Cider-Braised Apple and Pork Sausage Casserole with Sage Crust

Ingredients

• pork sausages8
• apples, cored and chunked2 large
• onion, sliced1 large
• dry cider350 ml
• chicken stock250 ml
• Dijon mustard1 tbsp
• sage leaves, finely chopped2 tbsp
• breadcrumbs80 g
• butter35 g
• flour1 tbsp
• black pepperto taste

Method

1. 1Heat the oven to 200°C.
2. 2Brown the sausages in a large oven-safe pan, then lift them out and set aside.
3. 3Add the onion and apples to the pan and cook until lightly caramelized, then stir in the flour for a minute.
4. 4Pour in the cider and stock, add the mustard and black pepper, and bring to a simmer.
5. 5Return the sausages to the pan and cook gently for 10 minutes so the flavors start to mingle.
6. 6Mix the breadcrumbs with sage and melted butter, scatter over the casserole, and transfer to the oven.
7. 7Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is crisp and the sauce is bubbling thickly around the edges.

Tips

• Use firm apples so they hold their shape in the sauce.
• A little extra mustard sharpens the sweetness of the cider and fruit.
• Serve with buttery mash or crusty bread to catch the sauce.

Nutrition