Bangers and Mash

Introduction

Bangers and mash is a classic British dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. This hearty meal typically consists of sausages served with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich onion gravy. It’s a perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you crave something hearty and delicious. In this article, we will walk you through a delicious recipe for bangers and mash that you can easily prepare at home.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Sausages: 8 pork sausages
– Potatoes: 2 pounds, peeled and cubed
– Butter: 4 tablespoons
– Milk: ½ cup
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Onion: 1 large, finely sliced
– Beef or chicken broth: 1 cup
– Flour: 2 tablespoons

Prep Time

The preparation time for bangers and mash is approximately 15 minutes. It’s important to gather all your ingredients and tools before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for bangers and mash is about 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time needed to prepare this delicious dish is around 45 minutes. This recipe yields serving for four people, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into equal-sized chunks. Place the potato pieces in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous amount of salt, ensuring the water tastes like the sea. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes in a colander and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Sausages

While the potatoes are boiling, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Once cooked, remove the sausages from the skillet and keep them warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Onion Gravy

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring often until they are soft and caramelized. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine, cooking for another minute.

Step 5: Add Stock

Gradually pour in the beef stock while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Mash the Potatoes

Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter and milk (or cream) to the potatoes. Mash thoroughly until smooth and creamy, adjusting the butter and milk to achieve your preferred texture.

Step 7: Serve

Place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate, top with the cooked sausages, and then generously ladle the onion gravy over the dish. Serve immediately.

Notes

Note 1: Potato Variety

For best results, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold for a creamy mash.

Note 2: Sausage Options

You can use any type of sausage, such as pork, chicken, or vegetarian varieties, depending on your preference.

Note 3: Leftovers

Bangers and mash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to the mash if needed.

Note 4: Variation Suggestions

For variation, consider adding garlic or herbs to the mashed potatoes, or experimenting with different types of gravy, such as mushroom or ale-based.

Cook techniques

Boiling Potatoes

Cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender.

Mashed Potatoes

Drain the boiled potatoes thoroughly, then mash them with butter and milk until smooth and creamy.

Cooking Sausages

Cook the sausages in a pan over medium heat, turning occasionally to ensure they brown evenly and cook through.

Making Onion Gravy

Sauté sliced onions in the sausage drippings, then add stock and seasoning to create a rich gravy.

Serving

Serve the sausages over the creamy mashed potatoes and top with the onion gravy for a hearty meal.

FAQ

Can I use different types of sausages for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use your preferred type of sausages, such as pork, beef, or chicken.

What type of potatoes are best for mashing?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal as they become fluffy when mashed.

Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them before serving.

How can I make my gravy thicker?

You can thicken your gravy by adding a cornstarch slurry or simmering it longer to reduce.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute sausages with vegetarian options and use vegetable stock for the gravy.

Conclusion

Bangers and mash is a comforting and hearty dish that combines flavorful sausages with creamy mashed potatoes, often accompanied by rich gravy. This traditional meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and can easily be adapted to suit a variety of tastes. With its satisfying texture and delightful flavors, it is sure to be a family favorite for years to come.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Shepherd’s Pie

A classic British dish featuring a savory meat filling topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, perfect for using leftovers.

Toad in the Hole

A unique combination of sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding batter, served with onion gravy for a delightful twist.

Cauliflower Mash

A lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this dish pairs well with bangers and can add a nutritious touch.

Grilled Vegetable Medley

Roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables can provide a colorful and delicious side dish, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Onion Gravy

A rich and flavorful onion gravy is an excellent addition to bangers and mash, elevating the dish further with sweet and savory notes.

Colcannon

This Irish favorite combines mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale, adding a twist to your bangers and mash experience.

Crispy Kale Chips

For a crunchy side, try serving crispy kale chips, which complement the creamy mashed potatoes beautifully.

Apple Sauce

A tangy apple sauce can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of sausages, making it a delightful accompaniment.

Mustard and Pickles

Offering a variety of mustards and pickles on the side can add a zesty kick, enhancing your bangers and mash dish.