Craving a hearty comfort dish? Look no further than Irish Bangers and Mash with Guinness Onion Gravy. This classic meal combines rich pork sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory gravy into one unforgettable plate. My easy recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring a delicious, satisfying experience. Join me as we explore the ingredients, cooking tips, and variations that elevate this beloved dish to new heights!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 8 Irish pork sausages
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup Guinness-flavored non-alcoholic beer (or dark stout)
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
The main star of this dish is the Irish pork sausages. They bring rich flavor and texture. The onions, cooked low and slow, add sweetness. Garlic enhances the taste, while the broth and beer create depth in the gravy.
For Mashed Potatoes
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– ½ cup milk
For the best mashed potatoes, use russet potatoes. They are fluffy and creamy when cooked. The butter and milk make them rich and smooth. You want a nice balance of creaminess without being too heavy.
Optional Garnishes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also use other herbs like chives or thyme. These garnishes not only beautify the dish but also enhance flavor.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Sausages
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil warms up, season 8 Irish pork sausages with salt and black pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the sausages to the skillet. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to turn them frequently. You want them to be browned and cooked through. After cooking, remove the sausages from the skillet and keep them warm.
Making the Guinness Onion Gravy
In the same skillet, add 4 large onions that you have thinly sliced. Cook them on medium-low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. You want the onions to be caramelized and golden brown. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. Next, pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of Guinness-flavored non-alcoholic beer. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and bring it all to a simmer.
Once simmering, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir constantly until the gravy thickens. Season your gravy with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and keep it warm.
Preparing the Mashed Potatoes
Now, let’s prepare the mashed potatoes. Take 4 large russet potatoes and peel them before cubing. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring it to a boil over high heat. When it starts boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
After cooking, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of milk. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the dish by placing a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate. Top it with 2 to 3 sausages and ladle the rich Guinness onion gravy over everything. Garnish with fresh parsley for that extra touch.
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sausages
– Choosing the right sausages: Select good-quality Irish pork sausages. Look for ones with a high meat content for better flavor. Check for spice blends that excite your taste buds.
– Cooking tips for best flavor: Start with a hot skillet and add vegetable oil. Sear the sausages for even browning. Turn them often to avoid burning. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This keeps them juicy and tasty.
Enhancing the Gravy
– Flavor additions: For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Try using a bit of mustard or thyme for a fragrant note. A dash of brown sugar can balance the flavors, too.
– Thickening alternatives: If cornstarch isn’t your style, use flour or mashed potatoes to thicken the gravy. You can also simmer it longer to reduce and intensify the flavor.
Mashed Potato Techniques
– For creaminess: Use russet potatoes for a fluffy texture. After boiling, let them steam dry for a few minutes. This helps to remove excess moisture.
– Avoiding lumps: Use a potato ricer for smoothness. If you mash by hand, be gentle to avoid overworking. Add warm milk and butter to blend easily, making a silky finish.
These tips will elevate your Irish bangers and mash with Guinness onion gravy. Follow along with the Full Recipe for a delightful meal!
Variations
Different Types of Sausages
You can change the flavor of your bangers with different sausages. Irish pork sausages are the classic choice, but you might try others too.
– Chicken sausages offer a lighter option.
– Beef sausages add a rich, hearty taste.
– Spicy sausages bring a kick to your dish.
For healthier substitutes, look for lower-fat sausage options. Turkey sausages are a great choice. They taste good and cut back on fat.
Alternative Gravy Bases
You can switch up the gravy base for different tastes. Using different types of beer can add depth.
– Lager gives a light flavor.
– Stout adds a dark, rich taste.
If you want a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also use mushrooms to give the gravy a savory flavor.
Creative Mashed Potato Additions
Don’t stop at plain mashed potatoes! You can make them extra special.
– Cheesy variations: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for a creamy, rich twist.
– Roasted garlic or herbs: Mix in roasted garlic for a sweet, nutty taste. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can brighten up the dish.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this comforting meal.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store your leftovers in a sealed container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure they are cool before you seal them. You can safely eat refrigerated bangers and mash for up to three days. After that, the flavor and texture may change.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze bangers and mash, but keep them separate. Place the sausages in one container and the mashed potatoes in another. This helps maintain their quality. For the gravy, use a freezer-safe bag. When you want to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat the bangers in a skillet over medium heat. For the mash, warm them in a pot with a splash of milk. The gravy can be reheated in a saucepan over low heat.
Keeping the Gravy Fresh
Store your leftover gravy in a sealed container too. It stays good for about three days in the fridge. To reheat, pour it into a small pot and warm it gently. Stir often to keep it smooth. If it gets too thick, add a little water or broth to return its creamy texture. For a delicious meal any day, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
What can I serve with Irish Bangers and Mash?
You can serve Irish Bangers and Mash with many tasty sides. Here are some great options:
– Traditional side dishes:
– Peas: Fresh or mushy peas add color and flavor.
– Cabbage: Sautéed cabbage pairs well and adds crunch.
– Carrots: Roasted or steamed carrots give a sweet touch.
– Beverage pairings:
– Irish stout: A classic choice that complements the dish.
– Cider: A crisp apple cider can brighten the meal.
– Sparkling water: A refreshing option for a lighter drink.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips:
– Preparation:
– Cook the sausages and gravy as directed.
– Prepare the mashed potatoes and keep them warm.
– Reheating tips:
– Store everything in separate containers in the fridge.
– Reheat the sausages and gravy on the stove over low heat.
– Add a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes while reheating to keep them creamy.
How do I make the dish gluten-free?
You can make this dish gluten-free with simple swaps. Here’s how:
– Ingredient substitutions:
– Use gluten-free sausages. Check labels for gluten-free options.
– Replace regular beer with gluten-free beer or broth.
– Use cornstarch for thickening instead of any flour.
– Cooking techniques for gluten-free versions:
– Cook everything as you normally would.
– Be sure to keep surfaces clean to avoid cross-contamination.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Irish Bangers and Mash combines tasty sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy. You can make it your own with different sausages or unique gravy bases. Remember to follow the steps for the best results, and don’t forget to store leftovers properly.
In the end, this dish offers comfort and warmth. Enjoy the process of cooking and share it with loved ones. Your kitchen can become a place of joy and flavors!
