Homemade Summer Sausage

Summer sausage, with its savory flavors and delightful textures, is a versatile delicacy enjoyed by many across the globe. Not confined to just the warmer months, this dish finds its way into holiday feasts, picnic baskets, and everyday snacks. Today, I’m excited to share a simple yet exquisite homemade summer sausage recipe that promises to bring a piece of culinary joy to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cooking enthusiast, this recipe is designed to impress with its straightforward approach and delectable results.

Why This Recipe Works

Crafted for those who appreciate the finer aspects of home cooking, this homemade summer sausage recipe stands out for its simplicity and the robust flavors it delivers. Utilizing basic ingredients and requiring minimal kitchen equipment, it’s a testament to the beauty of homemade charcuterie. Perfect for anyone looking to dive into the world of sausage making without the need for specialized equipment, this recipe guarantees a delicious outcome that’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat.

Who Is This Recipe For?

• Cooking Enthusiasts: If you love experimenting in the kitchen and trying out new recipes, this summer sausage is a fantastic project that yields great rewards.
• Party Planners: Offering a homemade touch to your party platters, this sausage pairs wonderfully with cheeses and crackers, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Gift Givers: Homemade summer sausage makes for a thoughtful and unique gift, especially during the holiday season.
• Health-Conscious Cooks: By making your sausage at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier option than store-bought varieties.

Ingredients

• 5 lb ground hamburger (no lean burger)
• 5 Tbsp liquid smoke (found near barbecue sauce)
• 5 Tbsp Morton Salt Tender Quick (found in the spice aisle)
• 2 Tbsp coarse ground pepper
• 2 Tbsp minced garlic
• 2 Tbsp mustard seeds

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Cookie sheet with 1-2 inch sides
• Wax paper
• Aluminum foil
• Refrigerator

Preparation

1. Mixing Ingredients: Begin by combining all the ingredients in a large bowl. Using your hands, mix everything thoroughly, just as you would when preparing meatloaf. This ensures that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat.
2. Refrigeration: Once mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to absorb the seasonings fully.
3. Shaping: After the refrigeration period, knead the meat mixture one more time. Then, divide it into four equal parts, rolling each into a log approximately 14 inches in length and 2 inches in diameter. It’s important to knead and shape the logs tightly to prevent any cracks from forming during the baking process.
4. Baking: Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the meat logs on a cookie sheet and bake for 3 hours. This low and slow cooking method ensures that the sausage cooks evenly while retaining its moisture.
5. Cooling and Wrapping: Once baked, remove the sausages from the oven and let them cool slightly. Wrap each sausage first in wax paper and then in aluminum foil. This helps to preserve the sausage’s flavors and textures.
6. Final Refrigeration: Refrigerate the wrapped sausages until well chilled. This not only helps in setting the sausage’s shape but also enhances its flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade summer sausage can be enjoyed in various ways. Slice it thinly and serve with crackers and cheese for a classic appetizer. It can also be diced and added to salads, soups, or pasta dishes for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage Tips

Store your homemade summer sausage in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the sausage for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Variations and Swaps

• Meat Variations: For a leaner option, consider using a mix of venison and hamburger. Ensure that the total fat content remains sufficient to keep the sausage moist and flavorful.
• Seasoning Swaps: Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as paprika, red pepper flakes, or fennel seeds to tailor the flavor to your liking.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other types of meat? A: Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground hamburger, feel free to experiment with pork, turkey, or a mix of meats. Just remember to adjust the fat content accordingly.

Q: Is liquid smoke necessary? A: Liquid smoke adds a distinctive smoky flavor that’s characteristic of summer sausage. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

Q: Can this sausage be made without a cookie sheet? A: Yes, if you don’t have a cookie sheet with sides, you can use any baking tray. Just ensure there’s enough space for air to circulate around the sausages.

Preparation Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Serves, and Nutrition Values

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes + chilling time
• Serves: 10-12

Valeurs Nutritionnelles: Calories: 420 | Total Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 186mg | Sodium: 1513mg | Total Carbohydrates: 49g | Dietary Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Protein: 24g

Conclusion

Creating your homemade summer sausage is a rewarding experience that not only enhances your cooking skills but also offers a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, make a unique gift, or simply indulge in a savory snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

If you’ve enjoyed this journey into homemade charcuterie, I encourage you to share this recipe with friends and family. Subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes, tips, and culinary inspirations. Your support means the world to us!

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