Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to preserve your venison harvest? Look no further! This venison summer sausage smoker recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering, homemade treat perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even adding to your favorite charcuterie board. This recipe is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks who want to explore the world of homemade cooking. It’s a fantastic example of healthy meals prepared with readily available ingredients. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly flavorful, delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs venison shoulder, ground (at least 80% lean)
- 1 lb pork shoulder, ground (helps bind and adds flavor)
- 1 cup ice water
- 1/4 cup Prague Powder #1 (curing salt, essential for safety)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Hog casings (approximately 2-2.5 feet, 32-38 mm diameter) – Available at most butcher shops.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground venison and pork. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage tough.
Step 2: Add the Curing Ingredients
Add the Prague Powder #1, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), sage, and thyme. Again, mix gently and thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices.
Step 3: Incorporate the Ice Water
Gradually add the ice water, mixing gently until the mixture is just combined. The ice water helps keep the sausage mixture cold, which is crucial for preventing bacterial growth. Do not overmix!
Step 4: Stuff the Casings
Carefully prepare your hog casings according to the package instructions. Use a sausage stuffer (manual or electric) to fill the casings with the meat mixture, leaving about 2 inches of space at the end of each casing. Tie off the ends securely.
Step 5: Prick the Casings
Using a needle or toothpick, prick small holes along the length of the casings. This prevents the casings from bursting during smoking.
Step 6: Cold Smoke the Sausage
Prepare your smoker for cold smoking at a temperature between 70-80°F (21-27°C). Use your preferred smoking wood (apple, hickory, or cherry are popular choices). Cold smoke the sausage for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (66°C).
Step 7: Hang to Dry
After cold smoking, allow the sausage to air dry in a cool, dry place (ideally with good air circulation) for 1-2 days. This further enhances the flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Meat Quality: Using high-quality, lean venison is essential for optimal flavor and texture.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining consistent temperature during smoking is vital. Use a reliable meat thermometer to monitor the temperature carefully.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can make the sausage tough. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Casings: Ensure your casings are properly prepared before stuffing.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or other spices to customize the heat level.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique blend.
- Cheese: Incorporate finely shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or others) into the mixture for an extra flavor dimension.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an approximation and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. It's best to consult a nutritional calculator for a precise analysis after inputting your exact recipe details.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
This venison summer sausage recipe provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a delicious, homemade treat. The process is relatively straightforward, making it a perfect project for anyone interested in food recipes and homemade cooking, seeking healthy meals, or simply looking for easy recipes to expand their culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!