The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Delicious Sausages

Right, let’s talk sausages. You know, the humble sausage – a culinary staple that has graced our plates for centuries. From bangers and mash to sausage rolls, these little bundles of joy are a true testament to the art of food. But cooking sausages is not just about throwing them in a pan and hoping for the best. There's a real skill to getting them perfectly cooked – juicy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and bursting with flavour. This guide is my attempt to demystify the art of sausage cookery. I’ll take you on a journey through all things sausage, from choosing the perfect sausage to mastering different cooking methods. We’ll explore the world of sausage flavours, share some of my favourite recipes, and even delve into the fascinating history of this iconic food. So, grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and let’s get cooking!

(Part 1) Choosing Your Sausages: The Foundation of a Great Dish

The first step to a delicious sausage dish is choosing the right sausage. It's all about knowing what you’re looking for. There are sausages for every taste, so consider what you're going to be serving them with. Are you looking for a classic pork sausage to pair with mash and gravy, a spicy chorizo for your tapas platter, or maybe something a bit more adventurous like a venison sausage for your BBQ?

Understanding Sausage Types: A World of Flavour

Let's break it down. Sausages are generally categorized by their meat content. Here's a quick rundown of some common types:

• Pork sausages: The classic British banger, often made with a blend of pork and herbs. They’re versatile and work well in a variety of dishes. From the traditional "bangers" for a Sunday roast to a more sophisticated sausage roll, pork sausages offer a classic, satisfying flavour. Look for sausages with a good mix of fat and lean meat for a juicy and flavorful result.
• Beef sausages: These tend to have a richer flavour and can be a little firmer in texture. They’re great for grilling or barbecuing. The robust taste of beef makes it ideal for hearty dishes like a sausage and bean stew or a BBQ with a smoky char. You'll often find beef sausages with a slightly coarser texture, which adds to their rustic appeal.
• Lamb sausages: With a distinct, slightly gamey flavour, these sausages are perfect for Mediterranean-inspired dishes or hearty stews. Lamb sausages bring a touch of exoticism to your meals, making them a great choice for dishes with Middle Eastern or North African influences. The flavour is enhanced when paired with spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika.
• Chicken sausages: A lighter option, these sausages are often flavoured with herbs and spices, making them a great choice for a healthy dinner. Chicken sausages are a versatile choice for those looking for a lower-fat option. They can be enjoyed grilled, pan-fried, or baked, and their flavour pairs well with a variety of sauces and sides.
• Sausage mixes: Many butchers and supermarkets offer sausage mixes like pork and apple, or pork and sage. They’re a great way to add a little extra flavour to your dishes. Sausage mixes offer a delightful blend of tastes and textures. Pork and apple sausages are a classic combination, while pork and sage bring a touch of earthy elegance. Don't be afraid to experiment with other combinations like pork and chorizo for a spicy twist.

The Importance of Freshness: A Taste of Quality

Freshness is key! Look for sausages that are plump, firm, and have a slightly pink colour. Avoid any sausages that are discoloured, slimy, or have a strong odour. I usually buy my sausages from a local butcher. Not only do they offer a wider variety, but the quality is generally better, and you can often have a chat with the butcher and get their recommendations. They can guide you through the different types and flavours, ensuring you choose the perfect sausage for your needs. They might even have some unique and seasonal varieties that you won't find in the supermarket.

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Expand Your Sausage Horizons

Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new! There's a whole world of flavours out there, from spicy chorizo to smoky Cumberland sausages. You might just discover your new favourite sausage. Remember, the best way to find a sausage you love is to experiment and see what you enjoy. It’s all about having fun and trying new things. Exploring different sausages is like a culinary adventure. You never know what delicious surprise you might find.

(Part 2) Cooking Your Sausages: Mastering the Techniques

Okay, you've got your sausages, now it's time to cook them. As a seasoned sausage enthusiast, I can tell you that the cooking method makes a big difference in the final outcome. You want to cook them to perfection, ensuring they’re juicy and flavourful, and with a lovely crispy skin.

