Spicy Sausages Patties with Lettuce Wraps

These sassy little sausage discs can be made ahead and quickly cooked when it’s time for supper.

1 lb. good quality pork sausage
1 tsp. grated, peeled ginger
1 green chili, deseeded and finely chopped
1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
2 tsp. English mustard
1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed
zest of 1 lemon
2 thin or 1 fat scallion
2 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro
1 tbs. vegetable oil
lettuce leaves, to serve
pita breads, to serve

Squeeze the sausage meat out of the casing into a large bowl. Add the ginger, chilies, mustard, garlic, lemon zest, scallion and cilantro. Mix gently, yet thoroughly and form into approx. 16 patties.

Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes a side, or until browned and cooked through. Serve them wrapped in lettuce and/or in pita breads.

Petit Pois a la Francaise

Here is an easy side dish that complements almost anything.

3 scallions, or 2 shallots, sliced
3 tbs. butter
1/2 tsp. garlic olive oil
1 baby gem lettuce, shredded
2 cups frozen peas
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock

Cook the scallions or shallots in the butter and olive oil until softened. Stir in the lettuce until wilted, then add the peas and stock. Cook at a robust simmer until everything is tender and the liquid has reduced.

Season and serve