Summer is grilling season, and what better way to elevate your BBQ than with homemade jalapeno summer sausage? This recipe delivers a delightful kick, perfect for snacking, adding to charcuterie boards, or slicing onto your favorite sandwiches. Forget the store-bought stuff – making your own is surprisingly easy and lets you control the spice level perfectly! This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. Get ready for a burst of flavor!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground pork (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 cup finely chopped jalapenos (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground pork and ground beef. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough sausage.
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Add the Flavor: Add the chopped jalapenos, onion, garlic, paprika, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, cloves, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. Using your hands, thoroughly but gently combine all ingredients until evenly distributed.
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Stuff the Sausage: If using natural casings, prepare them according to the package instructions. Alternatively, you can use sausage casings or even bake the mixture in a loaf pan.
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Cook the Sausage: For natural casings, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking or smoking. For a simpler approach without casings, shape the mixture into a loaf in a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
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Cool and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the sausage from the oven (or smoker) and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sausage to firm up.
Tips for Success:
- Spice it Up (or Down): Adjust the amount of jalapenos and cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder sausage, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before chopping. For an extra fiery kick, add more cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meat can result in a tough sausage. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures your sausage is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Proper Cooling: Allowing the sausage to cool completely is crucial for optimal flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Cheddar Jalapeno: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for a delicious twist.
- Smoked Sausage: For a smoky flavor, smoke the sausage according to your smoker's instructions.
- Mild Version: Omit the cayenne pepper and reduce the amount of jalapenos for a milder sausage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size. For a precise nutritional analysis, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities. However, expect this recipe to be relatively high in protein and fat, typical for a sausage.
This homemade jalapeno summer sausage is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a simple yet satisfying meal, this recipe provides a healthy and delicious option, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!