Welcome to the delicious world of Bangers and Mash! This hearty dish combines savory pork sausages, fluffy mashed potatoes, and rich onion gravy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that warms the soul. Join me as I share my expert tips for making the perfect Bangers and Mash, along with variations to impress your family and friends. Get ready to dive into this delightful comfort food!
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Bangers and Mash
– Pork Sausages: These are the stars of the dish. Choose a mix of sweet and spicy sausages for great flavor. The fat from the sausages adds a rich taste and keeps everything juicy.
– Russet Potatoes: I always use russet potatoes for the mash. They are starchy and creamy, which gives you that perfect, fluffy texture. The flavor is also mild, allowing the butter and milk to shine.
– Onion Gravy Ingredients: You need a few more things for the gravy. Get a small onion, garlic, chicken broth, flour, and Dijon mustard. The onion and garlic add depth, while the broth brings richness. Flour helps to thicken the gravy.
This dish is all about simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component works together to create comfort food that warms the heart.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Mash
To make perfect mash, start with the potatoes. First, peel and cube four large russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to help flavor the potatoes. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes. They should feel soft when poked with a fork.
Next, drain the potatoes carefully. Return them to the pot to let off steam. This helps to dry them out. Add four tablespoons of unsalted butter and half a cup of whole milk. Mash the potatoes well until they are creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This will give your mash a great flavor and texture.
Cooking the Sausages
While the potatoes cook, it’s time for the sausages. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add six pork sausages to the skillet. Make sure to turn them often so they brown evenly. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Check that they are hot inside by cutting one open. Once done, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside. This way, they stay warm and juicy while you finish the dish.
Making the Onion Gravy
Now, let’s prepare the onion gravy. In the same skillet, add one finely chopped small onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about five minutes, stirring often. You want the onions to be soft and translucent. Then, sprinkle one tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the mixture. Stir this in and cook for another minute.
Gradually add one cup of chicken broth. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, as they add great flavor. Next, mix in one tablespoon of Dijon mustard and let it simmer for about three to four minutes. This will thicken the gravy nicely. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. This gravy will bring everything together beautifully.Enjoy your cooking!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Your Mashed Potatoes
To make creamy mashed potatoes, you need the right butter and milk. Use four tablespoons of unsalted butter and half a cup of whole milk. This mix gives your mash a rich texture. Don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper. A pinch of salt in the water while boiling helps too.
Sausage Cooking Techniques
Choose a large skillet for cooking sausages. Heat it to medium. This will help the sausages brown evenly. Cook them for about 15 minutes, turning them often. If you want, you can grill or bake the sausages instead. This adds a nice char and keeps them juicy.
Enhancing the Gravy’s Flavor
For the best flavor, use homemade broth if possible. It makes a huge difference. Store-bought broth works too, but check for quality. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. A dash of pepper or a spoon of mustard can also make your gravy pop.
