Homemade Summer Sausage

Looking to elevate your backyard BBQ game this summer? Look no further! This Homemade Summer Sausage recipe is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavor and hearty texture. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or simply craving a savory snack, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering treat step by step.

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

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground hamburger, liquid smoke, Morton Salt Tender Quick, coarse ground pepper, minced garlic, and mustard seeds. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly, similar to how you would mix meatloaf.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. After 24 hours, take the mixture out of the refrigerator and knead it once more to ensure even distribution of flavors. Then, shape the mixture into four logs, each approximately 14×2 inches in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the sausage logs on a baking sheet with sides about 1-2 inches high to catch any drippings.
5. Bake the sausage logs in the preheated oven for 3 hours, or until they are cooked through and have developed a rich, golden-brown color.
6. Once cooked, remove the sausage logs from the oven and carefully wrap each one in wax paper, followed by aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and flavor while the sausages cool.
7. Refrigerate the wrapped sausage logs until they are well chilled, preferably overnight.
8. When ready to serve, slice the chilled sausage into rounds of your desired thickness. Enjoy the homemade summer sausage on its own, or pair it with crackers and cheese for a delightful appetizer.

Notes:

• When shaping the sausage logs, be sure to knead the mixture well and form tight logs to prevent cracks from forming during baking.
• If using venison, which is leaner than ground hamburger, consider using a mixture of 3 lbs of venison and 2 lbs of hamburger for optimal flavor and texture.

Conclusion:
With its smoky aroma and savory flavor profile, this Homemade Summer Sausage recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, picnic, or simply indulging in a tasty snack at home, these delicious sausage logs are sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try and elevate your summer gatherings with a homemade touch that everyone will love!

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Serving Suggestions: Serve your homemade summer sausage slices on a platter as an appetizer at your next gathering. Pair them with an assortment of crackers, cheese cubes, and sliced fruits for a delicious charcuterie board that will impress your guests. You can also incorporate the sausage slices into sandwiches or wraps for a hearty and flavorful lunch option.
2. Chilling for Optimal Flavor: For the best taste and texture, refrigerate the wrapped sausage logs for at least several hours or preferably overnight before slicing and serving. Chilling allows the flavors to fully develop and enhances the overall taste experience.
3. Slice Just Before Serving: To maintain freshness and prevent the sausage slices from drying out, it’s best to slice them just before serving. This ensures that each slice retains its juiciness and flavor.
4. Storage Guidelines: Store any leftover sausage slices in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. Properly stored, homemade summer sausage can last for up to 1-2 weeks in the fridge. If you don’t plan to consume the sausage within this timeframe, you can also freeze it for longer storage.
5. Freezing Instructions: To freeze the sausage slices, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen summer sausage can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
6. Reheating Tips: If you prefer your summer sausage slices warm, you can gently heat them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them for a few seconds until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the sausage slices.
7. Enjoy Responsibly: Remember to enjoy your homemade summer sausage responsibly and in moderation. While it’s tempting to indulge in this delicious treat, be mindful of portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your homemade summer sausage stays fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a tasty snack, this homemade delight is sure to delight your taste buds!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I substitute the ground hamburger with another type of meat?
   Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of meat for this recipe. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, if you’re a fan of game meats, such as venison or elk, feel free to substitute part or all of the ground hamburger with these alternatives. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may result in a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
2. Is there a substitute for Morton Salt Tender Quick if I can’t find it at my local store?
   If you’re unable to find Morton Salt Tender Quick at your local grocery store, you can try using a homemade curing mixture as an alternative. A simple mixture of kosher salt and pink curing salt (also known as Prague Powder #1) can work well. The ratio typically used is 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to 1 teaspoon of pink curing salt per 5 pounds of meat. However, be sure to thoroughly mix the ingredients to ensure proper curing.
3. Can I adjust the seasonings in the recipe to suit my taste preferences?
   Absolutely! One of the great things about homemade sausage is the ability to customize the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a spicier sausage, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture. Alternatively, if you enjoy a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of pepper and garlic used. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a sausage that perfectly suits your taste buds.
4. How long does the homemade summer sausage last once it’s been cooked?
   When properly stored in the refrigerator, cooked homemade summer sausage can last for up to 1-2 weeks. To maintain freshness, be sure to wrap the sausage logs tightly in wax paper and aluminum foil before refrigerating. If you have leftover sausage slices, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the fridge. Alternatively, you can freeze the sausage slices for longer storage, extending their shelf life to 2-3 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving.