The Ultimate Square Sausage Recipe: A Taste of Scotland (and Beyond!)

Square sausage, also known as square Lorne sausage, is a breakfast staple in Scotland and increasingly popular worldwide. This recipe guides you through creating this delicious, savory treat from scratch, perfect for a hearty breakfast or as a tasty addition to any meal. Let's get started!

Understanding the Ingredients: Quality Over Quantity

The key to a truly great square sausage lies in the quality of your ingredients. Don't skimp here!

• Pork: The foundation of your sausage. Look for good quality, preferably minced pork with a decent fat content for flavour and texture. Avoid overly lean mince, as it can result in a dry sausage.
• Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind the sausage together. Fresh breadcrumbs are best, but dried will work in a pinch.
• Onions: Finely diced onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavour. White or yellow onions are ideal.
• Spices: This is where you can personalize your recipe. Classic square sausage usually incorporates sage, pepper, and sometimes nutmeg. Experiment with other herbs and spices to find your perfect blend! Consider a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat.
• Binder: An egg acts as a binder, helping all the ingredients stick together during cooking.
• Fat: While the pork mince contains some fat, a little extra fat (like lard or vegetable oil) helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your Perfect Square Sausage

This recipe makes approximately 12 square sausages.

1. Preparation is Key:

• Finely dice your onions.
• Mix your breadcrumbs with a little milk or water to soften them (this prevents dry sausage).
• Measure out your spices.

2. Combining the Ingredients:

In a large bowl, gently combine the following:

• 500g minced pork
• 100g breadcrumbs (soaked in milk/water)
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 1 tbsp sage
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 tbsp lard or vegetable oil

3. Shaping the Sausages:

Lightly grease a square baking dish or similar container. Press the sausage mixture evenly into the dish, creating an even layer approximately 1-1.5 inches thick.

4. Baking to Perfection:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the sausage is golden brown and cooked through. Use a skewer or meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

5. Cooling and Serving:

Allow the sausage to cool slightly in the dish before cutting it into squares. Once cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to cut the sausage into even squares.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Breakfast Plate

While square sausage is traditionally enjoyed for breakfast, it's incredibly versatile!

• Classic Breakfast: Serve with fried eggs, bacon, black pudding, and toast.
• Savory Snack: Cut into smaller pieces and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
• Sandwich Filling: A delicious and hearty addition to sandwiches or rolls.
• Pasta Sauce: Crumble cooked square sausage into pasta sauces for added flavor and texture.

Tips for Success: Mastering the Square Sausage

• Don't overmix: Overmixing can make the sausage tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• Watch for browning: Keep an eye on the sausage while it's baking to prevent burning.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different herbs and spices to create your own unique square sausage recipe.

This recipe provides a solid foundation for creating delicious square sausage. Remember to experiment, have fun, and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Happy cooking!