Introduction
Are you ready to elevate your snack game? Look no further than this Pickled Sausage Recipe. Pickled sausages are a delightful blend of tangy and savory flavors, making them a popular choice for appetizers and snacks. Making pickled sausage at home is not only easy but also allows for endless versatility. Whether you prefer it spicy, mild, or somewhere in between, this recipe can be tailored to your taste. With just a few simple steps and common kitchen ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
What You’ll Need
Detailed measurements list in the section below :
Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential equipment to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Equipment:
- Sterilized jars and lids: Proper sterilization is crucial to prevent any bacterial growth and ensure your pickled sausage is safe to eat.
- Large pot: You’ll need this to prepare the brine and process the jars.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a successful pickling process.
Optional Tools:
- Jar lifter: This makes it easier to handle hot jars during the sterilization and processing stages.
- Funnel: Helps pour the brine into the jars without spilling.
Sterilization is vital for food safety. Boil the jars and lids for 10 minutes to eliminate any harmful bacteria. This step ensures your pickled sausage remains fresh and delicious.
Ingredients
To make the best Pickled Sausage Recipe, you need high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound sausage links: Opt for fully cooked and smoked sausages like kielbasa, andouille, or hot links. These varieties add an extra depth of flavor. Look for brands like Hillshire Farm, Johnsonville, or local artisanal options.
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 bay leaf
These ingredients combine to create a brine that perfectly complements the sausage, resulting in a flavorful pickled treat.
Instructions
Sterilize the Jars and Lids
Start by sterilizing your jars and lids. Boil them in water for 10 minutes to ensure they are clean and safe for pickling.
Prepare the Sausage
Choose high-quality, fully cooked sausages like kielbasa, andouille, or hot links. Cut the sausage links into 1-inch pieces.
Prepare the Brine
In a large pot, combine 2 cups white vinegar, 1 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon salt, 2 cloves garlic (smashed), 1 tablespoon mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using), and 1 bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
Pack the Jars
Pack the sausage pieces into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
Add the Brine
Pour the hot brine over the packed sausage pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
Seal the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars clean and place the lids on. Screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight.
Process the Jars
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, ensuring they are fully submerged. Maintain a gentle boil throughout the process.
Cool and Store
Carefully remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Check that the lids have sealed properly. Store the jars in a cool, dark place.
Allow Flavors to Develop
Allow the pickled sausage to sit for at least a week before consuming to let the flavors meld.
Nutrition Score
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving: Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per serving, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 10g, Protein: 7g, Sodium: 600mg
Serving & Storage
Pickled sausages are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a snack, an appetizer, or part of a charcuterie board. For storage, keep your pickled sausage in the refrigerator. They can last several months if stored properly. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Variations
This recipe is highly customizable. Try using different types of sausages like chorizo or bratwurst. Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with additional spices or herbs to create unique flavor profiles.
FAQs
How long does pickled sausage last?
Pickled sausage can last several months when stored in the refrigerator. Always ensure the jars are sealed properly and check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I use different types of sausages for pickling?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with various sausage types such as kielbasa, andouille, chorizo, or bratwurst.
What are the best storage methods for pickled sausage?
Store your pickled sausage in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jars in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and safety.
How can I adjust the spiciness of pickled sausage?
To adjust the spiciness, simply increase or decrease the amount of red pepper flakes in the brine. You can also add other spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Conclusion
Making pickled sausage at home is a fun and rewarding process. Not only is it easy, but it also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. We encourage you to try this Pickled Sausage Recipe and share your experiences. Feel free to explore different variations and make this recipe your own. Enjoy your homemade pickled sausages!