How to Cook Sausage So Skin Isn’t Tough?
To cook sausage so the skin isn’t tough, there are a few methods you can try.
Grilling the sausage on medium heat for 6 minutes on each side can result in a juicy and flavorful end product.
However, be cautious of occasional flame flare-ups that may split the casing and create inconsistent charring.
Another method involves simmering the sausages in water first and then searing them in a hot pan.
This two-step technique helps to retain moisture and achieve a crispy exterior.
Quick Tips and Facts:
1. Did you know that sausages were first invented by the ancient Sumerians around 2000 BC? They wrapped ground meat in animal intestines, a technique that has been passed down through generations and is still used today.
2. Sausages made with poultry meat, such as chicken or turkey, are commonly referred to as “poultry sausages.” They are an excellent alternative for individuals looking for a leaner and healthier option compared to traditional pork or beef sausages.
3. Ever wondered why sausages typically have a curved shape? The most widely accepted theory is that butchers used to tie sausages at regular intervals along a string, causing them to hang and develop that curved appearance.
4. You might assume that sausages are named after the city of Frankfurt in Germany, as in “Frankfurter sausages.” However, it is believed that the city of Frankfurt actually borrowed the name from an older sausage, known as “Francfort.” This precursor to the modern hot dog was popular in France and thus earned a similar name.
5. Have you ever noticed that sausages tend to split open when cooked? That’s usually a sign that they are cooked too quickly at high heat. To avoid this, gently pierce them with a fork before cooking to release any built-up steam and reduce the risk of bursting.
Introduction And Cooking Methods
When it comes to cooking sausage, achieving a tender and delicious result is paramount. One of the key factors in ensuring a successful outcome is the texture of the sausage skin. No one wants to sink their teeth into tough and chewy casing. Thankfully, there are a variety of cooking methods available to us that can prevent this unpleasant experience.
In this article, we will explore three different cooking methods: oven, grill, and stovetop, to find the best way to cook sausage so the skin isn’t tough.
Oven Cooking Method
The oven cooking method is often praised for its hands-off approach. It involves placing the sausages on a baking sheet and allowing them to cook in the oven. While this method is simple and convenient, it does have its downsides. One major drawback is that the sausages tend to lack the desired crunch around the casing. The oven doesn’t provide sufficient direct heat to the sausages, resulting in a softer texture. So, if a crispy and crunchy skin is what you’re aiming for, this may not be the ideal method for you.
Grilling Method On A Propane Grill
Grilling sausage on a propane grill offers a convenient alternative, especially for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of charcoal. To cook sausages on a propane grill, the initial step is to preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot enough, place the sausages on the grates. However, be cautious as the high heat can cause occasional flame flare-ups, which may result in the casing breaking in a few small areas. To minimize this risk, turning down the heat and cooking the sausages a bit longer is recommended. Despite this minor inconvenience, grilling the sausages imparts a delightful woodsy and smoky flavor while maintaining a juicy and flavorful result. This method is particularly enjoyable for grill masters at tailgates or for creating mouthwatering appetizers.
Stovetop Cooking Method
Cooking sausage on a stovetop is another option to achieve a consistently delicious outcome. This method requires frequent tossing and turning of the sausages to ensure even browning. However, the article does not provide specific details or results regarding cooking sausage on a stovetop. It can be assumed that this method may provide a more hands-on and precise control over the cooking process, allowing for a perfectly browned and tender sausage.
- Stovetop cooking method requires frequent tossing and turning for even browning
- Provides a more hands-on and precise control over the cooking process
“Cooking sausage on a stovetop may provide a more hands-on and precise control over the cooking process.”
(Note: A blockquote is not appropriate in this context as the text is not a direct quotation from another source.)
Recommended Grilling Method For Juicy And Flavorful Sausages
After testing various methods, the article recommends a specific grilling technique to ensure juicy and flavorful sausages without a tough skin.
To begin, preheat the grill to medium heat. Next, place the sausages on the grill grates and cook them for approximately 6 minutes on each side. It is recommended to use 18-inch stainless steel tongs to flip the sausages gently.
This method aims to bring out the smoky and woodsy flavors of the sausages while maintaining their juiciness. However, it’s important to note that occasional flame flare-ups may occur during grilling, which can result in the casing splitting or inconsistent charring.
Despite this small setback, this method is highly recommended for those looking to impress as grill masters at tailgates or create tantalizing appetizers.
Two-Step Technique For Non-Tough Skin
For those looking to achieve sausages with a tender skin, a two-step technique is recommended.
This method involves simmering the sausages in water first, followed by searing them in a hot pan.
To start, place the sausages in a pot or saucepan and cover them with enough cold water.
Heat the pot until the water reaches a gentle simmer, and then remove it from the heat.
Next, slice the sausages or leave them intact and place them in a hot pan greased with oil to get a desirable color and crispness.
This two-step technique guarantees a tender and succulent sausage with a deliciously caramelized exterior.
The cooked sausages can be used in a variety of dishes such as sandwiches, toast, rice, pasta, or enjoyed on their own.
So why wait? Try out these techniques and enjoy sausages with perfectly tender skins every time you cook them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you cook sausages so the skin isn’t tough?
For tender sausages with a perfect skin, start by heating a heavy-based non-stick frying pan on low to medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and coat the surface. Once the butter is melted, carefully place the sausages in the pan, ensuring they are not touching each other. Maintain a constant heat and cook the sausages slowly, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning. Once cooked, remove the sausages from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help to retain their juiciness and ensure a tender, non-tough skin.
How do you soften sausage casings?
To soften sausage casings, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions of soaking them for one hour, flushing, and then soaking for an additional hour. However, if a softer texture is desired, it is recommended to prolong the soaking time and change the water more frequently. This allows for proper rehydration of the salt-preserved intestine while effectively removing excess salt. Ensuring thorough soaking and water changes is key to achieving the desired texture for sausage casings.
How do you cook sausages so they are tender?
To achieve tender sausages, begin by placing them in a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium heat. Allow the sausages to cook for a few minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown color. Then, pour a bit of water into the skillet, cover it with a lid, and lower the heat. Allow the sausages to simmer in the steam for about 10-12 minutes, ensuring they are thoroughly cooked while maintaining their tenderness. This method of gradually cooking the sausages helps retain their moisture and results in a delectably tender texture.
Should I boil sausage before frying?
Parboiling sausage before frying can be a matter of personal preference. Boiling it first can help in ensuring that the sausage is cooked evenly and thoroughly. This method can also help to reduce the overall cooking time when frying or grilling the sausage. However, it is important to note that boiling alone may not yield the desired flavor and texture, as frying or grilling can provide a crispy and browned exterior. So, while it is not necessary to boil sausage before frying, it can be a helpful step to achieve a more evenly cooked and flavorful final result.