Deer Sausage Cooking: The Ultimate Guide

Let's talk about deer sausage, that delectable wild game treat. Whether you get it from your local butcher or make it yourself (you culinary whizz!), deer sausage brings a unique flavour to the table. I've been cooking with it for years, and trust me, there’s a knack to getting it just right. So, grab a comfy chair, a cuppa, and let me guide you through my tried and true methods for turning this fantastic meat into a feast.

(Part 1) Choosing the Right Deer Sausage

The first step in any good cooking adventure is choosing the right ingredients. When it comes to deer sausage, that means selecting the perfect type. There's a whole world of deer sausage varieties, each with its own character and personality, waiting to be explored.

Understanding the Different Deer sausage types

To make things easier, let's break down some of the most common types you'll encounter:

• Coarse Ground Deer Sausage: Imagine a robust, hearty sausage with a bolder flavour and a satisfyingly chunky texture. This is the star of hearty dishes like casseroles, stews, or even a classic bangers and mash.
• Fine Ground Deer Sausage: This type offers a more delicate experience, with a finer grind resulting in a tender sausage that's easy to cook quickly. Perfect for breakfast bangers, sausage rolls, or even adding a touch of wild game flavour to a stir-fry.
• Spicy Deer Sausage: For those who like a little heat in their lives, spicy deer sausage is the way to go. Think bold chilli notes, or perhaps a blend of fiery spices, adding a real kick to your dishes. Ideal for a fiery pasta sauce or a spicy sausage roll.
• Herbed Deer Sausage: A symphony of flavours! These sausages are infused with a blend of aromatic herbs, like rosemary, thyme, or sage, giving them a complex and inviting flavour profile. Try it in a hearty stew or a simple sausage and onion gravy.
• Smoked Deer Sausage: This type has a distinctive smoky aroma and flavour, achieved by smoking the meat during the curing process. It's perfect for grilling, adding a smoky depth to a BBQ, or even enjoying straight off the pan.

Deciding on the Right Deer Sausage for Your Dish

When choosing your deer sausage, think about the dish you're planning to make. A heavier, coarse-ground sausage is a natural choice for a hearty stew, while a fine-ground sausage is ideal for a lighter breakfast dish. Consider the flavour profile of the sausage and how it will complement the other ingredients in your dish.

(Part 2) The Art of Handling Deer Sausage

Now we're getting into the finer points, the art of handling your deer sausage. This isn't just about getting it out of the packet; it's about respecting the meat and ensuring it stays juicy and flavourful.

Don’t Overcook It!

One of the biggest mistakes people make with deer sausage is overcooking it. Remember, venison is leaner than, say, pork, so it can become dry quickly if you're not careful. The goal is to cook it until it's just cooked through, with a nice pink centre. No one wants a dry, tough sausage, right?

Storing Deer Sausage Properly

Proper storage is key to keeping your deer sausage fresh and delicious. Ideally, keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 4°C or lower. If you need to freeze it, make sure to wrap it tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.

(Part 3) Cooking Deer Sausage to Perfection

Now, the moment we've been waiting for - the cooking! Let's explore some of my favourite ways to cook up a delicious batch of deer sausage.

The Classic Pan-Fried Method

This is a simple but effective method for cooking deer sausage. Here's how to do it:

1. Heat a large pan over a medium heat. Add a little oil to the pan and let it get hot.
2. Carefully add the sausages to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the sausages from the pan and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

A Touch of the Grill for a Smokey Flavour

If you're feeling adventurous, try grilling your deer sausage for a smoky flavour. You'll want a hot grill, but keep it on medium heat to avoid burning the sausage. Remember to keep an eye on the sausages and turn them every few minutes to ensure they cook evenly.

Aromatic Roast for a Hearty Dish

For a hearty, comforting dish, try roasting your deer sausage. Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan 160°C). Place the sausages in a roasting tin and add a few sprigs of rosemary and a bay leaf for a bit of extra flavour. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

The Versatile Sausage Stew

A classic for a reason, this stew is a perfect way to make the most of deer sausage. Brown the sausages in a large pan, then add chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes. Pour in some stock and simmer until the vegetables are tender. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer flavour.

(Part 4) Delicious Deer sausage recipes

Now that you've got the basics down, let's dive into some specific recipes to get those taste buds tingling.

The Ultimate Deer Sausage and Mash

This dish is a classic for a reason - simple, hearty, and utterly delicious. Here's what you'll need:

500g deer sausage

1 large onion, chopped

2 tbsp olive oil

1 kg potatoes, peeled and diced

1 tsp gravy granules

200 ml vegetable stock

1. Peel and chop the potatoes. Add them to a pan of boiling water and cook until tender.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the sausage to the pan and cook until browned all over.
4. Add the gravy granules and stock to the pan and bring to a simmer. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened.
5. Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth. Add a knob of butter and some milk for a creamier mash.
6. Serve the sausage and gravy over the mashed potato.

