How Sausage is Made: A Step by Step Guide

 

If you’ve ever strolled through the aisles at PriceSmart or sat down for a meal at Murray’s, you’ve likely seen those thick, gourmet sausages. They are a far cry from the tinned sausages many of us grew up with. With prices starting around $2000 per dozen (depending on the size), they are definitely a premium treat.

While these sausages are incredibly popular, I’ll be the first to tell you that I’m a bit "thin-skinned" when it comes to the casing literally! I usually find myself removing the meat from the casing before I even start cooking. Plus, because it is a processed meat, I’m always mindful of the nitrates used for preservation. It’s one of those things I enjoy in moderation.

However, for the food lovers and the curious cooks, understanding how these sausages are actually put together is fascinating. There is a real craft to getting that texture and flavor profile just right.

What’s Really Inside?

In my latest video, "How Sausage is Made: A Step-by-Step Guide," we go behind the scenes to look at the traditional process:

• The Meat Blend: See how different cuts are trimmed and balanced for the perfect lean-to-fat ratio.

• Seasoning: The secret blends of spices that give gourmet sausages their signature kick.

• The Stuffing Process: A look at how the meat is piped into those casings (the ones I usually peel off!).

• Curing & Cooking: Understanding the role of temperature and preservation in making a safe, delicious product

Whether you're a fan of a big Sunday breakfast or you just like to know exactly what’s on your plate, this video breaks down the entire journey from the butcher's block to the grill. 

A Quick Note on Nitrates

As I mentioned, being mindful of processed foods is important. When buying premium sausages, looking for "nitrate-free" options or those using natural celery powder as a preservative can be a great way to enjoy the flavor with a bit more peace of mind.