How to Cook Cumberland Sausage?
To cook Cumberland sausage, there are several methods you can choose from.
One option is to slow bake the sausage ring in a medium-hot oven at 200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas 4 for 15-20 minutes, making sure to turn it occasionally until it turns golden brown.
Alternatively, you can fry the sausage ring in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat with olive oil.
Turn it every 4 minutes for 15-20 minutes.
Finally, you can also cook the sausage on a barbecue.
Once cooked, you can enjoy Cumberland sausage with mash and onion gravy or in a classic fry-up.
Quick Tips and Facts:
1. Did you know that Cumberland sausage is the only British sausage with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status? This means it can only be made in Cumbria and must adhere to specific production standards.
2. The traditional recipe for Cumberland sausage does not include breadcrumbs or rusk, unlike many other sausages. This gives it a unique texture and flavor profile that sets it apart from other varieties.
3. Cumberland sausage was originally made to be consumed cold during picnics or in sandwiches. It was a popular choice among farmers and shepherds due to its hearty and portable nature.
4. The distinctive shape of Cumberland sausage, often referred to as a “horseshoe,” was originally designed to ensure easy hanging and efficient drying. This shape also makes it perfect for fitting inside a baguette or bap.
5. In the past, Cumberland sausage was traditionally made with only pork meat. However, modern variations may include additional ingredients like herbs, spices, and even other meats such as venison or lamb for unique flavor combinations.
Chopped, Not Ground: The Unique Texture Of Cumberland Sausage
Cumberland sausage is renowned for its distinctive texture, which sets it apart from other sausages. Unlike traditional sausages that are ground or minced, Cumberland sausage is made by chopping the meat. This technique gives the sausage a chunky texture that adds to its appeal. The meat is cut into small pieces, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor and a satisfying mouthfeel. The chopped meat also contributes to the succulent texture, as it retains its juiciness and tends to be less dense than sausages that are ground or minced.
Another reason why the chopped technique is used for Cumberland sausage is to preserve the integrity of the meat. By chopping the meat, rather than grinding or mincing it, the distinct characteristics and flavors of the shoulder and belly cuts are maintained. This results in a sausage that showcases the quality of the meat and allows the natural flavors to shine through. The texture of Cumberland sausage is truly unique and contributes to its reputation as a beloved British delicacy.
Selecting The Right Cuts: Shoulder And Belly For Succulent Flavor
The success of cooking Cumberland sausage lies not only in the chopping technique but also in the selection of the right cuts of meat. To achieve a succulent and flavorful sausage, a combination of shoulder and belly cuts is used.
The shoulder provides a good amount of fat content, which is essential for a juicy and tender texture. The belly cuts, on the other hand, add depth of flavor and richness to the sausage.
- Both the shoulder and belly cuts contribute to the overall taste and texture of Cumberland sausage.
- The balance of lean meat from the shoulder and the fatty richness from the belly results in a well-rounded and satisfying eating experience.
When selecting the meat for your Cumberland sausage, ensure that it has the right amount of fat content to achieve the desired succulence and flavor.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Oven, Frying Pan, Or Barbecue
One of the great things about cooking Cumberland sausage is its versatility in cooking methods. Whether oven, pan-frying, or barbecue, you can cook Cumberland sausage to perfection using any of these methods.
For oven cooking, preheat your oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas 4. Rub olive oil over the sausage ring and place it in a medium-hot oven. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the sausages are golden brown. This method ensures even cooking and a beautifully browned exterior.
If you prefer pan-frying, heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the sausage ring in the pan and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning every 4 minutes to ensure even cooking. This method allows for more control over the cooking process and gives the sausages a nice caramelization on the outside.
For those who enjoy the flavors of an outdoor barbecue, Cumberland sausage can also be cooked on the grill. Simply place the sausage ring on a preheated barbecue and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and have a lovely charred exterior. The choice of cooking method is entirely up to you and will depend on your preferred flavors and cooking equipment.
