Summer sausage is a beloved cured meat that’s perfect for snacking, picnics, or adding a savory touch to your meals. Whether you’re a seasoned charcuterie fan or a curious home cook, learning how to cook summer sausage can open up a world of delicious possibilities. This article will walk you through the basics of cooking summer sausage, share some tips on homemade versions, and offer easy ways to enjoy it.
What Is Summer Sausage?
Summer sausage is a type of cured, smoked sausage that originated as a way to preserve meat for warm months before refrigeration was common. Unlike salami, summer sausage retains more moisture, giving it a smooth, tender texture. Traditionally, it’s made with beef, pork, or game meats and seasoned with spices like black pepper, garlic, mustard seeds, and coriander. It’s often smoked to develop its characteristic flavor and can be eaten cold or cooked.
How Do You Cook Summer Sausage?
Cooking Summer Sausage from Store-Bought Links
If you have pre-made summer sausage, cooking it is simple and quick. Here’s a straightforward method:
– Slice the sausage into thick rounds or chunks.
– Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil.
– Add sliced onions and peppers if you like, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until soft.
– Add the sliced summer sausage to the skillet and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
– Cook until the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F to ensure it’s heated through.
– Remove from heat and serve warm with your favorite sides or on sandwiches.
This method enhances the smoky, savory flavors of the sausage and pairs wonderfully with caramelized onions and peppers.
How to Make and Cook Homemade Summer Sausage
If you want to try making summer sausage from scratch, here’s a simplified overview of the process:
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Ground beef, pork, or venison (or a combination)
– Salt and curing salt (like Cure #1 or Morton Tenderquick)
– Spices: black pepper, garlic powder, mustard seeds, coriander, paprika, and others to taste
– Optional: sugar or dextrose, liquid smoke, cheese, jalapeños for flavor variations
– Casings (natural pork or beef casings) or you can form logs without casings and wrap in foil
Basic Steps
- Prepare the Meat: Chill your meat and grinder to keep fat from smearing. Grind the meat twice for a fine texture.
- Mix Seasonings: Combine the ground meat with salt, curing salt, spices, and any additional flavorings. Mix thoroughly until it forms a sticky paste.
- Stuff or Shape: Stuff the mixture into casings or form into logs wrapped tightly in foil or parchment paper.
- Curing and Drying: Let the sausage cure in the refrigerator overnight or for 24-48 hours to develop flavor.
- Cook the Sausage:
– If using a smoker, smoke at about 165°F with heavy smoke for 2 hours, then cook until internal temperature reaches 150-155°F.
– If using an oven, preheat to 185-200°F and bake until the internal temperature hits 165-170°F.
- Cool and Store: Let the sausage cool completely before slicing. It can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or warmed up.
Tips for Perfect Summer Sausage
– Keep everything cold during preparation to maintain texture and prevent fat from melting.
– Use curing salts to ensure safety and proper preservation.
– Monitor internal temperature closely with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
– Experiment with spices to find your favorite flavor profile-some like it garlicky, others prefer a hint of sweetness or heat.
– Allow the sausage to rest after cooking for better flavor and texture.
Serving Ideas for Summer Sausage
– Charcuterie boards: Pair with cheeses, crackers, nuts, and fruits.
– Sandwiches: Slice thin and add to sandwiches with mustard and pickles.
– Breakfast: Dice and add to scrambled eggs or omelets.
– Snacks: Serve sliced with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.
– Cooked dishes: Sauté with peppers and onions for a quick meal or add to pasta and salads.
Summer sausage is versatile, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to cook or make at home. Whether you buy it ready-made or try your hand at crafting your own, cooking summer sausage can be a rewarding experience that brings a taste of tradition to your table.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious results!
Cooking summer sausage is simple: slice and heat it through in a skillet or bake it gently until it reaches the right temperature. Homemade versions require curing, seasoning, and slow cooking or smoking to develop their signature flavor and texture. Either way, summer sausage is a tasty treat worth savoring.