Pan-Frying: The Classic Method for a Crispy Skin

Pan-frying is the most common way to cook sausages, and for good reason. It's simple, quick, and delivers a delicious result. The high heat of the pan creates a crisp, golden brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

• Heat a pan: Heat a large frying pan over a medium heat. You don’t need to add oil unless the sausages are very lean. If you are using oil, ensure it’s nice and hot before adding the sausages. A hot pan ensures the sausages sear quickly, preventing them from releasing too much moisture.
• Cook the sausages: Add the sausages to the pan and cook for about 10 minutes, turning them every couple of minutes to ensure they cook evenly. You’re looking for a nice, golden brown colour all over. You can also cook them over a lower heat for longer, but be sure to keep them covered to avoid them drying out. Cooking over a lower heat for longer allows the sausages to cook more slowly, resulting in a more tender texture. However, be careful not to overcook them.
• Rest and serve: Once the sausages are cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a plate to rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and juicy sausage. Resting the sausages allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, creating a more even texture and a tastier bite.

Grilling: For a Smoky Flavour and a Charred Bite

Grilling sausages is a perfect choice for summer barbecues or any occasion where you want a smoky, charred flavour.

• Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. A preheated grill ensures the sausages cook evenly and develop a nice char.
• Grill the sausages: Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every couple of minutes to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and cooked through. Grilling sausages allows them to absorb the smoky flavour of the coals, adding a delicious dimension to their taste.
• Rest and serve: Remove the sausages from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. As with pan-frying, resting the sausages after grilling allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.

Baking: For a More Even Cook and a Crispy Skin

Baking is a great option if you want to cook a larger batch of sausages or if you're concerned about them sticking to the pan. Baking provides a more even cook and prevents sticking, making it a reliable and convenient option.

• Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). A preheated oven ensures the sausages cook through quickly and evenly.
• Bake the sausages: Place the sausages on a baking tray and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Baking allows the sausages to cook slowly and gently, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.
• Rest and serve: Remove the sausages from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Resting the sausages ensures the juices redistribute, enhancing their flavor and tenderness.

Roast in the Oven: For a More Indulgent Experience and a Crisp Exterior

For a slightly more decadent approach to cooking your sausages, roast them in the oven. This will give them a beautifully crispy skin and juicy insides. I use this method for sausages that I want to serve with a rich gravy. Roasting in the oven brings a touch of elegance to your sausage dish, resulting in a crispy exterior and a flavorful, juicy interior.

• Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). A preheated oven ensures the sausages cook quickly and evenly.
• Prep the sausages: Place the sausages on a baking tray. You can either arrange them in a single layer or stack them on top of each other, depending on your preferences. Drizzle a little oil over the sausages and season generously with salt and pepper. Drizzling the sausages with oil helps them achieve a golden brown colour and a crispy skin.
• Roast the sausages: Roast the sausages in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. They’re ready when the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. Roasting the sausages allows the fat to render, creating a crispy skin and a flavorful, juicy interior.
• Rest and serve: Remove the sausages from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Resting the sausages allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing their flavour and tenderness.

(Part 3) Delicious Sausage Dishes: Exploring the Possibilities

Right, we've talked about choosing the perfect sausage and mastered some cooking methods. Now, let's get creative with some delicious sausage recipes. There are countless ways to enjoy sausages, but here are some of my favourites:

Classic Bangers and Mash: A British Icon

This is a true British classic! It’s simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious. You can’t go wrong with a good old-fashioned bangers and mash. The combination of juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy is a true comfort food experience.

• Cook the sausages: Pan-fry your sausages until golden brown and cooked through. Pan-frying the sausages creates a crispy exterior and ensures they cook evenly.
• Mash the potatoes: Boil some potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to sausages, offering a creamy and comforting contrast to the savory sausages.
• Make the gravy: Make a simple onion gravy by frying some onions in butter, then adding flour and stock. Simmer until thickened. You can also use a pre-made gravy, but I always prefer making my own! A rich and flavorful onion gravy enhances the overall experience of the bangers and mash, bringing together the flavors of the dish.
• Serve: Place the sausages on top of the mashed potatoes and drizzle with gravy.

