Scrapple
Scrapple is a comforting, savory dish combining ground pork sausage, herbs, and cornmeal, resulting in a hearty, flavorful loaf with a crispy exterior. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it offers a satisfying blend of spices and textures that appeal to those who enjoy traditional American comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, blend together 1 1/2 cups of cornmeal and 1 cup of water.
- In a large saucepan, combine ground pork sausage, dried sage leaves, salt, chopped parsley, and undiluted condensed chicken broth.
- Gradually stir in 2 cups of water, being careful to separate the sausage into fine pieces; bring to a boil.
- Slowly add the cornmeal mixture to the boiling mixture, stirring constantly with a wire whisk.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce to the sausage mixture. If you don’t have ground pork sausage, you can substitute with ground turkey or beef, adjusting the seasoning accordingly. Additionally, try incorporating some finely chopped onions or garlic for extra depth. Remember to whisk continuously when adding the cornmeal to prevent lumps.
Serving Suggestions
Scrapple is delicious served alongside eggs for breakfast or as a savory addition to a brunch spread. Pair it with warm maple syrup or apple butter to enhance its flavors. It goes well with toast or biscuits and can also be included in a hearty breakfast sandwich. For a complete meal, serve it with sautéed greens or alongside the classic Spinach Hors D'Oeuvres.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice the scrapple and pan-fry it in a little butter until crispy on both sides. You can also microwave it briefly, but for the best texture, stick to the stovetop method. Freezing is also an option; wrap slices tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scrapple contains roughly 217 calories, with 24g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (201% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), and potassium (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 965mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make scrapple without pork sausage?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or beef for the pork sausage. Be sure to adjust the seasoning to ensure the dish remains flavorful. While it may change the traditional taste, it can still be delicious. Experiment with herbs and spices to match your preference.
How do I know when the scrapple is cooked properly?
The scrapple is cooked when it has thickened and pulls away from the sides of the pan, which usually takes about 15 minutes of simmering. Once you pour it into a mold and let it set, it should hold together when sliced. When frying, it's done when the outside is crispy and golden brown.
Can I add vegetables to scrapple?
Absolutely! You can incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or celery into the sausage mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them first until softened before adding them to the pot. This will enhance the dish and provide a delightful texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).