Savory Venison Summer Sausage: A Delicious Oven Recipe for Any Occasion!

Introduction

If you’re a fan of wild game meats and looking for a delightful way to enjoy venison, this Savory Venison Summer Sausage recipe is perfect for you! Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing for a tailgate or a cozy gathering, this recipe will certainly impress your guests.

Why Choose Venison Summer Sausage?

Venison summer sausage is a flavorful alternative to traditional pork or beef sausages. Rich in protein and low in fat, it delivers a deliciously unique taste that complements various dishes. Plus, using wild game meat means you’re enjoying a product that’s closer to nature!

Ingredients List

To make your own Savory Venison Summer Sausage, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground venison (preferably from the hindquarter)
• 1 pound pork fat (or bacon for a smokier flavor)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon mustard seed
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon Prague Powder #1 (curing salt, important for safety and color)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• Cooking twine (for tying)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Grind the Meats: Using a meat grinder, combine the ground venison and pork fat. If you don’t have a grinder, you can ask your local butcher to do this for you.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard seed, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and Prague Powder #1 until evenly combined.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the Worcestershire sauce and cold water to the meat mixture. Gradually fold in the spice mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Sausage

1. Form the Logs: Take the combined mixture and shape it into 2 logs about 3 inches in diameter. Tightly wrap each log in plastic wrap to hold it together.

2. Chill: Place the wrapped logs in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

1. Get Ready to Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°F (82°C). This low temperature is key for ensuring the sausage cooks through without drying out.

Step 5: Bake the Sausage

1. Cook the Logs: Unwrap the sausage logs and place them in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

2. Cool Down: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute in the meat.

Serving Suggestions

Slice your Savory Venison Summer Sausage and serve it with cheese, crackers, and your favorite condiments. It’s perfect for charcuterie boards or as a savory addition to sandwiches. Pair it with mustard or homemade relish for a delightful crunch.

Tips for Preparation and Serving

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices and herbs to enhance the flavor.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other spices like fennel seed or smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.
• Storage: Vacuum seal the sausage for longer storage, or keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Pairing: Enjoy the sausage with a robust red wine or a craft beer to elevate the experience.

Recipe Notes

Alternatives

• Protein Options: If venison is unavailable, you can substitute with lean beef or turkey.
• Fat Source: Substitute pork fat with chicken fat or a combination of beef and pork for a different flavor.

Additional Cooking Details

• Curing: Using Prague Powder #1 is essential for food safety when preparing ground meats that aren’t cooked immediately.
• Cooking Method: If you prefer, you can also smoke the sausages instead of baking for a deeper flavor.

Variations

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate brown sugar and jalapeño peppers for a sweet and spicy kick.

With this Savory Venison Summer Sausage recipe, you’ll not only impress your friends and family but also build a great confidence in cooking wild game meats at home! Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch!