Curried Sausages

Curried Sausages are a delicious throwback to classic comfort food, bringing together browned sausages with a rich and flavorful curry-infused gravy. The sauce, brimming with sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, and peas, complements the sausages perfectly. It’s a dish that packs warmth and coziness in every bite, making it an ideal choice for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner.

Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or even buttered noodles, the simple yet robust flavors make this dish a versatile favorite for the whole family. The mild curry spice adds just the right touch of flavor without overwhelming the sausages, making it both kid-friendly and loved by adults alike.

Full Recipe:

0.5 tbsp oil
600g / 1.2lb sausages (pork, chicken, or beef)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, halved and sliced
1 carrot, peeled and sliced on the diagonal
1 tbsp curry powder (mild or hot, as preferred)
3 tbsp flour (substitute with cornflour/cornstarch for gluten-free)
2 cups (500ml) chicken stock or broth, low sodium
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup frozen peas

Directions:

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausages and cook until browned all over, then remove them from the skillet. Optionally, slice sausages on the diagonal.
In the same skillet, add garlic and onion. Sauté for 2 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the curry powder and cook for 30 seconds to release its flavors.
Add flour and mix for another 30 seconds.
Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring to create a smooth mixture.
Add carrots, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Return the sausages and add the peas to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens into a gravy-like consistency.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or noodles. For a low-carb option, try mashed cauliflower!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 569 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

Curried Sausages: A Retro Comfort Dish

Curried Sausages is a classic dish that’s been around for decades, evoking nostalgia and memories of home-cooked family meals. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines sausages, a mildly spiced curry gravy, and vegetables like carrots and peas to create a hearty, warm, and satisfying dish. It’s an iconic example of how humble ingredients can transform into a crowd-pleaser that is suitable for all ages and occasions.

Origin and Popularity

The origins of Curried Sausages trace back to Australia and the UK, where it became a popular dish in the 1970s and 1980s. At that time, adding curry powder to sausages was a clever way to introduce exotic flavors to a weeknight dinner without needing specialized ingredients or techniques. Over time, it became a beloved comfort food in many households. While the flavors are not as complex as those found in traditional Indian curries, Curried Sausages present a simpler, Westernized take on curry that’s quick to make and a favorite for many.

What Makes This Recipe Unique

Quick and Simple Preparation: The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It requires only a few pantry staples, and the total cooking time is under 30 minutes. Browning the sausages adds depth to the flavor of the gravy, and sautéing the onions and garlic creates a savory base.
Versatility with Sausages & Flavors: You can use any sausages you prefer, from pork and beef to chicken or plant-based options. The curry flavor can also be adjusted to taste, whether you like it mild and mellow or spicy and bold.
Family-Friendly Appeal: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights as it provides a hearty and nutritious meal with a balance of protein and vegetables. The mild curry flavor is gentle enough for kids but flavorful enough for adults to enjoy.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions: Curried Sausages are most often served over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, which help soak up the savory gravy. For a healthier twist, consider pairing it with mashed cauliflower, quinoa, or a side of steamed vegetables. You can also add extra vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or potatoes to bulk up the dish further.

Cooking Tips & Variations

Gluten-Free Option: For those who are gluten-intolerant, use cornflour or cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of regular flour. Simply mix it with water to create a slurry before adding it to the skillet.
Vegetable Additions: While the traditional recipe includes carrots and peas, you can make this dish your own by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These will not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional content.
Vegan or Vegetarian Alternative: Swap out the meat sausages for your favorite plant-based sausages to create a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish. Ensure that the curry powder and other ingredients are vegan-friendly, and you can enjoy all the flavors without any animal products.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little kick, opt for a hot curry powder or add a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce. For a deeper curry flavor, adding a bit of ginger or cumin can elevate the dish to new levels.

Nutritional Information

Curried Sausages are a hearty meal that offers a great balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Depending on the type of sausage you choose, this dish can be made lighter by opting for leaner meats like chicken sausages. Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 569 calories, 28g of protein, and 42g of fat, making it a satisfying option that will keep you full and energized.

A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for Any Occasion

Curried Sausages are perfect for a cozy family dinner, potluck gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead. This dish appeals to a wide range of tastes, and its simplicity and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for those seeking comfort food with a twist. The lightly spiced curry gravy brings warmth and familiarity, while the browned sausages add heartiness, resulting in a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Origins and Cultural Significance

Curried Sausages are a dish that has an interesting place in culinary history. While it is not a traditional Indian curry, the idea of adding curry powder to Western dishes emerged during the period when British cuisine was influenced by colonial ties to India. Curry powder, which is a blend of various spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, became widely available in the West in the 19th and 20th centuries, leading to its use in recipes like Curried Sausages. This recipe represents the Western adaptation of Indian flavors, making curry more approachable for the everyday cook.

