Smoked Bacon & Chestnut Sausage Rolls - Day 23

As Christmas draws near, indulging in traditional comfort foods that bring warmth and joy to our homes becomes a delightful ritual. Among these festive treats, Christmas Smoked Bacon & Chestnut Sausage Rolls stand out as a delicious twist on a well-loved classic. These sausage rolls combine a rich, savoury filling of smoked bacon, chestnuts, and sausage meat, all encased in golden, flaky pastry.

Ideal for family gatherings and holiday parties, these rolls are sure to impress with their unique flavour and seasonal charm. The addition of smoked bacon and chestnuts adds a depth of taste that elevates the traditional sausage roll to new festive heights. The golden pastry not only provides a satisfying crunch but also complements the hearty filling, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.

These sausage rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served as a snack, appetiser, or even as part of a main meal spread. They’re easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or simply looking for a comforting treat to enjoy by the fireplace, Christmas Smoked Bacon & Chestnut Sausage Rolls are the perfect addition to your holiday menu.

With their delightful aroma and festive appeal, these sausage rolls are bound to become a holiday favourite, bringing a touch of traditional British charm to your Christmas celebrations.

To begin, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

• 250g smoked bacon, finely chopped
• 200g cooked chestnuts, roughly chopped
• 500g sausage meat
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 sheets of ready-rolled puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
• Salt to taste

If any ingredients are hard to source, consider these alternatives: pancetta can substitute smoked bacon for a different twist, while walnuts or hazelnuts can replace chestnuts if preferred. For those seeking a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage and omit the bacon.

Having the right ingredients is crucial for capturing the rich flavours of these festive sausage rolls. Using ready-rolled puff pastry simplifies the preparation, ensuring a light and flaky exterior.

Method

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or Gas Mark 6.

2. To start, combine the bacon, sausage meat, chopped chestnuts, black pepper, and salt in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated. For a bit more depth of flavour, you might want to add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture.
3. On a lightly floured surface, lay out the puff pastry sheets and cut each one in half lengthwise. Take the mixture and place the meat along the long side of the pastry in the centre. This is where you can have as little or as much filling as you wish... I always want a decent amount of filling so go all in.

4. Brush along one of the long sides with a little beaten egg making sure you reach up to the filling.
5. Carefully roll the pastry over the filling, ensuring the edges overlap slightly. Press the seams firmly to seal, and for a decorative touch, use a fork to crimp the edges. This will help the rolls hold their shape and provide an attractive finish.
6. Cut each pastry log into smaller rolls, approximately 5cm in length. Arrange these mini rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, placing them seam side down to prevent them from unravelling during baking.

To enhance the final appearance, you can lightly score the tops of the rolls with a sharp knife. This not only adds a professional look but also helps steam escape, ensuring the pastry remains crisp and flaky.

7. Remember to leave some space between each roll on the baking tray to allow for even cooking and expansion. Proper spacing will also help achieve that coveted golden-brown colour on all sides.

By paying close attention to the assembly process, you’ll ensure your sausage rolls bake evenly and maintain their shape, resulting in a batch of perfectly crafted Christmas treats.

Achieving the perfect bake for your Christmas Smoked Bacon & Chestnut Sausage Rolls requires attention to detail. After assembling your rolls, brush each one with the beaten egg. This step ensures a shiny, golden finish that enhances their visual appeal.

8. Place the sausage rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, especially during the final few minutes, to avoid over-baking. Rotate the baking tray halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides.

For an even bake, make sure there's sufficient space between each roll on the baking tray. This allows hot air to circulate freely, ensuring the pastry becomes crisp and uniformly golden.

Once the sausage rolls reach a beautiful golden-brown colour, and the pastry feels firm to the touch, they are ready to be taken out of the oven. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving, as this helps to maintain their flaky texture.

By carefully monitoring the baking process and following these steps, you'll achieve sausage rolls that are perfectly golden and irresistibly flaky.

When it comes to serving your Christmas Smoked Bacon & Chestnut Sausage Rolls, there are plenty of ways to add a festive touch and enhance their flavours. For a delightful contrast, serve them with a tangy cranberry sauce or a spiced apple chutney. These condiments beautifully complement the savoury filling, creating a balanced and tasty bite with every mouthful.

For an eye-catching presentation, arrange the sausage rolls on a large platter, and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or holly leaves. This not only adds a festive flair but also infuses a subtle herbal aroma to the display. Alternatively, consider creating a festive centrepiece by stacking the sausage rolls in a circular pattern to form a 'wreath,' complete with a ribbon in the middle.

Pairing these sausage rolls with drinks can also elevate your holiday spread. A glass of mulled wine, with its warm spices and rich flavours, makes a perfect accompaniment. For those who prefer something less sweet, a classic British ale offers a robust flavour that complements the hearty filling of the sausage rolls.

If you’re hosting a gathering with a diverse crowd, consider setting up a dipping station with various sauces such as mustard, barbecue sauce, and even a bit of hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat. This allows guests to personalise their sausage rolls to their liking.

For a more substantial meal, serve the sausage rolls alongside a fresh winter salad. A salad with mixed greens, roasted root vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rolls.

No matter how you choose to present and pair them, these Christmas Smoked Bacon & Chestnut Sausage Rolls are sure to be a hit at your festive gatherings, adding a touch of traditional charm and delightful flavour to the occasion.

Storage & Reheating

To keep your sausage rolls fresh, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to three days.

For reheating, preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Place the sausage rolls on a baking tray and warm them for 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and regain their crispness. It's best to avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy. Using the oven ensures they retain their flaky texture and delicious flavour.

If you make this dish, why not send me a picture on Instagram using the #acountrygirlskitchen so I can go over and show it some love.

I hope you all have a wonderful day.

*Chefs Kiss*