Sausage Rolls: A British Favourite for a Reason

These are a British favourite for a reason – they're incredibly tasty and versatile. You can make them with any kind of sausage, but I prefer pork sausage with a mix of herbs and spices. Sausage rolls are a delicious and convenient snack or appetizer. The flaky pastry and savory filling make them a crowd-pleaser.

• Make the sausage mixture: Mix the cooked sausage meat with some breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. You can also add chopped onions, apples, or other ingredients to give it a twist. The sausage mixture is the heart of the sausage roll, and you can tailor it to your taste. Adding chopped onions, apples, or even cheese adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
• Roll the dough: Roll out some puff pastry and cut it into long strips. Place a sausage mixture along the centre of each strip and roll up to form a sausage roll. Puff pastry is the perfect base for sausage rolls, creating a light and flaky exterior.
• Bake the sausage rolls: Place the sausage rolls on a baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Baking the sausage rolls allows the pastry to rise and become crispy, while ensuring the sausage filling is cooked through.

Sausage and Bean Stew: A Hearty and Comforting Dish

This is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter's night. I like to use a mix of sausages for a more complex flavour, such as pork, beef, and chorizo. Sausage and bean stew is a classic comfort food that is both filling and flavorful. The combination of sausages, beans, and vegetables creates a satisfying and warming dish.

• Fry the sausages: Fry the sausages in a large pan until golden brown and cooked through.
• Add the vegetables: Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pan and cook until softened. The vegetables add texture and flavor to the stew, creating a well-rounded dish.
• Add the beans: Add a tin of chopped tomatoes, a tin of beans (I like to use butter beans or kidney beans), and some stock to the pan. The beans add a creamy texture and a hearty element to the stew.
• Simmer: Simmer the stew for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Simmering the stew allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften, creating a more harmonious dish.
• Serve: Serve the stew with some crusty bread.

Sausage and Apple Casserole: A Delicious and Comforting Meal

This is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weekend lunch. You can use any kind of sausage, but I prefer a slightly sweet sausage like a pork and apple sausage. Sausage and apple casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. The combination of sausages and apples creates a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

• Fry the sausages: Fry the sausages in a large pan until golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
• Cook the apples: Add chopped apples to the pan and cook until softened. You can add some sugar to the pan if you like your apples to be a bit sweeter. Cooking the apples brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor.
• Add the sausages and sauce: Return the sausages to the pan and stir in a tablespoon of flour, then slowly add some stock until you have a nice, thick sauce. The flour helps to thicken the sauce, creating a rich and flavorful base for the casserole.
• Bake: Bake the casserole in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld and the apples to soften, creating a more harmonious dish.

Sausage Pasta: A Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

This is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. I like to use a spicy sausage like chorizo for this recipe. Sausage pasta is a simple and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sausages, pasta, and sauce creates a delicious and flavorful dish.

• Cook the pasta: Cook your pasta according to the package instructions.
• Fry the sausages: Fry the sausages in a large pan until golden brown and cooked through.
• Add the sauce: Add your favourite pasta sauce to the pan and simmer for a few minutes.
• Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

(Part 4) Delicious Sausage Sides: Complementing Your Main Course

Of course, no sausage dish is complete without the perfect sides. Here are some of my favourite pairings for sausages:

Mashed Potatoes: A Classic Pairing

This classic side dish is the perfect complement to sausages. It's hearty, comforting, and easy to make. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes provides a lovely contrast to the savory sausages.

Gravy: Enhancing the Flavour

A rich and flavourful gravy is a must-have for any sausage dish. You can make it from scratch or use a pre-made gravy. I like to add a little bit of mustard to my gravy for a bit of extra flavour. Gravy adds a touch of richness and moisture to the dish, while the mustard adds a tangy element.

