Savory Tofu and Chestnut Sausage Rolls Recipe

Irresistibly Flaky Tofu and Chestnut Sausage Rolls You’ll Love

Plant-based sausage rolls are a tasty treat in modern vegetarian cooking.

These savory snacks use creative and healthy ingredients to give traditional meat appetizers a new spin.

Tofu is the star, offering a protein-rich base that feels like real sausage.

Chestnuts add a gentle nutty taste and make the flavors richer.

Both casual cooks and seasoned kitchen experts love these veggie rolls as snacks or for special occasions.

They bring together good nutrition and stylish flair in this updated take on a beloved comfort food.

Why Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls Are So Tasty

  • Tackle Quick Weeknight Cooking: Whip up these delightful sausage rolls in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy families needing delicious meal solutions.
  • Craft Vegetarian Comfort: Transform traditional meat rolls into a plant-based masterpiece that delivers incredible flavor and satisfying texture using tofu and chestnuts.
  • Impress with Elegant Appetizers: Create stunning party snacks that look gourmet but require minimal culinary skills, suitable for casual gatherings or sophisticated events.
  • Master Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare filling in advance, assemble rolls quickly, and bake right before serving – ideal for meal prep and stress-free entertaining.

What Goes In Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls

Main Ingredients:

Pastry Base:
  • Puff Pastry: Flaky, buttery base that creates a crisp and golden exterior for the sausage rolls.
Protein and Filling:
  • Tofu, Chestnuts: Hearty and protein-rich combination that provides a meaty texture and nutty flavor for vegetarian sausage rolls.
  • Red Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling, creating a balanced flavor profile.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Rosemary, Thyme, Sage: Classic herb blend that gives a traditional savory and aromatic taste.
  • Tamari: Rich, umami soy sauce alternative that enhances overall flavor and helps achieve golden browning.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced taste and subtle heat.
Moisture and Binding Ingredients:
  • Cranberry Sauce: Sweet and tangy spread that adds moisture and complements the savory filling.
  • Chutney: Provides additional moisture and complex sweet-spicy flavor to the mixture.
Optional Garnish:
  • Sesame Seeds: Light, crunchy topping that adds visual appeal and subtle nutty texture.

Easy Prep For Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls

Step 1: Sauté Delicious Filling

  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat
  • Add red onion and cook until soft and translucent
  • Combine ingredients
  • Chestnuts
  • Rosemary
  • Thyme
  • Sage
  • Crumbled tofu
  • Tamari
  • Chutney
  • Cook mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally
  • Allow tofu to brown slightly
  • Season with salt and black pepper
  • Remove from heat and let cool completely

Step 2: Create Pastry Pockets

  • Warm oven to 200°C (fan mode)
  • Spread puff pastry on lined baking sheet
  • Cut pastry lengthwise into two equal strips
  • Spread cranberry sauce along one side of each pastry strip
  • Distribute tofu-chestnut filling over cranberry sauce
  • Fold pastry over filling
  • Press edges with fork to seal completely

Step 3: Bake Golden Rolls

  • Brush pastry with tamari for golden color
  • Slice each roll into 6-7 bite-sized pieces
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds on top (optional)
  • Bake for 22-25 minutes
  • Watch for golden and crispy exterior

Step 4: Serve and Savor

  • Allow rolls to cool slightly
  • Serve warm
  • Pair with extra cranberry sauce or chutney
  • Enjoy immediately

Tips For Cooking Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls

  • Boost Flavor Depth: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the filling for an extra layer of rich, complex taste that complements the chestnuts and tofu.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Swap traditional puff pastry with gluten-free alternatives made from rice or corn flour to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising texture.
  • Perfect Browning Technique: Ensure a golden, crispy exterior by applying an egg wash instead of tamari, which will give the pastry a more professional, glossy finish.
  • Enhance Nutritional Value: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or kale into the filling to boost vitamin content and add a subtle green color and earthy undertone.
  • Prep Ahead Strategy: Prepare the filling and assemble the rolls in advance, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking to save time and develop deeper flavors.

Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover sausage rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.
  • Reheat Oven: Warm refrigerated rolls at 180°C for 10-12 minutes to restore crispy pastry texture and ensure even heating.
  • Microwave Option: Quick reheat works, but pastry might lose crispness. Microwave for 30-45 seconds, then finish in a hot oven for 2-3 minutes to crisp up the exterior.

Perfect Pairings For Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls

  • Pair with Vibrant Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied Pinot Noir with earthy undertones that complement the chestnuts and herbs, enhancing the savory depth of the sausage rolls.
  • Match with Fresh Autumn Salad: Create a light apple and walnut salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pastry and provide a crisp textural contrast.
  • Serve Alongside Herbal Tea: Brew a warming sage or rosemary tea to mirror the herbal notes in the filling, creating a harmonious flavor experience that echoes the recipe's aromatic ingredients.
  • Complement with Cranberry Spritzer: Mix cranberry juice with sparkling water and a hint of orange zest to echo the cranberry sauce, offering a refreshing and bright accompaniment that cuts through the pastry's richness.