Oven-Baked Perfection: Preheating And Turning For Golden Brown Sausages
If you want to oven bake your Cumberland sausage, follow these steps for golden brown sausages that are cooked to perfection. Preheat your oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas 4 to ensure that it reaches the right temperature for cooking. While the oven is preheating, rub olive oil over the sausage ring, ensuring it is evenly coated. This will help to promote browning and prevent sticking.
Place the oiled sausage ring on a baking tray or in an ovenproof dish and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning the sausages occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides. Keep an eye on them to prevent them from burning or overcooking.
When the sausages are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the sausages, resulting in a juicy and succulent bite. Oven-baked Cumberland sausages are a crowd-pleaser and make for a delightful main course.
Pan-Fried Deliciousness: Non-Stick Pan And Regular Flipping For Even Cooking
To enjoy Cumberland sausage in a delicious way, pan-frying is a fantastic technique. Here’s how to achieve pan-fried perfection:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and drizzle some olive oil.
- Once the oil is heated, evenly distribute the sausage ring in the pan.
- Cook the sausages for 15-20 minutes, turning them every 4 minutes for even cooking and browning.
- Regular flipping helps achieve an evenly browned exterior and prevents overcooking.
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The non-stick pan ensures sausages don’t stick and allows for easy flipping.
Note: This pan-frying method creates a delicious caramelized color.
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Once the sausages are cooked through and have a beautiful caramelized color, remove them from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Resting allows flavors to settle and juices to redistribute, resulting in a delicious and succulent bite.
Pan-fried Cumberland sausages can be enjoyed:
- On their own as a satisfying meal, or
- Used as a flavorful addition to a variety of dishes.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy With Mash And Onion Gravy Or In A Classic Fry-Up
Cumberland sausage is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. One classic way to enjoy it is with mash and onion gravy. Cook your Cumberland sausages using your preferred cooking method and serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Top it off with a generous drizzle of homemade onion gravy and you’ll have a comforting and flavorful meal.
For a hearty and traditional British fry-up, Cumberland sausage is a must-have component. Cook your sausages to perfection and serve them alongside bacon, eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and black pudding. This iconic fry-up combination will satisfy your hunger and is a fantastic way to start the day.
Whether you choose to enjoy Cumberland sausage as part of a full English breakfast or as a standalone dish with mash and onion gravy, its spicy and peppery flavors are sure to delight your taste buds. With its unique texture, succulent flavor, and versatile cooking methods, Cumberland sausage is a true British delight that deserves a place on your dining table.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to fry Cumberland sausages?
To fry Cumberland sausages, start by heating a small amount of oil in a frying pan. Once the oil is hot, place the sausages in the pan and cook them over medium heat for about 14-16 minutes, turning them regularly to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on the heat to ensure they’re not being cooked too quickly or too slowly, as this may affect their taste and texture. Once they are cooked through and have a golden brown color, they are ready to be served. Enjoy these delicious sausages in a variety of ways, such as in a sandwich or with potatoes and vegetables for a hearty meal.
What is the correct way to cook sausages?
To prepare sausages properly, begin by heating a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, place the sausages in it. Allow them to cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, ensuring that you continuously move and turn them to achieve even cooking. The sausages are done when their outer layer is a rich golden brown, while the inside remains pale with no traces of pink meat. This cooking method guarantees delicious sausages with a perfectly cooked interior and a beautifully golden exterior.
How to cook butchers Cumberland sausages?
To cook Butchers Cumberland sausages, preheat the oven to 190°C/ Fan 170°C/ Gas 5. Take the sausages out of their packaging and arrange them on a baking tray. Ensure that the sausages are placed on the middle shelf of the oven. Cook them for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. This method will result in deliciously cooked sausages with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Are Cumberland sausages precooked?
No, Cumberland sausages are not precooked. They are classified as a fully cooked product, ready to use, but they still require cooking before consumption. These sausages are made from pork and come in a coiled shape, seasoned with various spices, herbs, and seasonings. It is important to cook Cumberland sausages thoroughly to ensure they are safe to eat and fully enjoy their distinct flavor and texture.