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Flaky Delights: Sesame Sausage Rolls from Just 4 Ingredients

Savoury treats have long held a fond place in the hearts of food enthusiasts across the UK, and there’s something undeniably delightful about a warm, flaky sausage roll. These comforting bites are a quintessential part of British cuisine, often enjoyed at picnics, parties, and afternoon teas. Today, we’re simplifying this beloved snack with a beautifully easy recipe involving just four ingredients: puff pastry, sausage meat, sesame seeds, and an egg for glazing. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!

A Brief History of the Sausage Roll

Sausage rolls trace their origins back to the 19th century and have become a staple in bakeries across Britain. Historically, they were conceived as a way to wrap up leftover meats in pastry, preserving flavours and providing a satisfying meal on the go. Their popularity is enduring, and they’ve evolved from simple rustic snacks to gourmet offerings in cafés and bakeries.

Why You’ll Love These Flaky Sesame Sausage Rolls

The charm of these sesame sausage rolls lies in their simplicity and versatility. Perfect for elevating any gathering or simply enjoying at home, these rolls exude a sense of warmth and satisfaction. The crisp puff pastry, combined with the rich, savoury sausage filling and finished with a crunchy sesame topping, creates a delightful flavour and texture experience. Plus, with only four ingredients, you can whip them up in no time, making them a fantastic option for unexpected guests or quick weeknight bites.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

1. Puff Pastry: 320g block of ready-rolled puff pastry (shop-bought for ease)
2. Sausage Meat: 400g of your favourite sausage meat (his can be from sausages you remove from their casings)
3. Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds for that delicious crunch
4. Egg: 1 beaten egg for glazing

Equipment:

• Rolling pin
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Brush for glazing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Pastry: If using a block of puff pastry, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 3mm thick. If you’ve opted for ready-rolled pastry, simply unroll it on a clean surface.

3. Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, take your sausage meat and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper, if desired. For an extra layer of flavour, you can also add finely chopped herbs or spices, but remember that we’re keeping it simple!

4. Cut the Pastry: Slice the puff pastry into rectangles, roughly 10cm x 15cm. You should be able to make about 8 rolls from one standard block of pastry.

5. Assemble the Rolls: Spoon an even amount of sausage meat along one edge of each pastry rectangle. Be careful not to overfill, as this will make rolling and sealing them difficult. Fold the pastry over the sausage meat and press down gently to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure a secure seal.

6. Glaze and Top: Place the filled rolls on your prepared baking tray. Brush the tops of each roll with the beaten egg to give them a lovely golden colour while baking. Sprinkle the sesame seeds generously on top to add crunch and additional flavour.

7. Bake: Pop the tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

8. Serve: Once baked, allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re fantastic enjoyed hot or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

These flaky sesame sausage rolls are a splendid representation of British culinary tradition, and their simple preparation makes them an accessible pleasure for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether served as party nibbles, picnic fare, or a tasty family dinner, they are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to these delicious rolls that embody the essence of homemade goodness. Enjoy!