How To Cook Saveloys Sausage (3 Easy Methods, So You Don’t Split Them)

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The saveloy, or cocktail sausage, is a standard favorite for any occasion, from kids’ parties to football gatherings to afternoon get-togethers. It’s hard to resist a cocktail sausage!

A saveloy is a highly seasoned sausage usually made of finely ground pork mince encased in a bright red edible casing. It can traditionally be found in fish and chip shops and fast food outlets or can be store-bought.

It’s a versatile little snack that can be prepared in numerous ways—boiled, deep-fried, smoked, or grilled. In theory, the art of cooking the saveloy is simple, but one false move will split the casing, sending sausage meat everywhere!

So, how do you cook these tasty treats without splitting them apart and losing flavor and aesthetics? Let’s explore the ways…

Stovetop Cooking

If you’re anything like me, you’ll throw a pan of hot water on the stove, throw the raw sausage in while it’s boiling, and hope for the best. The result, however, is usually an unsightly mess of burst cocktail sausage.

However, a little care and attention will avoid this, and perfectly cooked sausages will be served every time. The secret is slowly and gently cooking the meat inside while keeping the casing intact.

1. To begin, place the saucepan of water on the stove and bring it to a boil.
2. Once boiling, switch the hotplate off and put the saveloys in water. Replace the lid on top and leave it to steam for 10 minutes. To tell if the sausage is cooked, it needs to be 160°F. Check with a thermometer, then drain, serve, and enjoy.

An alternative method is;

1. Place in a pan of cold water and add a splash of vinegar for taste.
2. Gently bring to a gentle simmer, adding the sausages as the water begins to boil.
3. Cook for approximately 20 minutes, keeping the water at a moderate boil. The more agitated the boiling water, the more likely they are to split.

Microwave Oven Method

Cooking your saveloys in the microwave is the quickest method. However, you need to be careful not to overcook them and have them split. You also need to constantly open the microwave door and check them.

1. Place enough water in a microwave-safe dish to cover the saveloys. Again, gently heat the water—the cooking time will vary depending on the power of your microwave oven.
2. Cook in 5-minute bursts until the sausages are steaming and warmed through. This will give you a nice, moist sausage while keeping the casing intact. Try adding some smoked salt to add some extra flavor to your saveloys.

Another Method Is;

1. Sandwich the sausages between a sheet of kitchen towel to absorb any fat the sausages might spit on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Program the microwave oven to full power for 30 seconds, and heat the sausages.
3. Remove with oven gloves, as the cocktail sausages will be steamy and hot.

Frying or Oven Baking

If you prefer your saveloys with crisp skin, frying or oven baking could be a great alternative.

1. Coat them lightly in olive oil and roast them on an oven tray at medium heat, rotating once or twice, for 10-15 minutes.
2. Heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan to fry the cocktail sausages. Cook the sausages gently in the oil for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently to prevent burning until thoroughly cooked.
3. Don’t pierce the skin, as this will release moisture and flavor. Cook the sausages over moderate heat; too high a temperature will burst the skins.

A Versatile Snack

On the whole, the saveloy is one of those versatile little ready-to-eat foods that are great to have on hand. They can be stored in the vacuum-sealed packaging for 3-4 weeks, once opened 1-2 weeks, or stored in the freezer for longer periods. 

When you’re ready for a tasty snack, simply cook your preferred way, from either defrosted or frozen and enjoy!

Smoke On!

Charlie

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