These sweet and savoury pork and apple sausage rolls are great for your next picnic or barbecue.
One could argue that this crowd pleasing dish is perfect the way it is. But I welcome a twist on an absolute classic. The humble sausage rolls gets a little zhuzhing with pops of sweet, caramelised apple tucked amongst the savoury pork.
The sausage roll has a history that spans centuries and cultures. I guess we could say that its origins can be traced back to ancient civilisations, where the concept of wrapping spiced meat in dough was practiced. However, the modern iteration of the sausage roll, the one we know and love today, emerged in the 19th century in Britain. It gained popularity as a portable and hearty snack, suitable for various occasions. Its simplicity and versatility have led to its enduring appeal. It has become a staple in bakeries, picnics, and parties, loved for its many combinations of flavours and textures. See another favourite of mine: lamb and feta sausage rolls. Over time, regional variations have emerged, with different countries putting their own unique twist on the classic recipe.
Pork and apple is also a well-beloved, harmonious flavour combination. We cannot resist a sweet and savoury moment. Now a pork and apple sausage roll sees the richness of the meat mellowed and complemented by sweet, and tart apples. Makes sense we wrap them in pastry I think.
Some notes:
- I'd recommend using regular pork mince, rather than lean. Lean mince will make your sausage rolls a little dry.
- I prefer the tart Granny Smith apple variety for this recipe, although any apple will suffice.
Watch the video here. If you make this one, don't forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram. I love to see it!
Pork and Apple Sausage Rolls
Ingredients
- 1.5 teaspoon fennel seeds plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 apple peeled & finely diced
- 1 brown onion finely diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar
- ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 500 g pork mince
- ⅓ c breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1 egg yolk lightly whisked
Instructions
- Dry toast the fennel seeds over a low to medium heat and set aside to cool. Grind in a mortar and pestle.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a fry pan over medium heat. Add apple and onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add brown sugar and vinegar and stir through to dissolve.
- Sprinkle over thyme and toasted fennel seeds, stirring again. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180ºC. In a bowl, combine pork mince, apple and onion mixture, breadcrumbs and seasoning. Mix well and divide into four equal portions.
- Slice your square of pastry in half. Shape filling into a long log, one for each rectangle of pastry. Roll up and seal. Repeat with remaining mixture. Slice each log into four rolls and place on a lined baking tray.
- Brush each sausage roll with egg yolk and sprinkle with remaining fennel seeds. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden on top.
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