Smoked sausage is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed in various dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, and even served on a bun with mustard and sauerkraut. But cooking smoked sausage properly can be daunting for some home cooks. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook smoked sausage and also provide you with some handy tips and tricks.
Preparing Smoked Sausage
Before cooking your smoked sausage, make sure to inspect it carefully. Check the package to ensure it has not reached its expiration date, and make sure there are no tears or cuts in the casing. If the casing has been ruptured, the sausage may not be safe to eat.
Once you have verified that the sausage is okay to use, you can begin by preparing it. To do this, you should first remove the casing. Cut the sausage into pieces of equal size. You can slice it diagonally, which works particularly well if you plan to serve it atop a salad, or you can cut it into bite-sized pieces for use in other dishes.
How to Cook Smoked Sausage
There are several ways to cook smoked sausage, including grilling, boiling, baking, and pan-frying. Below are some popular methods of cooking smoked sausage.
Grilling Smoked Sausage
Grilling is a popular method for cooking smoked sausage. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with oil. This prevents the sausages from sticking. Heat the sausages over direct heat for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them occasionally. Make sure to cook the sausages until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Boiling Smoked Sausage
Boiling is another popular method for cooking smoked sausage. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the sausage links to the pot, and let them boil for about 10-12 minutes. This is an excellent method for cooking sausage when you need it for a dish such as gumbo or jambalaya.
Baking Smoked Sausage
Baking is a great method for cooking smoked sausage when you have a large quantity to cook. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the sausage pieces on a baking sheet, and bake the sausages in the oven for 25-30 minutes.
Pan-Frying Smoked Sausage
Frying smoked sausage in a pan is another popular method of cooking it. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sausage pieces to the pan, and cook them for approximately 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Ensure that you flip them occasionally.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some quick tips that will help you cook the perfect smoked sausage every time.
- For added flavor, consider marinating your smoked sausage before cooking it for a few hours.
- Avoid overcooking the sausage, as this can dry it out and make it tough.
- Slicing the sausage diagonally will promote more even cooking than cutting it into rounds.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the sausage reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
FAQ
Can you cook smoked sausage in the microwave?
While it is possible to cook smoked sausage in the microwave, it is not recommended as it can cause the casing to become tough and chewy.
How do I know if smoked sausage has gone bad?
If the sausage is spoiled, it will have a sour smell, discoloration, and a slimy texture.
What is the best way to store smoked sausage?
Store smoked sausage in a sealed container in the fridge to keep it fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to six months.
In conclusion, cooking smoked sausage is easy when you follow the right steps and use the best cooking method that works for you. By following these tips and tricks, you can cook the perfect smoked sausage every time.