Sausages are a staple for any outdoor barbecue. There's nothing quite like biting into a perfectly grilled smoked sausage, with its seared, browned exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. However, achieving that perfect sausage can be a challenge. Overcooking can result in dry and flavorless sausages, while cooking over high heat can cause flare-ups and burns. To help you master the art of grilling sausages, we've compiled some pro tips and delicious recipes for you to try.
Tips for Grilling Sausages
- Use tongs, not forks: Avoid poking the casing and losing the flavorful juices.
- Start with high heat: Grill the sausages for a minute or two over high heat to achieve a nice brown color.
- Slow cook over medium heat: Reduce the flame to medium or move the sausages to an unused burner for indirect heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed.
- Check the internal temperature: Wait until the inside temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked sausages.
- Remove from the grill and serve: Once the sausages are cooked, remove them from the grill and serve.
Poach and Grill Method
Another popular method for grilling sausages is the poach and grill technique. This method involves partially poaching the sausages with additional flavorings before finishing them on the grill.
- Create a poaching liquid: In a large pot, combine water and beer (preferably in equal measure) to create a flavorful poaching liquid.
- Poach the sausages: Bring the liquid to a boil and add the sausages. Poach until the sausage skin tightens and the inside temperature reaches around 160°F (71°C).
- Transfer to the grill: Transfer the poached sausages to a hot grill over medium-low fire.
- Grill until browned: Grill the sausages until they achieve a nice brown color.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the sausages are browned, they are ready to be served.
Delicious Grilled Sausage Recipes
Grilled sausages can be enjoyed on their own, but they can also be paired with delicious side dishes or incorporated into unique recipes. Here are a few recipes to inspire you:
Mixed Grill with Balsamic Mustard Vegetables
In a large bowl, create a marinade by mixing oil, vinegar, shallot, Dijon mustard, pepper, and salt. Add vegetables such as corn, zucchini, squash, mushroom, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions to the marinade and let them stand for an hour. Grill the sausages until cooked, then transfer them to a cutting board. Grill the marinated vegetables until tender and lightly charred. Serve the grilled sausages alongside the vegetables, with the reserved marinade on the side or drizzled over the platter.
Raspberry BBQ Sausage Bites
In a food processor, puree raspberries, maple syrup, vinegar, mustard, and paprika. Cook the puree over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens and becomes shiny. Slice the grilled sausages and coat them with the raspberry BBQ sauce. Skewer the sausage bites with toothpicks for a sweet, savory, and smoky treat.
Grilled Cajun Jambalaya
In a medium saucepan, toast rice with a teaspoon of oil for 2 minutes. Add water, cover, and cook for 45 minutes. Skewer sausage, bell peppers, onions, okra, shrimp, and tomato halves over medium-high heat on the grill. Season with Cajun seasoning, celery, and pepper. Grill until the shrimp turns opaque and the veggies turn lightly charred. Mix chopped tomatoes with Cajun seasoning, celery seed, and pepper. Serve the rice topped with the grilled sausage, shrimp, and veggies for a flavorful Cajun-inspired dish.
Grilled smoked sausage recipes are a favorite for barbecues and outdoor gatherings. By following these tips and trying out different recipes, you can elevate your grilling game and impress your friends and family. So, fire up the barbecue, grab your tongs, and enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly grilled sausages!
Can I use other types of sausages for these recipes?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, whether it's smoked, spicy, or flavored with different herbs and spices. The recipes provided can be easily adapted to suit your preferences.
Can I grill sausages on a gas or charcoal grill?
Yes, you can grill sausages on both gas and charcoal grills. The cooking times and techniques may vary slightly depending on the type of grill you're using, but the overall results will be delicious either way.
Can I make these recipes vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, you can make these recipes vegetarian-friendly by substituting the sausages with vegetarian or plant-based alternatives. Grilling vegetables and pairing them with flavorful marinades or sauces will still result in a delicious and satisfying meal.
Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
While grilling sausages is best done fresh, you can prepare the marinades and side dishes ahead of time to save on prep work. Simply marinate the vegetables or prepare the sauces in advance, then grill the sausages and vegetables when you're ready to serve.
Can I serve these recipes as a main course?
Absolutely! These recipes can be enjoyed as a main course, especially when paired with a side dish or a salad. The grilled sausages and flavorful accompaniments provide a satisfying and delicious meal that can be enjoyed by everyone.
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