Scotch eggs

Scotch eggs are a classic British snack featuring hard-boiled eggs encased in a seasoned ground beef mixture and fried until golden. They offer a flavorful combination of spices and a satisfying crunch, perfect for any occasion.

24 Nov 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 80 min

Ingredients:

6 eggs
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 red hot chili peppers
2 tbsp spice mix
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
Scotch eggs

Scotch eggs are a delightful British treat, combining hard-boiled eggs, flavorful ground meat, and a crispy outer coating. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a hearty breakfast, these protein-packed delights are sure to impress with their bold flavors and satisfying texture.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggs:
1. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 6 minutes for soft-boiled or 8-9 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.
4. Drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool.
5. Once cooled, carefully peel the eggs and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and finely chopped red hot chili peppers.
2. Add the spice mix, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Wrap the Eggs:
1. Divide the beef mixture into 6 equal portions.
2. Flatten a portion of the beef mixture in your hand or on a piece of plastic wrap.
3. Place a peeled egg in the center and gently wrap the beef mixture around the egg, ensuring it is completely covered.
4. Repeat with the remaining eggs and beef mixture.
4. Coat the Wrapped Eggs:
- (Optional) Roll each meat-wrapped egg in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
5. Fry the Scotch Eggs:
1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the wrapped eggs to the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the fryer or skillet; fry in batches if necessary.
3. Fry each egg for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the meat is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the Scotch eggs and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve:
- Allow the Scotch eggs to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm or cold, optionally with mustard or a dipping sauce of your choice.

With their perfect blend of spicy, savory, and hearty ingredients, Scotch eggs make a versatile and delicious dish. Whether you serve them warm or cold, they are sure to be a hit on any table. Enjoy your homemade Scotch eggs with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Scotch eggs FAQ:

How long do I boil the eggs for Scotch Eggs?

For Scotch Eggs, boil the eggs for 6 minutes for soft-boiled or 8-9 minutes for hard-boiled. After boiling, cool them in ice water before peeling.

What can I substitute for ground beef in Scotch Eggs?

You can substitute ground pork, turkey, or chicken for the ground beef in Scotch Eggs. Keep in mind that adjusting the spices may be necessary for different meats.

How should I store leftover Scotch Eggs?

Store leftover Scotch Eggs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in an oven for best results.

What size pan should I use for frying Scotch Eggs?

Use a large, deep skillet or a deep fryer to fry Scotch Eggs. The pan should be deep enough to hold at least 2 inches of oil for even frying.

How do I know when the Scotch Eggs are done cooking?

Scotch Eggs are done when the meat is fully cooked and golden brown, usually after frying for about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature of the meat reaches 160°F (71°C).

Tips:

- Prepare Ingredients: Make sure to chop the onion, garlic, and chili peppers finely to ensure an even distribution of flavors throughout the ground beef mixture.

- Cook Eggs to Perfection: For a slightly runny yolk, boil the eggs for about 6-7 minutes. For firm yolks, boil for around 9-10 minutes. Immediately transfer boiled eggs to ice water to stop the cooking process and make peeling easier.

- Chill the Meat Mixture: For easier handling, refrigerate the seasoned ground beef mixture for 30 minutes before wrapping it around the eggs.

- Firmly Press the Meat: Ensure the ground beef mixture is securely wrapped around each egg to prevent it from falling apart during cooking. Use wet hands to prevent sticking.

- Fry Correctly: To achieve a golden-brown, crispy coating, deep fry the wrapped eggs in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) until the outside is crispy and the meat is cooked through.

- Oven Finish Option: If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the Scotch eggs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is thoroughly cooked.

- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the spice mix to suit your taste preferences. You can add more chili peppers for extra heat or additional herbs for more aromatic flavors.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 460kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 1.10g
Sugar 3.55g
Fat 33g

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