Introduction
If you’re a fan of bold, tangy flavors and love a good sausage, this Pickled Sausage Recipe is the perfect combination for you. Pickled sausage is a classic snack that’s easy to make at home and packs a punch of flavor. Whether you enjoy it on its own, sliced up on a charcuterie board, or added to sandwiches, this pickled sausage offers a savory, tangy bite with a hint of spice. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a delicious homemade treat that’s sure to impress.
What You’ll Need
Essential Equipment
To make this pickled sausage, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Medium saucepan: For preparing the pickling brine.
- Fork: For pricking the sausages to help them absorb the brine.
- Heatproof jar or container: To store the sausage in the pickling liquid. Make sure it has a tight-fitting lid to seal in the flavors.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Key Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound sausage links: Choose a high-quality sausage such as kielbasa, andouille, or hot links. The sausages should be flavorful but not too greasy.
- 1 cup white vinegar: The primary pickling agent, adding a tangy flavor to the sausage.
- 1 cup water: Dilutes the vinegar slightly to balance the acidity.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the vinegar’s sharpness.
- 1 tablespoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and helps with preservation.
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns: Adds a subtle peppery heat.
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds: Adds a slight tang and crunch to the pickling liquid.
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds: Provides a citrusy, slightly spicy note to the brine.
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed: Infuses the brine with a rich, savory taste.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle herbal flavor to the brine.
- Optional: red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat, red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.
Ingredient Preparation
Proper preparation of the ingredients is essential to ensure the sausages absorb the pickling flavors well.
Preparing the Brine
- Combine Brine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, garlic, and bay leaf. If you like your pickled sausage to have some heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the mixture as well.
- Simmer the Brine: Bring the vinegar mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a well-balanced brine that will penetrate the sausages.
Preparing the Sausages
- Prick the Sausages: While the vinegar mixture is simmering, prepare the sausage links by pricking them all over with a fork. This step is crucial as it allows the pickling liquid to penetrate the sausages more effectively, ensuring they are infused with flavor throughout.
Instructions
Packing and Pickling
- Pack the Sausages: Place the pricked sausage links into a clean, heatproof jar or container. Make sure the container you use has a tight-fitting lid to keep the sausages submerged in the pickling liquid.
- Add the Brine: Once the vinegar mixture has finished simmering, carefully pour it over the sausage links in the jar. Ensure the sausages are completely submerged in the liquid. If needed, press the sausages down slightly to cover them fully.
Cooling and Storing
- Cool the Sausages: Let the pickled sausage cool to room temperature. This allows the sausages to start absorbing the brine as it cools.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Once cooled, cover the jar with a lid and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours. This resting period is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and the sausages to fully absorb the pickling brine.
Serving Suggestions
Serving
Pickled Sausage is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas:
- As a Snack: Slice the pickled sausage and enjoy it on its own for a tangy, flavorful snack.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Add sliced pickled sausage to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, crackers, and other cured meats.
- In Sandwiches: Use pickled sausage as a tangy addition to sandwiches or wraps.
- In Salads: Add sliced pickled sausage to salads for a burst of flavor.
Storage
The pickled sausage will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Ensure the sausages remain submerged in the brine to maintain their flavor and texture. If you find that the sausages have absorbed a lot of the brine, you can add a little more vinegar and water to top off the jar.
Variations
Customizing Your Pickled Sausage
This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit different tastes:
- Spicier Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili peppers to the brine for more heat.
- Different Spices: Experiment with different spices like fennel seeds, cloves, or allspice to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: You can add sliced onions, carrots, or bell peppers to the jar for a pickled medley.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausages?
Yes, you can use any type of fully cooked sausage that you like. Just be sure to choose sausages that are flavorful and not too greasy for the best results.
How long do I need to wait before eating the pickled sausage?
For the best flavor, let the sausages pickle for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator before eating. The longer they sit, the more intense the flavor will become.
Can I reuse the pickling brine?
It’s not recommended to reuse the pickling brine for another batch of sausages due to potential bacteria growth. However, you can use the brine as a marinade for meats or add it to salad dressings for a tangy flavor.
Can I freeze pickled sausage?
Freezing is not recommended for pickled sausage as it can affect the texture and flavor. It’s best to enjoy them fresh from the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Pickled Sausage Recipe is a delicious and easy way to add a tangy, flavorful twist to your favorite sausages. Perfect for snacking, adding to charcuterie boards, or enhancing sandwiches, these pickled sausages are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With a few simple steps and some patience, you can enjoy this savory treat that’s bursting with flavor. Try this recipe and savor the unique, zesty taste of homemade pickled sausage!