Growing up, I remember the comforting smell of mashed potatoes filling the house every Sunday. It wasn’t just any mashed potatoes-it was a classic British dish, bangers and mash. My mum often made it, especially in winter. The sausages sizzling in the pan, the mashed potatoes creamy and soft, and a rich onion gravy poured over the top. Every bite was like a warm hug.
When I stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s version of bangers and mash, I knew it would bring back that nostalgic feeling. His recipe takes the humble dish and adds some modern flair without losing the essence of what makes it so comforting.
Jamie’s approach to cooking is all about simplicity and bold flavors, and this bangers and mash recipe is no different. It’s straightforward, but with a little extra something that makes it special.
Jamie Oliver’s Bangers And Mash Recipe
Jamie’s bangers and mash are rooted in tradition but with a contemporary twist. His recipe starts with high-quality sausages and a mix of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Then, he brings in a punchy onion gravy and some fresh herbs. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Here’s the breakdown of what makes Jamie’s take on bangers and mash stand out:
- Quality sausages: No cheap supermarket sausages here. Jamie uses a blend of pork and fresh herbs, making sure each sausage has flavor and texture.
- Rich gravy: The gravy is made from caramelized onions and beef stock. It adds richness and a little sweetness.
- Creamy mash: The mashed potatoes are buttery and velvety, almost like a cloud on your plate.
Ingredients Needed
Jamie’s recipe requires a few basic ingredients, but the key is choosing high-quality items that elevate the flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sausages (6): The star of the show. Go for a mix of pork and herb sausages. The quality of the sausage will make a big difference in flavor.
- Potatoes (about 900g): Choose floury potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward for that fluffy texture.
- Butter (75g): Use good butter for the mash-something that’ll add richness and creaminess.
- Milk (250ml): You’ll need whole milk for the mash to give it that smooth consistency.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): For frying the sausages and onions.
- Onions (2 large): Sliced thinly. They’ll become sweet and caramelized in the gravy.
- Beef stock (250ml): A rich stock is key to creating a deep flavor for the gravy.
- Fresh thyme (a few sprigs): It adds a subtle herbal note that pairs perfectly with the sausages.
- Salt and pepper: To season everything.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Bangers And Mash
Making Jamie’s bangers and mash is simple but requires a bit of attention to detail. Here’s how you do it:
- Start the mash: Peel and chop your potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water for about 15 minutes, until they’re soft and ready to mash.
- Cook the sausages: While the potatoes cook, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook them for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden and cooked through.
- Make the gravy: In the same pan, toss in the sliced onions and cook them over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they caramelize, about 10 minutes. Once the onions are golden, add the beef stock and thyme. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Once the sausages are cooked, place them on a plate, add a generous serving of mashed potatoes, and pour over the rich onion gravy. Garnish with extra thyme if you like.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
The beauty of bangers and mash lies in how each ingredient interacts to create a comforting whole. Here’s a deep dive into the science behind some key elements:
- Potatoes: The starches in potatoes gelatinize when heated, making them soft and fluffy when mashed. The type of potato you use is crucial-waxy potatoes like new potatoes won’t give you that light texture, while floury ones like Maris Piper break down into a smooth, fluffy mash.
- Sausages: The protein in sausages creates that satisfying bite when you cook them. The fat inside the sausage melts during cooking, releasing flavor and helping to crisp up the casing, which provides a contrast to the smooth potatoes.
- Onion gravy: When onions caramelize, the natural sugars break down and create complex flavors. This sweet, umami-packed gravy is the perfect foil for the savory sausages and creamy mash.
Expert Tips
To elevate your bangers and mash game, here are some expert tips:
- For smoother mash: Use a potato ricer instead of a masher. This creates a silky texture with no lumps.
- Sausage choice: Don’t skimp on sausages. Look for butcher-quality sausages or those with fresh herbs and good fat content.
- Gravy depth: For extra richness, you can add a splash of red wine or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the gravy. It’ll give it an additional layer of flavor.
- Crispy finish: Once the sausages are cooked, you can crisp them up by finishing them under the grill for 2-3 minutes. This adds a satisfying crunch.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie’s version is classic, you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some variations:
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausages made from lentils, mushrooms, or soy protein. They’ll soak up the flavors of the gravy just like traditional sausages.
- Mashed potato twists: Try adding roasted garlic, cheese, or even horseradish to your mash for a fun twist.
- Add vegetables: Serve your bangers and mash with a side of sautéed greens like spinach or peas for a touch of freshness and color.
Final Words
Bangers and mash is one of those dishes that never gets old. It’s humble, comforting, and satisfying in its simplicity. Jamie Oliver’s version takes it a step further with rich, flavorful gravy and creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking to make a quick, hearty meal, this recipe has you covered.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Bangers And Mash Recipe Different?
Jamie Oliver’s version stands out with a rich onion gravy and a mix of herbs that adds depth to the traditional dish.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Sausage For Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?
Yes, you can swap the sausages for any type you prefer, but pork sausages work best for the classic flavor.
How Do I Make The Mashed Potatoes Creamy Like Jamie Oliver’s?
To get creamy mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes, mash them well, and mix in butter, cream, and a bit of milk for smoothness.