Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to start your day? Tired of the same old breakfast routine? Then look no further! This venison breakfast sausage recipe, infused with the warm sweetness of maple syrup, is the perfect solution for a hearty and satisfying morning meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for homemade cooking, and a fantastic way to use venison beyond the usual stews and roasts. This recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic, providing a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional pork sausage. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's anything but ordinary!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground venison (about 80% lean)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground venison, maple syrup, egg, bread crumbs, sage, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cloves, and onion (if using). Avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage tough.
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Mix Gently: Use your hands to lightly mix all ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat.
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Shape the Sausage: Form the mixture into small patties, about 1-inch thick, or into sausage links. If making links, you can use sausage casings (natural or collagen), but it's perfectly fine to cook them as patties.
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Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Cook the sausage patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and browned. If making links, cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sausage from the skillet and serve immediately. These delicious breakfast sausages are fantastic on their own, with eggs, pancakes, or as part of a hearty breakfast burrito.
Cooking Tips for the Best Venison Sausage:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meat can result in tough sausage. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the venison is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Storage: Leftover sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Apple Cinnamon Sausage: Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped apples and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, autumnal flavor.
- Cranberry Sausage: Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries for a sweet and tart twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy venison breakfast sausage recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious, flavorful, and relatively healthy alternative to traditional breakfast sausage, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying and energizing start to your day. Enjoy!