New Takes On Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Swap puff pastry with gluten-free pastry sheets or use almond flour-based dough for a celiac-friendly version. Replace tamari with coconut aminos to ensure complete gluten-free preparation.
  • Vegan Protein Boost: Substitute tofu with crumbled tempeh or plant-based ground meat alternative. Add nutritional yeast for extra depth of flavor and protein content.
  • Low-Carb Option: Replace pastry with thin sliced zucchini or eggplant as wrap. Use almond flour or coconut flour to create a low-carbohydrate coating for the filling.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Swap chestnuts with roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Use cauliflower crumbles as a texture-mimicking replacement to maintain similar consistency and nutritional profile.

Tofu And Chestnut Sausage Rolls Common Questions

  • Why use tofu in this sausage roll recipe?

Tofu provides a protein-rich, plant-based alternative to meat, creating a hearty and nutritious filling that absorbs the flavors of herbs and chestnuts perfectly.

  • How do chestnuts contribute to the flavor?

Chestnuts add a sweet, nutty taste and creamy texture to the filling, bringing depth and richness that complements the tofu and herbs beautifully.

  • Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls in advance, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

  • Are these sausage rolls suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! These sausage rolls are completely vegetarian, using tofu and plant-based ingredients to create a delicious meat-free alternative.

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Savory Tofu and Chestnut Sausage Rolls Recipe

Savory Tofu and Chestnut Sausage Rolls Recipe


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4.7 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory Tofu and Chestnut Sausage Rolls blend hearty plant-based proteins with rich seasonal flavors, creating a delightful British-inspired pastry. Crisp golden puff pastry and delectable filling make these rolls an irresistible snack you’ll crave for any gathering or casual meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 300 grams (10.6 ounces) firm tofu (drained and crumbled, e.g., Cauldron brand)
  • 180 grams (6.3 ounces) roasted chestnuts (roughly chopped)
  • 1 sheet puff pastry

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 red onion (finely diced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage

Seasoning and Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons tamari
  • 1 tablespoon red onion chutney
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons cranberry sauce
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for topping, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, warm olive oil over medium flame and gently sauté red onion until translucent and softened.
  2. Incorporate crumbled tofu, chopped chestnuts, and aromatic herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) into the softened onions.
  3. Drizzle tamari and chutney into the mixture, stirring continuously to blend flavors and allow tofu to develop a light golden color.
  4. Season the filling with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then set aside to cool completely.
  5. Unfurl puff pastry sheet and slice lengthwise into two equal rectangular sections.
  6. Spread a vibrant ribbon of cranberry sauce along the center of each pastry strip.
  7. Distribute the cooled tofu-chestnut filling evenly over the cranberry sauce.
  8. Carefully fold the pastry edges, creating a sealed parcel and crimp with a fork to secure the filling.
  9. Brush the exterior with additional tamari to ensure a rich, golden crust during baking.
  10. Using a sharp knife, segment each roll into bite-sized portions.
  11. Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds across the top for added texture and visual appeal.
  12. Slide into a preheated oven at 200°C and bake until pastry transforms into a crisp, golden-brown delicacy.
  13. Allow rolls to rest briefly before serving, accompanied by extra cranberry sauce or chutney for dipping.

Notes

  • Swap tofu with crumbled tempeh or seitan for different protein textures and flavor profiles.
  • Replace chestnuts with chopped mushrooms or walnuts to create alternative nutty and earthy undertones.
  • Ensure tofu is well-pressed and crumbled finely to achieve the most consistent and compact filling texture.
  • Use gluten-free puff pastry and ensure tamari is certified gluten-free to make this recipe
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

Classical & Contemporary Cooking Techniques, Global Cuisine Appreciation, Nutrition & Menu Engineering, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Farm-to-Table Cuisine

Education

Southwestern Oregon Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts, Associate of Applied Science
  • Focus: Emphasis on mastering core culinary competencies, like safety and sanitation, hot, cold, and pastry techniques, while cultivating appreciation of global cuisines and developing operational skills in nutrition, menu design, costing, purchasing, and supervisory management.

Michael grew up in Oregon, where he learned early that food tastes better when it’s fresh, local, and made with care. 

After earning his degree from the Southwestern Oregon Community College, he focused his career on teaching others how to cook with the seasons, reduce food waste, and reconnect with what’s on their plate.

Michael keeps his cooking simple, sustainable, and full of flavor. His favorite part of the process? Watching people realize how easy and satisfying it can be to cook a single great meal from scratch.

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