Homemade Pork Sausage Recipe You'll Crave

Creating your own homemade pork sausage is not just a culinary adventure, but also an opportunity to customize flavors to your heart's content. Here's a straightforward recipe for delicious pork sausages that you'll absolutely crave.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of pork shoulder, with a good balance of fat to lean
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon of fennel seed
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried sage
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• A pinch of nutmeg
• ¹⁄₄ cup of cold water or ice
• Sausage casings (natural or collagen, if desired)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat: Start by cutting the pork shoulder into small chunks. This makes it easier for the grinder or food processor to work efficiently.
2. Grind the Meat: Using a meat grinder or food processor, grind the pork until it achieves a coarse but even texture. If using a food processor, be careful not to over-process; you don’t want to end up with pate.
3. Season: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork with all the seasonings. Mix thoroughly by hand to ensure even distribution of flavors.
4. Chill: Add the cold water or ice to the mixture to keep everything cold. This helps in maintaining the fat structure when cooking. Mix gently but thoroughly, then let the meat rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to meld the flavors.
5. Stuff the Casings: If you’re making link sausages, soak the casings according to the package instructions. Attach the sausage stuffing attachment to your meat grinder or use a dedicated sausage stuffer. Fill the casings with the pork mixture, ensuring not to overstuff to avoid breakage.
6. Form Patties: Alternatively, form the sausage mixture into patties for a quicker and easier option. Simply shape the meat into round patties about ¹⁄₂ inch thick.
7. Cook:
   • Sausages: Cook on medium heat in a skillet or on a grill, turning frequently until browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
   • Patties: Cook over medium heat, turning once, until fully cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your homemade sausage hot with your favorite sides, or cool and store for later use.

Tips for Perfect Sausages

• Cold Ingredients: Keeping everything cold (meat, equipment, seasonings) is crucial for texture and fat distribution.
• Grind Size: A coarser grind will give you a more traditional sausage texture, whereas a finer grind might be more appropriate for patties or breakfast sausage.
• Taste Testing: Fry a small patty to test the seasoning before stuffing the casings.

🍽️ Note: If you choose to use casings, ensure they are properly soaked to prevent them from splitting during stuffing. Over-stuffing can lead to breakages, so maintain a gentle touch.

Homemade pork sausage opens up a world of flavor customization. Whether you prefer your sausage mild, spicy, or with a unique blend of herbs, this recipe provides a solid foundation. It's not just about replicating what you can buy at the store; it's about crafting something personal and delectable.

Experimenting with different spices, adding apples, or mixing meats can lead to new, exciting flavors. Each batch you make can reflect your current culinary mood or complement a specific dish you're planning. Moreover, controlling the quality of the meat and the ingredients ensures a healthier and potentially tastier sausage.

After cooking, these sausages can be enjoyed in various ways: grilled, pan-fried, baked, or even added to dishes like casseroles or pasta. They are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making them versatile for any meal of the day.

In summary, making homemade pork sausages allows you to enjoy sausage as you've never tasted before. With the ability to adjust the seasoning to your liking, the control over ingredients, and the satisfaction of creating something from scratch, you'll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

How long can I store homemade sausages in the fridge?

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Raw homemade sausages can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cooked sausages will last for about a week if refrigerated promptly after cooking.

Can I freeze homemade sausages?

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Yes, you can freeze both raw and cooked sausages. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remember to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What other meats can I mix with pork for sausages?

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You can mix pork with beef, veal, lamb, or even chicken for different flavors and textures. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to unique and delicious results.