Are you tired of bland, store-bought sausage? Do you crave the satisfying flavor of homemade goodness but fear the complexity? Fear not! This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Alton Brown, simplifies the sausage-making process, delivering perfectly seasoned, juicy links that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste. Get ready to elevate your breakfast, brunch, or dinner game with this quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 1 pound of sausage.
- 1 pound ground pork (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup ice water (or more, as needed)
- Sausage casings (natural or collagen, approximately 32-36 inches) – Available at most butchers or well-stocked grocery stores.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground pork, black pepper, sage, nutmeg, thyme, cloves, and kosher salt. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage tough.
Step 2: Adding Moisture
Slowly drizzle in the ice water, mixing gently until the mixture just comes together. The goal is to achieve a slightly sticky consistency – not too wet, not too dry. If needed, add a tablespoon of ice water at a time until you reach the desired texture. This is a crucial step in ensuring juicy sausages.
Step 3: Stuffing the Casings
If using natural casings, soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes to soften them. This makes stuffing easier. Attach one end of the casing to your sausage stuffer (if using one) or a large zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Carefully fill the casing, leaving a couple of inches empty at each end to allow for expansion during cooking.
Step 4: Forming the Links
Twist the filled casing at 2-3 inch intervals to form individual sausage links. Tie off the ends securely.
Step 5: Cooking the Sausage
You have several options for cooking these delicious homemade sausages:
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausages for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sausages on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and browned. Again, check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the sausages for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely charred. Remember that internal temperature is key – 160°F (71°C).
Tips for Sausage Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can lead to tough sausages. Gentle mixing is key!
- Use cold ingredients: Cold ingredients help prevent the fat from rendering too quickly during cooking.
- Proper temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your sausages reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Get creative with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profiles.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a kick.
- Italian Sausage: Substitute fennel seeds and red pepper flakes for some of the other spices.
- Breakfast Sausage: Omit the cloves and add a little maple syrup to the mixture for a sweeter flavor.
Nutritional Information (per sausage, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your sausages and the type of ground pork used. It's best to use a nutritional calculator for a precise measurement once you've determined the size of your sausages. However, generally speaking, you can expect a fairly high protein content and moderate fat content. These sausages are a delicious and satisfying part of a balanced diet.
This homemade sausage recipe is a testament to the joy of homemade cooking. The process is surprisingly simple, and the result is a delicious and flavorful sausage that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!