What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice just starting out, knowing how to grill raw sausage properly is key to achieving juicy, flavorful results.
- Scoring the sausage, or making small cuts along the length of the casing, helps fat to render more evenly and prevents the sausage from bursting.
- One of the hallmarks of a truly delicious grilled sausage is a beautiful, crispy char.
Grilling raw sausage is a quintessential summer activity, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for backyard gatherings and casual weeknight dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice just starting out, knowing how to grill raw sausage properly is key to achieving juicy, flavorful results. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to elevate your sausage grilling game, ensuring every bite is a burst of smoky goodness.
Choosing the Right Sausage
The first step to grilling the perfect sausage is selecting the right type. The world of sausage is vast and diverse, offering a plethora of flavors and textures to choose from. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
- Flavor Profile: Do you prefer spicy chorizo, smoky andouille, or mild Italian sausage? Choose a sausage that complements your desired taste.
- Meat Type: Sausage can be made from various meats, including pork, beef, chicken, and lamb. Select a meat type that aligns with your dietary preferences and the overall flavor profile you’re aiming for.
- Casings: Sausage casings can be natural or artificial. Natural casings, made from animal intestines, provide a snap and a slightly chewy texture. Artificial casings, typically made from collagen or cellulose, offer a smoother texture.
Preparing the Sausage
Once you’ve selected your sausage, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and preventing the sausage from sticking to the grill grates.
- Remove Sausage from Refrigerated Packaging: Allow the sausage to come to room temperature before grilling. This helps the sausage cook more evenly.
- Pat Dry: Gently pat the sausage dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will prevent steam from forming during cooking, which can lead to soggy sausage.
- Optional: Score the Sausage: Scoring the sausage, or making small cuts along the length of the casing, helps fat to render more evenly and prevents the sausage from bursting.
Preheating the Grill
Preheating your grill to the correct temperature is essential for achieving the desired level of char and doneness.
- Gas Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F.
- Charcoal Grill: Light the charcoal and allow it to burn until the coals are covered in ash and glowing orange. This indicates that the grill is ready for cooking.
Grilling the Sausage
Now comes the fun part: grilling the sausage! Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Place the Sausage on the Grill: Arrange the sausage on the preheated grill grates, ensuring ample space between each link.
- Cook for 5-7 Minutes per Side: Cook the sausage for 5-7 minutes per side, turning once to ensure even cooking.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausage. The sausage is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Optional: Glaze or Sauce: For added flavor, glaze the sausage with your favorite barbecue sauce or honey mustard during the last few minutes of cooking.
The Art of Achieving a Perfect Char
One of the hallmarks of a truly delicious grilled sausage is a beautiful, crispy char. Here’s how to achieve that coveted char:
- High Heat: Grilling over high heat promotes caramelization and the formation of that delightful crust.
- Direct Heat: Place the sausage directly over the heat source for maximum char development.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure adequate space between the sausage links to allow for proper airflow and even charring.
Resting and Serving
After grilling, let the sausage rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sausage.
- Resting Time: Allow the sausage to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the grilled sausage with your favorite sides, such as potato salad, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables.
The Perfect Sausage Grill-Off: A Farewell to the Ordinary
As you’ve mastered the art of grilling raw sausage, it’s time to elevate your culinary game further. Consider hosting a sausage grill-off, inviting friends and family to showcase their grilling prowess.
- Themed Categories: Introduce themed categories, like “Spicy Sausage Showdown” or “Classic Sausage Classics.”
- Tasting Panels: Organize tasting panels where participants can judge the sausage based on flavor, texture, and presentation.
- Awards and Prizes: Award prizes for the “Best Overall Sausage,” “Most Creative Sausage,” and “Best Char.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grill frozen sausage?
A: It’s not recommended to grill frozen sausage directly. Frozen sausage will take longer to cook and may not cook evenly. Defrost the sausage in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a bowl of cold water for 30-60 minutes before grilling.
Q: How do I know if my sausage is cooked through?
A: The most reliable way to determine if your sausage is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. You can also check for doneness by pressing on the sausage. If it feels firm and springy, it’s cooked through.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled sausage?
A: Grilled sausage pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, grilled vegetables, and corn on the cob.
Q: How long can I store leftover grilled sausage?
A: Leftover grilled sausage can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, place the sausage in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
Q: Can I grill sausage on a gas grill?
A: Yes, you can grill sausage on a gas grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F, and follow the grilling instructions provided in this guide.
