What To Know
- Whether you prefer a classic Italian link or a spicy chorizo, the perfect sausage can transform your backyard barbecue into a culinary masterpiece.
- It has a robust flavor and a juicy texture, best served on a bun with sauerkraut or onions.
- A classic Italian sausage with a balanced flavor profile, perfect for a variety of dishes.
Grilling season is upon us, and it’s time to elevate your grilling game with the best sausage for grill. Whether you prefer a classic Italian link or a spicy chorizo, the perfect sausage can transform your backyard barbecue into a culinary masterpiece. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the vast world of sausages, helping you choose the ideal ones for your grilling adventures.
Types of Sausage for Grilling
1. Italian Sausage: A versatile choice with a mild to spicy flavor profile. It can be grilled whole or sliced, making it perfect for sandwiches, pasta dishes, and grilled pizzas.
2. Bratwurst: A German sausage made with pork, beef, or veal. It has a robust flavor and a juicy texture, best served on a bun with sauerkraut or onions.
3. Chorizo: A spicy Spanish sausage made with pork and paprika. Its bold flavor adds a kick to any dish, from tacos to paella.
4. Polish Kielbasa: A smoked sausage with a garlicky flavor. It’s perfect for grilling whole or sliced and can be paired with sauerkraut or grilled onions.
5. Andouille: A Cajun sausage made with pork, beef, and spices. Its smoky and spicy flavor adds depth to gumbos, jambalayas, and other Cajun dishes.
6. Breakfast Sausage: A mild sausage made with pork, sage, and other spices. It’s ideal for grilling as patties or links for breakfast sandwiches or brunch dishes.
7. Merguez: A North African sausage made with lamb or beef and spices. Its flavorful and slightly spicy nature complements grilled vegetables and couscous.
Choosing the Best Sausage for Grill
1. Freshness: Always choose fresh sausages that are not discolored or slimy. They should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to grill.
2. Flavor: Consider your taste preferences and the dishes you plan to prepare. Choose sausages with flavors that complement your ingredients.
3. Size: The size of the sausage will determine the cooking time. Smaller sausages cook faster, while larger sausages may require indirect grilling or pre-cooking.
4. Casing: Sausages come with either natural or synthetic casings. Natural casings offer a crispier texture, while synthetic casings are more durable and easier to grill.
Grilling Techniques for the Best Sausage
1. Direct Grilling: Grill sausages directly over medium heat, turning frequently to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F.
2. Indirect Grilling: This method is ideal for larger sausages or those that need to cook more slowly. Grill sausages on the outer edges of the grill, away from direct heat, for 20-30 minutes.
3. Pre-Cooking: For sausages with thicker casings, pre-cook them in boiling water for 5-10 minutes before grilling. This helps reduce cooking time and prevents the casings from bursting.
Recipes to Savor
1. Grilled Italian Sausage Sandwiches: Grill Italian sausages until cooked through. Serve on toasted buns with grilled peppers, onions, and your favorite toppings.
2. Bratwurst and Sauerkraut: Grill bratwurst sausages until browned. Serve on a bun with sauerkraut, mustard, and a side of grilled onions.
3. Chorizo and Potato Tacos: Grill chorizo sausages until cooked through. Combine with grilled potatoes, onions, and cilantro for flavorful tacos.
4. Smoked Kielbasa and Cabbage: Grill kielbasa sausages until browned. Sauté cabbage with onions and caraway seeds. Serve sausages on top of the cabbage.
5. Grilled Merguez and Couscous: Grill merguez sausages until cooked through. Serve with steamed couscous, grilled vegetables, and harissa sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Grill
1. Clean the grill: Clean the grill grates thoroughly before grilling to prevent food from sticking.
2. Preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to the desired temperature before adding sausages.
3. Use a grill brush: Brush the sausages with a grill brush to remove excess grease and prevent flare-ups.
4. Don’t overcook: Grill sausages until cooked through but avoid overcooking, which can dry them out.
5. Let them rest: Let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
The Verdict: Our Top Picks
Based on our extensive research and grilling experience, here are our top picks for the best sausage for grill:
1. Johnsonville Italian Sausage: A classic Italian sausage with a balanced flavor profile, perfect for a variety of dishes.
2. Brat Haus Bratwurst: A traditional German bratwurst with a juicy texture and robust flavor, ideal for grilling or boiling.
3. Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage: A healthier alternative with a mild and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for grilling or baking.
Beyond the Grill: Sausage Delights
1. Sausage Pizza: Top a pizza crust with grilled Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
2. Sausage and Egg Casserole: Combine grilled breakfast sausage, eggs, cheese, and vegetables in a casserole dish for a hearty and protein-packed breakfast.
3. Sausage and Bean Soup: Simmer grilled Italian sausage with beans, vegetables, and broth for a comforting and flavorful soup.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. How do I store leftover sausages?
Store leftover sausages in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
2. Can I grill frozen sausages?
Yes, you can grill frozen sausages. However, they will take longer to cook than fresh sausages. Thaw them partially before grilling to reduce cooking time.
3. What is the best way to prevent flare-ups when grilling sausages?
Trim excess fat from sausages before grilling and use a grill brush to remove grease while grilling. Avoid using high heat, as this can cause flare-ups.
