide or too narrow, as they will affect the appearance and the baking of the plait. Fold them over the filling gently and firmly, without stretching or breaking them.
How do I make the plait look more festive and fun?
You can cut the pastry strips that you set aside earlier into small shapes, such as stars or hearts, and stick them on the plait with some beaten egg. This will make your plait look more festive and fun. You can also use other shapes, such as flowers, leaves, or letters, depending on the occasion.
How do I make the plait vegetarian or vegan?
You can use vegetarian or vegan sausages instead of pork, and adjust the seasoning accordingly. You can also use vegan cheese and butter, and replace the egg with plant-based milk or water for glazing. You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, or pesto.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this Hairy Bikers sausage plait recipe and found it easy to follow. It’s a great way to use up leftover sausages and make a tasty and filling meal. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments below. I would love to hear from you. Happy cooking!