Onion Gravy: A British Touch

For a classic British touch, I always recommend making onion gravy. You can make it by frying onions in butter, then adding flour and stock. Simmer until thickened. Onion gravy is a classic accompaniment for sausages, adding a savory and sweet depth of flavor to the dish.

Green Beans: A Light and Refreshing Side

Green beans are a light and refreshing side that pairs well with sausages. You can steam them, roast them, or fry them. I like to add a little bit of garlic and lemon juice to mine. Green beans provide a crisp and refreshing contrast to the richness of the sausages.

Peas: A Sweet and Textural Addition

Peas are another great side dish for sausages. They add a little sweetness and texture to the dish. You can add them to your gravy for a touch of extra flavour. Peas add a touch of sweetness and a delightful pop of color to the dish.

Cabbage: A Hearty Winter Side

Cabbage is a hearty side that's perfect for winter dinners. You can braise it, roast it, or fry it. I love to add a little bit of bacon to my cabbage for extra flavour. Cabbage provides a hearty and flavorful counterpoint to the sausages, especially during colder months.

Carrots: A Versatile and Nutritious Choice

Carrots are a great source of vitamins and minerals and they pair well with sausages. You can roast them, steam them, or boil them. I like to add a little bit of honey to mine for a touch of sweetness. Carrots provide a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish, complementing the savory sausages.

Apple Sauce: A Sweet and Tangy Pairing

Apple sauce is a sweet and tangy side that's perfect for sausages. You can make it from scratch or use a pre-made apple sauce. It’s a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your meal. Apple sauce provides a delightful contrast to the savory sausages, offering a sweet and tangy element.

Sauerkraut: A Bold and Adventurous Choice

If you're feeling adventurous, try serving your sausages with sauerkraut. It's a German dish made from fermented cabbage and it adds a unique flavour to your sausages. Sauerkraut adds a bold and tangy flavour to the dish, creating a unique and interesting pairing.

(Part 5) Sausage Sauce Ideas: Elevate Your Dishes

Let’s talk about sauces! A good sauce can elevate your sausage dish to new heights. It adds another layer of flavour and moisture, making your sausages even more delicious.

Classic Onion Gravy: A Simple Yet Delicious Option

You can't go wrong with a good old-fashioned onion gravy. It's simple, hearty, and perfect for soaking up those delicious sausage juices.

• Fry the onions: Fry some chopped onions in butter until softened.
• Add the flour: Add a tablespoon of flour to the pan and cook for a minute, stirring constantly.
• Add the stock: Slowly add some stock to the pan, whisking constantly until the gravy has thickened.
• Season: Season to taste with salt, pepper, and a pinch of brown sugar.

Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Rich and Delicious

This rich and creamy sauce is perfect for serving with sausages and mashed potatoes. It's also a great way to use up any leftover mushrooms.

• Fry the mushrooms: Fry some chopped mushrooms in butter until softened.
• Add the cream: Add some double cream to the pan and simmer until it has thickened.
• Season: Season to taste with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Spicy Tomato Sauce: A Burst of Flavour

A spicy tomato sauce is perfect for adding a kick to your sausage dish. I like to use a combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and chillies for this sauce.

• Fry the garlic and chillies: Fry some chopped garlic and chillies in olive oil until fragrant.
• Add the tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and simmer until the sauce has thickened.
• Season: Season to taste with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar.

Apple Sauce: A Sweet and Tangy Contrast

For a sweeter sauce, try apple sauce. It’s a classic pairing for pork sausages. You can make it from scratch or use a pre-made apple sauce.

• Peel and chop the apples: Peel and chop some apples into small pieces.
• Cook the apples: Cook the apples in a saucepan with a little water and sugar until they are soft and mushy.
• Blend the apples: Use a potato masher or a blender to blend the apples into a smooth sauce.

Mustard Sauce: A Tangy and Savory Addition

A mustard sauce adds a tangy flavour to your sausages. I like to use a combination of Dijon mustard and wholegrain mustard for this sauce.

