Belgian waffles, known for their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, have been a breakfast staple across the globe for decades. But what happens when you pair this iconic dish with savory sausage? You get the perfect fusion of sweet and savory: Belgian Waffle Sausages, an exciting take on a traditional breakfast, ideal for brunches or quick snacks.
Ingredients
To make Belgian Waffle Sausage, you’ll need the following basic ingredients:
For the waffles:
-
- 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons of baking powder
- 2 large eggs (separated)
- 1 ¾ cups milk
- ½ cup oil (vegetable or canola)
- A pinch of salt
For the sausage mix:
-
-
- 1 lb ground sausage (your choice of breakfast sausage)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional for a sweet touch)
- A sprinkle of sage or thyme (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
-
Method
Prepare the sausage:
Cook the ground sausage in a skillet until brown, breaking it into small crumbles. If desired, add a tablespoon of maple syrup for a sweet twist and season with sage or thyme, along with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make the waffle batter:
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which helps keep the waffles light and airy. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the egg yolks, milk, and oil to the dry mixture, mixing until just combined. Carefully fold in the whipped egg whites for a light batter.
Combine sausage with batter:
Gently fold the cooled sausage crumbles into the waffle batter. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the waffles to remain fluffy while distributing the sausage evenly.
Cook the waffles:
Preheat your Belgian waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour a scoop of the sausage-infused waffle batter into the iron and cook according to the waffle maker’s instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve:
Serve the waffles hot with a range of toppings such as maple syrup, a dollop of butter, or even a side of eggs. The savory sausage with the light sweetness of the waffles creates a balanced flavor profile that’s sure to please everyone.
Customizations and Toppings
The Belgian Waffle Sausage recipe can be customized depending on your preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using spicy Italian sausage or chorizo. Alternatively, bacon can replace sausage for a crispier texture. You can even mix cheese, such as cheddar, into the batter for an extra layer of richness.
Popular toppings for Belgian waffles include powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate, but for a more savory experience, try pairing your waffle sausages with a fried egg or hollandaise sauce.. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a touch of caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the depth of flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
The blend of light, fluffy waffle batter with hearty sausage is a match made in culinary heaven. The waffles provide the perfect backdrop, offering a mildly sweet canvas to complement the richness of the sausage. The separation and whipping of the egg whites ensure that the waffle retains its signature light texture, even with the heavier sausage incorporated.
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be made ahead of time. Waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for a quick meal on the go, which makes them perfect for busy mornings.
Health Considerations
Though Belgian Waffle Sausage may not be the lightest breakfast option due to the use of ground sausage and oil, you can easily adjust the recipe for a healthier version. Opt for lean turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork, or replace half the oil in the batter with applesauce for a lower-fat version.You can also add a handful of chopped vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to introduce extra nutrients to the mix.
Conclusion
Belgian Waffle Sausage is a unique and exciting twist on traditional breakfast fare. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a new go-to breakfast recipe, this savory-sweet fusion is sure to be a hit. Combining the crispy, light texture of a Belgian waffle with the savory richness of sausage, this dish offers the best of both worlds in one delicious bite.