A Delicious Deer Sausage Roll

Here's a recipe for a classic sausage roll with a twist, using deer sausage:

500g deer sausage

1 onion, chopped

1 tbsp apple sauce

1 tsp dried sage

300g ready-made puff pastry

1 egg, beaten

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan 160°C). Line a baking tray with baking parchment.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sausage, onion, apple sauce, and sage. Mix well.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle about 30cm x 40cm.
4. Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 2cm border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry over the sausage mixture to form a long sausage roll.
6. Trim the edges of the pastry, press down firmly to seal, and brush with the beaten egg.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.

A Hearty Deer Sausage Stew with wild mushrooms

This stew is packed with flavour and perfect for a chilly evening:

500g deer sausage

1 large onion, chopped

2 carrots, chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp tomato paste

500 ml beef stock

200g wild mushrooms, sliced

2 tbsp chopped parsley

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over a medium heat. Brown the sausage all over.
2. Add the onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute more.
4. Pour in the beef stock, bring to a simmer, and add the mushrooms.
5. Cook for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

(Part 5) Pairing Deer Sausage with Sides

Now, let's talk about the perfect sides to accompany your deer sausage dishes. You want something that complements the flavour, not overpowers it.

The Classic Mash

You can't go wrong with mashed potatoes. It's a staple for a reason. For a bit of extra flavour, add some herbs like chives or parsley, or even some grated cheese.

Crispy roast vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add a burst of sweetness and colour to your plate. They’re simple to make and can be tossed in olive oil, herbs, and spices before roasting.

A Touch of Green with Peas or green beans

For a bit of colour and freshness, try peas or green beans. They’re quick to cook and add a lovely contrast in texture to the sausages.

A Rich and Creamy Gravy

A rich and creamy gravy really takes your sausage dishes to the next level. You can make a simple gravy by whisking together flour, butter, and stock, or you can get more adventurous with a red wine gravy or a mushroom gravy.

A Side of Seasonal Salad

For a lighter option, a simple salad with seasonal greens and a vinaigrette dressing can add a refreshing element to your meal.

(Part 6) Serving Deer Sausage with Style

We're nearing the end of our deer sausage journey, but it's not over yet! Let's talk about how to serve your culinary creation in a way that’ll impress your guests.

Presentation is Key

Remember, it's not just about the taste, it's also about the look. So, take a little extra time to make your dish visually appealing.

A splash of colour: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or a few sprigs of rosemary can add a touch of colour and freshness.

Strategic plating: Arrange your sausages and sides in a way that looks attractive and inviting.

A touch of garnish: A dollop of creamy mashed potato, a drizzle of gravy, or a few slices of lemon can add a finishing touch.

The Perfect Accompaniments

Now, let's talk about those delicious drinks that go so well with deer sausage:

A robust red wine: A good Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot will complement the richness of the meat.

A crisp cider: For a more casual affair, a refreshing cider will do the trick.

A cool beer: A pale ale or a lager will cut through the richness of the dish.

(Part 7) Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you avoid any culinary mishaps and create those delicious deer sausage dishes you’ve always dreamt of:

Don’t Overcook Your Sausage

Deer sausage is leaner than pork sausage, so it can dry out easily. Cook it until it’s just cooked through, with a nice pink centre.

Use a meat thermometer

For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to ensure your sausage is cooked through to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F).

Keep an Eye on the Heat

If you’re pan-frying your sausage, make sure the heat is medium-high. This will help to ensure the sausage cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.

Rest Your Sausage Before Serving

After cooking, let your sausage rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful sausage.

(Part 8) FAQs

Now, let's answer some common questions you might have about cooking deer sausage:

1. How do I know if my deer sausage is cooked through?

Deer sausage is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. If the sausage is firm to the touch and no longer pink in the centre, it is likely cooked through.

2. Can I freeze deer sausage?

Yes, you can freeze deer sausage. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer the sausage from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight.

3. Can I use deer sausage in place of pork sausage in recipes?

Yes, you can use deer sausage in place of pork sausage in most recipes. Just be aware that deer sausage is leaner than pork sausage, so it may dry out more quickly. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, or add a bit of moisture to the recipe (such as extra stock or a splash of wine).

4. What are some good ways to add flavour to deer sausage?

You can add flavour to deer sausage by using herbs, spices, or even a touch of sweetness. Some popular flavour combinations include rosemary and garlic, thyme and sage, or apple and cinnamon. Experiment with different flavour profiles to find your favourites!

5. How can I tell if my deer sausage is bad?

Deer sausage that has gone bad will have an off-putting smell or taste. It may also have a slimy texture or be discolored. If you’re unsure, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.

(Part 9) Final Thoughts

There you have it - a comprehensive guide to cooking deer sausage. Now you're armed with the knowledge and techniques to create delicious meals that’ll impress your friends and family. Remember, practice makes perfect. So, get in the kitchen, experiment with different recipes, and have fun with it! Happy cooking!