Description
Discover the rich and savory flavors of Homemade Summer Sausage with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for snacking, this sausage is made with ground beef and a blend of spices, then baked to perfection. Enjoy it sliced on its own or paired with crackers and cheese for a delightful treat.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for meat lovers, home cooks, and anyone who enjoys making their own deli-style meats at home. It’s also ideal for hunters looking to make use of venison and anyone wanting to create a delicious homemade sausage with a robust flavor.
Why It’s Great
- Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, liquid smoke, and a blend of spices creates a deeply savory and flavorful sausage.
- Versatile: Enjoy this sausage on its own, with crackers and cheese, or as part of a charcuterie board.
- Homemade Goodness: Making sausage at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure a high-quality product.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Cookie sheet with sides
- Wax paper
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 5 lb ground hamburger (not lean)
- 5 Tbsp liquid smoke
- 5 Tbsp Morton salt tender quick
- 2 Tbsp coarse ground pepper
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp mustard seeds
Directions
1. Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground hamburger, liquid smoke, Morton salt tender quick, coarse ground pepper, minced garlic, and mustard seeds. Mix thoroughly with your hands, as if making meatloaf.
2. Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Shape Logs:
Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and knead it again. Shape the meat into four logs, each about 14 inches long and 2 inches in diameter. Ensure the logs are tightly packed to prevent cracks during baking.
4. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the logs on a cookie sheet with 1-2 inch sides. Bake for 3 hours.
5. Cool and Wrap:
Remove the logs from the oven and wrap them in wax paper, then in aluminum foil. Refrigerate until well chilled.
6. Serve:
Slice the sausage and serve it on its own or with crackers and cheese.
Storage
Store the homemade summer sausage wrapped in wax paper and aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the sausage for up to three months.
FAQ
Q: Can I use venison instead of ground beef? A: Yes, if using venison, mix 3 lbs of venison with 2 lbs of ground beef to ensure there is enough fat in the mixture, as venison is very lean.
Q: What is Morton salt tender quick? A: Morton salt tender quick is a curing salt that helps preserve the sausage and gives it a distinct flavor. It can usually be found in the spice aisle.
Q: Can I add other spices? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste by adding herbs or spices like paprika, onion powder, or chili flakes.
Conclusion
Homemade Summer Sausage is a delicious and satisfying project for any home cook. With its rich, smoky flavor and versatile uses, it’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding to your favorite dishes. Enjoy the pride and satisfaction of making your own sausage at home!