Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings and delicious food. This garlic summer sausage recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a burst of savory flavor that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for appetizers, snacking, or adding a gourmet touch to your next picnic, this homemade sausage is a delicious alternative to store-bought options. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant recipe. It's a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that doesn't compromise on taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground pork (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
- 1/4 cup ice water
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Sausage stuffer (or a large zip-top bag and a piping bag for a simpler approach)
- Sausage casings (natural hog casings recommended, but collagen casings work too)
- Large pot
- Thermometer
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Sausage Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground pork and ground beef. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage tough.
Step 2: Adding the Spices
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and sage to the meat mixture. Gently mix until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Step 3: Incorporating Moisture
Slowly add the ice water, mixing gently until just combined. The ice water helps to keep the sausage moist and prevents it from becoming dry during cooking.
Step 4: Stuffing the Casings
If using a sausage stuffer, follow the manufacturer's instructions to fill the casings with the meat mixture. If you don't have a stuffer, you can carefully spoon the mixture into a large zip-top bag, snip off a corner, and pipe the mixture into the casings. This method might require a little more patience. Ensure that the casings are evenly filled but not overly tight.
Step 5: Twisting and Linking
Once the casings are filled, twist the sausage into links of your desired length. This is a fun and satisfying part of the process!
Step 6: Cooking the Sausage
Bring a large pot of water to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the sausage links to the simmering water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cook for approximately 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.
Step 7: Cooling and Enjoying
Remove the sausages from the water and allow them to cool completely before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a firmer texture.
Tips for the Best Garlic Summer Sausage:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat can lead to tough sausages. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures that the sausage is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it cool completely: Allowing the sausage to cool fully will result in a better texture and flavor.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. You can add other herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of nutmeg.
Variations:
- Spicy Summer Sausage: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Herb Summer Sausage: Add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- Cheese Summer Sausage: Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese into the meat mixture for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will vary based on link size. This is an estimate for a 4-ounce serving.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g
This recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes, healthy meals, and delicious dishes. It's perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels, offering a simple yet rewarding culinary experience. Enjoy!