In Australia and New Zealand, Curried Sausages are seen as a classic family dish—one that parents might make for their children, as it’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and uses familiar ingredients. It evokes a sense of nostalgia for many, as it’s often passed down through generations and prepared during childhood. The curry gravy, mild and slightly sweet, introduces flavors that are different from standard sausage dishes, but still comforting and homely.

A Dish for All Seasons

The beauty of Curried Sausages is that they are highly versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. During colder months, the warm and spicy gravy provides a comforting meal that pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice to create a filling, satisfying dinner. In warmer months, you can serve the sausages with a lighter side like a garden salad, roasted vegetables, or even couscous for a refreshing twist.

Easy Steps for Meal Prep

Curried Sausages are an excellent choice for meal prepping, as they store well and taste even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. Here are some tips for preparing them ahead:

Batch Cooking: Make a larger portion of the dish, as it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Divide it into airtight containers for easy, portioned meals.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy, as it may thicken when stored.
Customizable Sides: Have a selection of sides ready, like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. This makes assembling your meals quick and easy, no matter what you’re craving.

Flavors and Seasoning

While curry powder is the star spice of this dish, the type and quantity of curry powder can significantly alter the flavor profile. A mild curry powder adds warmth and gentle spice, suitable for kids or those who prefer milder tastes. A hot or medium curry powder, however, can introduce more heat and depth, making the dish more complex. If you wish to create a unique twist, you can add coconut milk for a creamier texture and richer taste or add chopped tomatoes to the gravy for a tangy note.

If you’d like to enhance the flavor even further, consider adding additional seasonings like:

Garam Masala: A blend of warm spices that complements the curry powder.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with cilantro or parsley to add freshness to the dish.
Aromatic Spices: For more depth, you can add ground coriander, cumin, or ginger while sautéing the onion and garlic.

Modern Variations to Explore

Creamy Curried Sausages: Add a touch of cream or coconut milk to the gravy for a richer and creamier sauce. This version is a favorite for those who enjoy a smoother and milder taste.
Sweet & Spicy Fusion: A spoonful of mango chutney or apricot jam stirred into the gravy introduces a slight sweetness that balances the curry’s spice, creating a sweet and savory combination.
Sheet Pan Curried Sausages: For a hands-off approach, bake sausages and vegetables on a sheet pan and pour over a curry-spiced sauce towards the end of cooking. This allows the sausages and veggies to get a lovely roasted flavor while still soaking in the curry sauce.
One-Pot Curried Sausages with Lentils: If you want to add more protein and fiber, add canned lentils to the gravy. The lentils absorb the flavors well and make the dish heartier.

Pairing Suggestions

Curried Sausages go wonderfully with a variety of sides. Depending on your preference, you can pair the dish with:

Fluffy Basmati Rice: The classic pairing for the curry flavor that absorbs the gravy well and provides a light, aromatic side.
Cauliflower Rice or Mashed Cauliflower: For a lower-carb alternative, cauliflower is an excellent base that keeps the dish light while adding a hint of nuttiness.
Buttery Mashed Potatoes: A comforting and creamy side that pairs perfectly with the flavorful curry gravy.
Pasta or Egg Noodles: An unexpected but delicious pairing, as the curry sauce clings well to noodles, creating a flavorful and comforting dish.
Crusty Bread or Garlic Naan: Use bread or naan to mop up the delicious curry gravy—ideal for a casual, hands-on meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is packed with protein and essential nutrients, thanks to the sausages and added vegetables. Depending on the sausages used, you can adjust the fat and calorie content. For example, using lean chicken sausages lowers the fat content, making the dish lighter while still retaining its savory flavors. Additionally, incorporating vegetables like carrots and peas adds dietary fiber, vitamins (like Vitamin A and C), and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Time-Saver: With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, Curried Sausages are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes.
Adaptable to Preferences: The dish can be made to suit various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian, allowing you to cater to different tastes in your family.
Hearty and Flavorful: The combination of browned sausages and curry gravy delivers a rich flavor that’s comforting and satisfying, making it a dish that everyone will come back to for seconds.

Conclusion

Curried Sausages are a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the warmth of curry spices with hearty sausages and veggies. This retro recipe is quick to make, versatile for different tastes and dietary needs, and perfect for cozy family dinners or easy meal prepping. Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes, or paired with a fresh salad, it brings comfort and delicious nostalgia to any table. Enjoy this timeless, adaptable dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!