Air-Fryer Scotch Eggs

Air-Fryer Scotch Eggs are known for their crispy and flavorful exterior combined with a tender and perfectly boiled egg center. This recipe takes the classic concept of Scotch eggs—hard-boiled eggs wrapped in sausage—and gives it a healthier twist by cooking them in an air fryer instead of deep-frying.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 8 ounces (225g) ground sausage (pork or chicken)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or parsley)
• Optional: additional breadcrumbs for coating
• Optional: oil spray for the air fryer basket

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 6-7 minutes for medium-boiled eggs. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired yolk consistency (less for softer yolks, more for harder yolks).
3. Once cooked, transfer the boiled eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool them down quickly. Once cooled, carefully peel off the shells and set the eggs aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground sausage, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. Mix the ingredients together until well combined.
5. Divide the sausage mixture into four equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it in your hand to form a patty. Place a boiled egg in the center and gently mold the sausage mixture around the egg, ensuring it is completely covered. Repeat this step for the remaining eggs.
6. Optional: Roll each sausage-wrapped egg in additional breadcrumbs to create a crispy coating.
7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the Scotch eggs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each egg for even cooking.
8. Cook the Scotch eggs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Flip the eggs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
9. Once cooked, carefully remove the Scotch eggs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Scotch Eggs Tips：

• Be cautious while handling the boiled eggs, as they can be delicate and may break easily.
• Adjust the cooking time for the boiled eggs according to your preference for yolk consistency.
• You can use any type of ground sausage you prefer, such as pork or chicken. You can also add additional seasonings or spices to the sausage mixture to customize the flavor.
• Make sure to completely cover the boiled eggs with the sausage mixture to prevent them from leaking or bursting during cooking.
• Rolling the Scotch eggs in breadcrumbs is optional but adds a crispy and textured coating. You can also experiment with using crushed cornflakes or other coatings for variety.
• Spray the air fryer basket with oil or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Ensure that the Scotch eggs are placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking. If needed, cook them in batches.
• Serve the Air-Fryer Scotch Eggs as a delicious and protein-packed snack, appetizer, or even as a breakfast option. They can be enjoyed on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your Air-Fryer Scotch Eggs—a delightful twist on a classic dish, with a crispy exterior and a savory sausage coating that encases perfectly boiled eggs.