Jalapeño and Cranberry Summer Sausage

Introduction

Creating unique and flavorful dishes at home can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you bring together unexpected ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Jalapeño and Cranberry Summer Sausage is a prime example of this culinary magic. This sausage combines the heat of jalapeños with the sweet tartness of dried cranberries, balanced with savory spices and a hint of brown sugar. The result is a deliciously complex sausage that’s perfect for charcuterie boards, sandwiches, or simply as a standalone snack. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and will impress anyone who tries it.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground pork
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp curing salt
  • 1/4 cup ice water
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Mixture

Begin by preparing the sausage mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, finely chopped dried cranberries, and chopped jalapeño. The cranberries provide a sweet contrast to the heat of the jalapeño, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s both intriguing and delicious.

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and curing salt to the meat mixture. These spices and seasonings will infuse the sausage with rich, savory flavors, while the curing salt helps preserve the sausage and enhances its texture. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring that the spices and other ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the pork.

Step 2: Incorporate the Ice Water

Next, add the ice water to the sausage mixture. The ice water helps to keep the fat in the sausage cold, which is crucial for maintaining the right texture. It also aids in binding the ingredients together. Continue to mix the sausage until the water is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in consistency. This step ensures that the sausage will hold its shape during cooking and have a juicy, tender texture when finished.

Step 3: Let the Flavors Meld

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the sausage mixture to rest for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive sausage. The time spent in the refrigerator also helps to firm up the sausage mixture, making it easier to shape and cook later on.

Step 4: Shape the Sausage

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Once the sausage mixture has rested, remove it from the refrigerator. Form the mixture into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter, and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Shaping the sausage into a log allows for even cooking and makes it easy to slice once it’s finished.

Step 5: Add the Brown Sugar

Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the sausage log. The brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness that complements the cranberries and contrasts with the spiciness of the jalapeño and cayenne pepper. As the sausage bakes, the sugar will caramelize slightly, adding depth and complexity to the flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Sausage

Place the baking sheet with the sausage log in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the sausage is cooked to the proper temperature. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to fully develop while keeping the sausage juicy and tender.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once the sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Cooling the sausage before slicing helps it to firm up, making it easier to slice without crumbling. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice the sausage into thin rounds. The slices should hold together well and reveal the specks of jalapeño and cranberry throughout the sausage.

Serving Suggestions

On Its Own

Jalapeño and Cranberry Summer Sausage is delicious on its own as a snack. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors makes each bite satisfying and flavorful. Slice the sausage into rounds and serve it on a platter for easy snacking.

With Cheese and Crackers

This sausage pairs wonderfully with a variety of cheeses and crackers, making it an excellent addition to a charcuterie board. The heat from the jalapeño is tempered by creamy cheeses, while the cranberries add a sweet contrast that complements the savory notes of the sausage.

In Sandwiches

Use slices of Jalapeño and Cranberry Summer Sausage in sandwiches for a flavorful twist. Pair it with sharp cheddar or creamy brie, add some crisp lettuce and a slice of tomato, and you’ve got a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor.

In Salads

Add slices of this summer sausage to salads for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs particularly well with salads that include fruits like apples or pears, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Conservation and Storage

Storing the Sausage

To store the Jalapeño and Cranberry Summer Sausage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store the sausage in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you’ve made a larger batch, you can also freeze the sausage for longer storage. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. The sausage will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the sausage in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

If you prefer to serve the sausage warm, you can gently reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sausage to dry out. A brief warm-up will enhance the flavors and make the sausage even more delicious when served.

Conclusion

Jalapeño and Cranberry Summer Sausage is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the heat of jalapeños with the sweetness of dried cranberries, all wrapped up in a savory, perfectly seasoned sausage. Whether served on its own, with cheese and crackers, or in sandwiches, this sausage is sure to be a hit. With its straightforward preparation and versatile uses, it’s a great addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this delicious sausage as a snack, an appetizer, or part of a meal, and savor the delightful combination of flavors.

Leave a Comment