• Mix the mustard: Mix equal parts Dijon mustard and wholegrain mustard in a bowl.
• Add the cream: Add a little double cream to the bowl and stir until the sauce is smooth.
• Season: Season to taste with salt and pepper.

(Part 6) Sausage Recipes for Special Occasions: Impress Your Guests

Sausages are not just for everyday meals. They can also be a star ingredient for special occasions. Here are a couple of recipes that are perfect for impressing your guests:

Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing: A Festive Treat

This stuffing is perfect for serving with a roast chicken or turkey. It’s festive, flavourful, and sure to impress your guests. Sausage and cranberry stuffing is a classic addition to any holiday meal, adding a touch of savory richness and festive flavor.

• Cook the sausage: Cook the sausage meat in a pan until browned and cooked through.
• Sauté the onions: Sauté some chopped onions in butter until softened.
• Combine the ingredients: Combine the cooked sausage meat, onions, breadcrumbs, herbs, and cranberries in a large bowl. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sage. The combination of sausage, cranberries, and herbs creates a delicious and festive stuffing.
• Stuff the chicken: Use the stuffing to stuff your chicken or turkey.

Sausage and Red Wine Casserole: A Warm and Hearty Dish

This hearty casserole is perfect for a cold winter's night. It’s packed with flavour and will warm you from the inside out. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to leave your guests feeling satisfied. Sausage and red wine casserole is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy meal. The combination of sausages, red wine, and vegetables creates a deep and satisfying flavor profile.

• Brown the sausages: Brown the sausages in a large ovenproof pot or casserole dish. Browning the sausages adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Add the vegetables: Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened. The vegetables add texture and flavor to the casserole, creating a well-rounded dish.
• Add the wine and stock: Pour in a bottle of red wine and some beef stock. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes. Red wine adds a rich and complex flavor to the casserole, while the beef stock provides a savory base.
• Add the herbs: Add fresh thyme and rosemary to the pot and simmer for another 15 minutes. The herbs add a touch of freshness and aroma to the casserole, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
• Bake: Bake the casserole in the oven for 30 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, creating a more harmonious dish.

(Part 7) FAQs: Answering Your Sausage Questions

You've got questions? I've got answers!

1. How long should I cook sausages for?

The cooking time for sausages will vary depending on the size and type of sausage, as well as the cooking method you're using. Generally, sausages should be cooked until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check if they're cooked through by cutting into one with a knife. The inside should be no longer pink.

2. Can I freeze sausages?

Yes, you can freeze sausages. To freeze them, simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook them, you can defrost them in the fridge overnight or cook them from frozen. If you're cooking them from frozen, you'll need to add a few minutes to the cooking time. It's important to freeze sausages properly to maintain their quality and prevent freezer burn.

3. What are the best sausages for grilling?

For grilling, I recommend using beef sausages or a mix of pork and beef sausages. These types of sausages have a richer flavour and can hold up well on the grill.

4. How do I make sausage gravy?

To make sausage gravy, you'll need to start by cooking some sausage meat in a pan until it's browned and cooked through. Then, you'll add some flour to the pan and cook it for a minute, stirring constantly. Next, slowly add some stock to the pan, whisking constantly until the gravy has thickened. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and a pinch of brown sugar. Sausage gravy is a classic accompaniment for biscuits, mashed potatoes, and other dishes.

5. How do I tell if a sausage is cooked through?

You can tell if a sausage is cooked through by cutting into one with a knife. The inside should be no longer pink. You can also check the internal temperature of the sausage using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 71 degrees Celsius (160 degrees Fahrenheit). It's important to ensure sausages are cooked through to prevent foodborne illness.

(Part 8) A Sausage Lover's Final Thoughts: Embrace the World of Sausage

So there you have it! My ultimate guide to cooking delicious sausages. From choosing the perfect sausage to mastering different cooking methods and whipping up some delicious recipes, I hope this guide has inspired you to embrace the world of sausages. Remember, cooking sausages is about having fun and experimenting with different flavours and techniques. Don't be afraid to try new things! Now, go forth and create some sausage magic!