Easy Homemade Sausage Recipe
Creating a delightful homemade sausage can be a rewarding culinary endeavor that brings rich, savory flavors to your table. This easy-to-follow recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also gives you the satisfaction of crafting something special in your own kitchen. Get ready to enjoy a flavorful journey with this easy homemade sausage recipe.
Growing up, my family gathered every spring for a sausage-making day. The kitchen burs ted with laughter and the rich aroma of spices and meats mingling under the watchful eye of my grandmother. She taught us to appreciate the finer details of seasoning and the pleasure of handcrafting food. This tradition used to bring us closer, and now, whenever I make this sausage, those cherished memories come alive.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade sausage recipe stands out due to its simplicity and hearty flavor. You’ll love that it only requires a few easy-to-find ingredients and can be customized to your liking. Unlike store-bought sausages, this recipe lets you control the seasoning and sourcing of your ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal without preservatives. The result? A mouthwatering sausage with a perfect balance of spice and juiciness, ready to enjoy any time of the year.
Ingredients Notes
The core components include ground pork, garlic, fennel seeds, and paprika. A trip to your local butcher can yield high-quality ground pork, guaranteeing a fresher and more flavorful output. If fennel is not your thing, a dash of cumin can be a good substitute. Meanwhile, smoked paprika gives the sausage a deeper, smokier edge—both regular and smoked varieties work wonderfully.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by preparing your spices. Toast the fennel seeds lightly in a pan to enhance their flavor, then crush them gently using a mortar and pestle.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, minced garlic, crushed fennel seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well integrated.
Step 3
Take a small amount of the mixture and form a patty. Cook in a pan to test for seasoning. Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
Step 4
Once satisfied with the flavor, form links or patties with the remaining mixture. If you’re adventurous, you can also stuff them into casings.
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Step 5
Cook the sausages over medium heat until they are thoroughly cooked, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. Serve hot.
Storage Options
Store leftover sausages in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the sausages on a baking sheet before transferring them into freezer bags. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat in a pan until hot and juicy.
Variations & Substitutions
For a leaner sausage, substitute the ground pork with ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarians can swap the meat for a plant-based alternative, incorporating extra spices like sage and thyme to enhance the flavor. Spice lovers should try adding chili flakes for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This sausage makes a cozy breakfast paired with scrambled eggs and toast. Alternatively, serve it for dinner alongside sautéed vegetables and mashed potatoes. It’s also perfect for BBQs and picnics, bringing a homemade touch to the outdoor table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the sausage in advance? Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Form into sausages just before cooking to ensure freshness.
What if I don’t have fennel seeds? No worries. Feel free to leave them out or try substituting with cumin seeds or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a different but delicious flavor.
How can I tell when the sausage is done? Cook the sausage until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. The outer surface should be nicely browned, and the juices should run clear when cut.
Enjoy crafting your own sausage and reliving cherished moments as I have, surrounded by the people you love and the food that brings happiness to your home.
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Easy Homemade Sausage Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb pork shoulder cut into small pieces
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tsp paprika smoked
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp fennel seeds crushed
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cider vinegar
- 1 cup cold water
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine pork, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, fennel seeds, and sugar.
- Mix in cider vinegar and cold water to blend the spices well with the meat.
- Using a meat grinder, coarsely grind the mixture.
- Form the mixture into patties or stuff into casings if desired.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
