1. Prepare the Boiled Eggs:
- Place 6 eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 4 to 6 minutes for soft-boiled eggs or about 9 to 12 minutes for hard-boiled eggs, depending on your preference.
- Once cooked, immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool. This stops the cooking process and makes peeling easier.
- Peel the eggs once they are cool enough to handle.
2. Prepare the Sausage Meat:
- In a bowl, mix the sausage meat with thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions.
3. Wrap the Eggs:
- Flatten each portion of sausage meat into a thin oval shape on a sheet of plastic wrap or wax paper.
- Place a boiled egg in the center of each flattened sausage meat portion and wrap the meat around the egg, using the plastic wrap to help mold the meat around the egg evenly. Ensure the egg is completely encased in the sausage meat.
4. Coat the Eggs:
- Prepare three bowls – one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Roll each sausage-wrapped egg in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip them into the beaten egg, and then roll them in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
5. Fry the Scotch Eggs:
- Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the eggs into the hot oil and fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your fryer or pan.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the Scotch Eggs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve:
- Scotch Eggs can be served hot or at room temperature. They’re often enjoyed with dipping sauces such as mustard, mayonnaise, or a spicy chutney.
These delicious Scotch Eggs offer a wonderful mix of textures and flavors, from the crispy breadcrumb coating to the savory sausage meat and the tender egg inside. Whether you’re making them for a picnic, a snack, or breakfast, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy crafting this traditional British delicacy in your own kitchen!