Sausage Rolls (They are Like Dim Sum)

[marinast]

I know sausage rolls aren’t dim sum but I made and photographed them a while ago but didn’t really know what to say about them.

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Sausage rolls are a savory treat where a sausage mixture is encased in puff pastry and baked until golden brown and crispy. They are popular in many cultures, often as snacks, appetizers, or even main dishes. Although sausage rolls differ from dim sum in that they're generally larger and encased in a buttery crust, you might be thinking of Chinese dim sum dishes like "pork buns" or "dumplings" that can have sausage or ground meat fillings. Let's create a recipe for classic sausage rolls with some variation for added flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of puff pastry sheets (typically contains 2 sheets), thawed according to package instructions
• 1 pound ground sausage meat (can be pork, chicken, or beef sausage)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional, for added flavor and texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Combine the Sausage and Vegetables:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage with the chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), garlic powder, dried sage, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

1. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out each puff pastry sheet into a rectangular shape, aiming for approximately 10x12 inches (25x30 cm).

2. Divide the Pastry:
   Cut each puff pastry sheet in half lengthwise to create four long rectangles.

Assemble the Sausage Rolls:

1. Add the Sausage Mixture:
   Place a portion of the sausage mixture along one edge of each puff pastry strip, forming a thin, even line. Leave a small gap at the edge to help seal the rolls.

2. Roll the Pastry:
   Roll the puff pastry over the sausage filling, making sure the seam is on the bottom. Pinch the edges to seal. Use a fork to press along the seam for extra sealing.

3. Cut the Rolls:
   Cut each roll into smaller sections, about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long. You can also keep them longer for larger sausage rolls if desired.

Bake the Sausage Rolls:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Apply Egg Wash:
   Place the sausage rolls on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a decorative touch.

3. Bake the Sausage Rolls:
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the sausage filling is cooked through. The rolls should be crispy and flaky.

Serve the Sausage Rolls:

1. Cool and Serve:
   Once baked, allow the sausage rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature with dipping sauces such as ketchup, mustard, or sweet chili sauce.

These sausage rolls are versatile and can be customized with different fillings or spices to suit your taste. If you'd like more recipes or other savory pastry ideas, I can share additional suggestions. Enjoy your sausage rolls!