Are you a fan of Scottish cuisine? Do you love a hearty breakfast to start your day? If so, then you need to try cooking square sausage!
This delicious and juicy sausage is a staple in Scottish breakfasts and can also be enjoyed in a roll with sauce. But how do you cook it to perfection?
In this article, we will explore different methods for cooking square sausage, including grilling, pan-frying, and baking. We’ll also provide tips on how to store and defrost this tasty treat.
So, let’s get started and learn how to cook square sausage like a pro!
How To Cook Square Sausage?
There are several ways to cook square sausage, but the most popular methods are grilling and pan-frying. Here’s how to do it:
What Is Square Sausage?
Square sausage, also known as Lorne sausage or slice, is a traditional Scottish food item made from minced meat, rusk or fine breadcrumbs, and spices. Although it is called a sausage, no casing is used to hold the meat in shape. Instead, it is usually served as square slices from a formed block. The meat used in Lorne sausage is typically a mixture of ground beef and pork, with a fat content of around 15-25% for standard Lorne and 10-15% for steak Lorne. The seasoning includes freshly ground black pepper, nutmeg, coriander, and Diamond Kosher salt. The water is added to help bind the ingredients together.
The popularity of square sausage in Scotland is not new. It has been a common component of the traditional Scottish breakfast for many years. The cheapest versions of square sausage are made of mystery meat and lots of fat, which can make them half the size they were to begin with after frying. The best ones are made with the finest Scottish beef and are well spiced, fatty, and dense.
Although beef has historically been the more popular meat used for sausages in Scotland, pork can also be used to make square sausages. Square sausages made in the islands and far north of Scotland often use pork meat from pigs that were fed with additional fish bones and heads, which leaves a gamy taste to the meat. To disguise this taste, coriander is added to the seasoning.
Grilling Square Sausage
Grilling square sausage is a simple and easy method that results in a deliciously crispy and flavorful sausage. To start, preheat your grill to moderate heat. Remove the square sausage from its packaging and place it onto a suitable tray. Make sure to not place it directly under the heat source, and allow approximately 10cm of space.
Grill the sausage for approximately 6-8 minutes, turning it occasionally to ensure even cooking. You can also use a plancha or griddle plate if you don’t have a grill. Cook the sausage for about 5 minutes on each side until it’s browned and crispy.
Once cooked, remove the sausage from the grill and serve as desired. Traditionally, square sausage is served as part of a full Scottish breakfast or in a white roll with sauce. However, it can also be added to a salad or eaten as is.
Pan-frying Square Sausage
Pan-frying square sausage is a quick and easy way to cook this Scottish delicacy. Start by heating 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Remove the square sausage from its packaging and place it in the pan. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, turning several times to ensure even cooking. If needed, lower the heat during cooking to prevent the sausage from burning.
For a healthier option, you can use a shallow frying pan and only add a small amount of oil. Cook each side of the sausage for about 3 minutes until cooked through, but be careful not to overcook it.
Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and serve immediately. Square sausage is perfect for a full Scottish breakfast, in a roll with sauce, or even in your Stovies!
If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for later use. When reheating frozen square sausage, make sure to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and cook it thoroughly before serving.
Baking Square Sausage
Baking square sausage is another great option for those who want to avoid the mess of frying or grilling. To bake square sausage, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, slice the sausage into 1/2 inch thick pieces and place them on the baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each piece.
Bake the sausage for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the sausage has reached 160°F (71°C).
Baking square sausage is a great option for those who want a healthier alternative to frying, as it doesn’t require any added oil. It’s also a convenient method if you’re cooking for a large group, as you can cook a lot of sausage at once in the oven.
Once your square sausage is cooked, you can serve it as part of a full Scottish breakfast or in a morning roll with broon sauce. Homemade Lorne sausage is also incredibly easy to make, so if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own using the recipe mentioned above.
Tips For Storing And Defrosting Square Sausage
Proper storage and defrosting of square sausage are crucial to ensure its safety and quality. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Store square sausage in the refrigerator or freezer. If you plan to consume it within seven days, store it in the refrigerator. Otherwise, freeze it for later use.
2. If you have frozen square sausage, defrost it properly before cooking. The best way to defrost square sausage is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid defrosting at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
3. If you need to defrost square sausage quickly, you can use the microwave. Use the defrost setting and nuke for 3-5 minutes or until fully thawed. However, be sure to cook the sausage immediately after defrosting.
4. Never refreeze square sausage once it has been defrosted. This can promote bacterial growth and compromise the quality and safety of the sausage.
5. When storing or handling raw square sausage, be sure to follow proper food safety precautions. Wash your hands before and after handling the meat, avoid cross-contamination with other foods, and refrigerate it promptly after preparation.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your square sausage is safe and delicious to eat.
Serving Suggestions For Square Sausage
Square sausage is a versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire your next meal:
1. Full Scottish Breakfast: Square sausage is a staple ingredient in a traditional Scottish breakfast. Serve it alongside fried eggs, bacon, black pudding, tattie scones, and baked beans for a hearty and satisfying meal.
2. Breakfast Roll: For a quick and easy breakfast on the go, slice the square sausage and serve it in a soft roll with your favorite condiments. Try it with ketchup, brown sauce, or HP sauce for an authentic Scottish flavor.
3. Stovies: Square sausage can also be used in stovies, a traditional Scottish dish made with potatoes, onions, and meat. Simply chop the sausage into small pieces and add it to the pot with the other ingredients. Cook until everything is tender and flavorful.
4. Casseroles: Square sausage can add a savory and meaty flavor to any casserole dish. Try it in a shepherd’s pie or a hearty vegetable stew for an extra boost of flavor.
5. Sandwiches: For a quick and easy lunch, slice the square sausage and add it to your favorite sandwich. It pairs well with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mustard.
No matter how you choose to serve it, square sausage is a delicious and satisfying food that is sure to please your taste buds. Give it a try today and discover why it’s such a beloved Scottish tradition.