Introduction
Bangers and Mash is a traditional British dish that consists of sausages (commonly pork) served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and topped with a rich onion gravy. This hearty meal has been a staple in British cuisine for generations and is often enjoyed as a comforting dinner. The combination of savory sausages and smooth mash, complemented by the flavorful gravy, makes it a beloved choice for many.
Ingredients
- 6 pork sausages (your choice of variety)
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 cups (480ml) beef or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Sausages:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 10-15 minutes. Ensure they are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
- In a large pot, add the chopped potatoes and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
-
Make the Onion Gravy:
- In the same skillet used for the sausages, add the vegetable oil and sliced onions. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are softened and golden brown, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute. Gradually add the stock and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, mashing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve:
- Place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate. Top with the cooked sausages and drizzle the onion gravy over the top.
Health Tips
- While Bangers and Mash is a hearty meal, it can be high in calories and fat. To make it healthier, consider using leaner sausages (like chicken or turkey) and reducing the amount of butter and cream in the mashed potatoes. You can also add steamed vegetables on the side for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Bangers and Mash is best enjoyed hot, served with additional gravy on the side. You can also accompany it with peas or a side salad for added color and nutrition.
Tips
- Sausage Selection: Choose high-quality sausages for the best flavor. Variants like Cumberland or Lincolnshire sausages work particularly well.
- Creamy Mash: For extra creamy mashed potatoes, consider using a potato ricer or food mill instead of a traditional masher.
- Onion Gravy Variation: For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the gravy before simmering or incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
