Scottish eggs

Scotch Eggs: The crispy and savory delight that will tantalize your taste buds

There are moments when the desire to experiment in the kitchen drives us back to classic recipes that have stood the test of time. Scotch eggs are exactly such an example: a delicious and hearty dish, ideal to be served as an appetizer or snack. These boiled eggs, covered with a meat mixture and fried until golden, are not only a pleasure for the taste but also a true visual feast on the plate.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 10 eggs (8 for the dish and 2 for beaten eggs)
- 400 g pork (you can also use beef if you prefer)
- 400 g chicken breast
- 100 g finely chopped shallots (or green onions for a more intense flavor)
- 1 bunch of finely chopped parsley (adds freshness to the dish)
- 1 grated nutmeg (for a subtle but distinctive taste)
- 1 teaspoon English mustard (adds an extra flavor)
- 200 g breadcrumbs (for a crispy crust)
- 200 g flour (helps form the crust)
- 300 ml oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step: How to prepare perfect Scotch eggs

1. Boil the eggs: Start by boiling the 8 eggs for 8-10 minutes. I advise you to place them in cold water and boil them over medium heat. Once boiled, place them in cold water to stop the cooking process, then carefully peel them.

2. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, finely chop the pork and chicken breast. Add the shallots, parsley, grated nutmeg, and English mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

3. Form the balls: Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal balls. This is an important step as each egg needs to be completely covered with meat.

4. Wrap the eggs: Take each meatball and flatten it in your palm. Place a boiled egg in the center of the meatball and wrap it with meat, ensuring it is well covered on all sides.

5. Prepare the breading: In three separate plates, prepare the beaten eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs. Rolling the eggs in these ingredients will give them a crispy and delicious crust.

6. Dredge in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs: By rolling each meat-covered egg through flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, you will achieve a perfect crust. Make sure each egg is well covered.

7. Fry the eggs: In a deep pan, heat the oil. When the oil is hot, carefully add the Scotch eggs. Fry them until golden on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. You can fry 2-3 eggs at a time, depending on the size of your pan.

8. Drain excess oil: After frying, remove the eggs onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

Serving suggestions

Scotch eggs are delicious served warm, alongside a fresh salad or with a mustard sauce. You can prepare a yogurt-based sauce with dill for a touch of freshness or a spicy sauce for those who love intense flavors.

Possible variations

- Chicken or turkey: Instead of pork, you can use chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or cumin, to customize the flavor of the dish.
- Vegetarian: If you want a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mix of vegetables and cheese, such as feta or ricotta.

Nutritional benefits

Eggs are an excellent source of quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. They contain essential nutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium. When combined with lean meat, these Scotch eggs become a hearty and nutrient-rich option.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I make them in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Scotch eggs a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge. I recommend frying them just before serving to keep them crispy.

2. How can I avoid cracking the eggs during boiling?
Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before boiling and add them carefully to the water. Another technique is to add a tablespoon of vinegar to the boiling water.

3. What drinks pair well with Scotch eggs?
A light blonde beer or a dry white wine pairs perfectly with this dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, a spicy tomato juice is an excellent choice.

In conclusion, Scotch eggs are a simple and quick recipe, full of flavor and crunch. By experimenting with ingredients and techniques, you can transform this classic dish into a personalized culinary masterpiece. So embrace your creativity in the kitchen and enjoy every bite!