VENISON JALAPEÑO CHEDDAR SUMMER SAUSAGE

Introduction

For those who appreciate the deep, rich flavors of venison and the zesty kick of jalapeños, this Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage recipe is a must-try. The combination of lean venison, succulent pork, sharp cheddar cheese, and spicy jalapeños creates a mouthwatering sausage that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced hunter looking to put your venison to good use or just a fan of bold, flavorful sausages, this recipe will deliver a satisfying result that can be enjoyed by all.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground venison
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 2 tablespoons curing salt
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3-4 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
  • 1 package of collagen sausage casings

Instructions

Preparing the Sausage Mixture

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground venison, ground pork, cold water, curing salt, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
  2. Add Cheese and Jalapeños: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, and liquid smoke. Be sure to mix well so that the cheese and jalapeños are evenly incorporated into the sausage mixture.

Marinating the Mixture

  1. Marinate for Flavor: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the sausage mixture for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This marinating process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more robust and flavorful sausage.

Preparing and Stuffing the Sausages

Preparing the Casings

  1. Soak the Casings: Soak the collagen sausage casings in warm water according to the package instructions. This step is essential to make the casings pliable and ready for stuffing.

Stuffing the Sausages

  1. Stuff the Casings: Using a sausage stuffer, carefully fill the soaked casings with the sausage mixture. Make sure to leave enough space to twist the sausages into individual links. Be gentle during this process to avoid creating air pockets.
  2. Prick the Sausages: Prick any air bubbles in the sausages with a sterilized needle or pin to prevent them from bursting during the cooking process.

Cooking the Sausages

Smoking or Baking

  1. Preheat Smoker or Oven: Preheat your smoker or oven to 180°F (82°C). If using a smoker, add hickory or applewood chips for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
  2. Cook the Sausages: Place the sausages in the smoker or oven and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This process typically takes about 4-6 hours, depending on the thickness of the sausages and the consistency of your heat source.

Cooling and Storing

  1. Cool the Sausages: Once cooked, remove the sausages from the smoker or oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. This cooling process helps to firm up the sausages and makes them easier to slice.
  2. Refrigerate or Serve: After cooling, refrigerate the sausages if you’re not serving them immediately. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

Conservation and Storage Tips

Proper Storage

  1. Refrigeration: Store the cooked sausages in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This helps to maintain their freshness and flavor.
  2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sausages by wrapping them in aluminum foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, the sausages can last up to six months in the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Slicing: Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage is best served cold or at room temperature. Slice it into thin rounds and serve it on a charcuterie board with cheeses, crackers, and pickles for a delicious appetizer.
  2. Sandwiches: You can also use this summer sausage as a hearty filling for sandwiches. Pair it with your favorite bread, some spicy mustard, and a slice of Swiss or cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage is more than just a sausage; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and traditional techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just someone who enjoys a good, hearty sausage, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of venison, pork, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños creates a symphony of flavors that are smoky, spicy, and savory all at once. Plus, the curing and smoking process ensures that this sausage has a depth of flavor that is truly unparalleled.

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