Fernando Wilcox

Summer sausage presents a delightful indulgence during the holiday season, characterized by its convenience, extended shelf life, and delectable flavor profile. This particular variety of sausage undergoes both curing and smoking processes, effectively preserving the meat and impeding the growth of bacteria. This leads to a common query: ‘Is it necessary to cook summer sausage?’ … Read more

If the idea of crafting your own salami has crossed your mind, you’ve likely delved into various methods for producing this savory meat.  But have you ever considered the intriguing prospect of making salami without the use of a starter culture? This article will guide you through the essential steps of salami-making, from selecting the … Read more

Are you a lover of cured meats? If so, you’ve likely experienced both summer sausage and salami. These two sausages share similarities in taste, appearance, and texture, posing a challenge in distinguishing between them. Nevertheless, there are distinctive characteristics that distinguish one from the other. In this article, we’ll delve into the disparities between summer … Read more

If you have a penchant for sandwiches and pizzas, chances are you’re well-acquainted with the delightful duo of pepperoni and salami. These two deli meats play a starring role in an array of quick breakfasts and snack recipes. While at first glance they might appear similar, a deeper dive reveals distinct differences in both taste … Read more

Salami is a beloved food item enjoyed by many, especially in Europe and the U.S., with a wide variety of types to choose from.  However, despite its popularity, there are concerns about its safety and whether it is raw or not. This uncertainty can deter some people from consuming salami altogether.  If you’re curious about … Read more

If you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered about the ingredients in the food you eat. And when it comes to sausage, specifically fresh sausage, the question arises: does it contain nitrates? In this article, we’re going to dive deep into the topic of nitrates in fresh sausage and provide you with all the information you … Read more

Ever experienced the unpleasant smell of rotten eggs when opening a pack of sausage links? There are a few reasons why your sausage may emit a rotten egg smell. The most obvious reason is that the pork has gone bad. Another reason could be the vacuum packaging. However, this smell is usually not a cause … Read more

Hey there! Have you ever heard of blood sausage?  In North America, It’s not a very common food and it may not be a part of your typical family meals or recipes. But lately, more and more people are getting curious about this traditional dish and discovering just how tasty and nutritious it can be … Read more

If you’re a sausage lover, crafting your own sausage can be a rewarding and satisfying experience. However, sometimes, things don’t go as planned, and you end up with dry and crumbly sausage that’s not enjoyable to eat. In such cases, it’s essential to know how to moisten dry sausage and prevent it from happening again. … Read more

If you’re a fan of pizza, you know that pepperoni is an essential ingredient that adds flavor to the dish.  However, have you ever wondered why it’s so greasy?  In this post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the greasiness of pepperoni and provide you with tips to make your pepperoni less oily. What Makes Pepperoni … Read more

Sausage balls are a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from parties to game nights.  But, despite their popularity, making sausage balls can be challenging, especially when they turn out dry and crumbly.  So, what causes this issue?  In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at how to fix it and other common … Read more

Are you looking for an easy yet delicious way to enjoy venison, pork, or beef on a lazy Saturday afternoon in the backyard? Consider making snack sticks in a smoker! Whether you’re serving them as a treat for the kids or as a savory addition to a birthday dinner, smoked snack sticks are a guaranteed … Read more

Cold smoked sausages are an excellent way to infuse a robust smoky flavor while maintaining the original texture. The remarkable benefit? This process allows you to store sausages for multiple days or even weeks, so you can enjoy the flavor at your convenience. However, be aware that cold smoking sausages demands additional precautions. Given the potential for … Read more

If you’re a fan of breakfast sausages, you’ve probably heard of Jimmy Dean. Known for their delicious sausages and breakfast sandwiches, Jimmy Dean has become a household name in America.  But have you ever wondered where their sausages are made? Let’s take a closer look at the history of the company and its current production … Read more

Boudin holds a special place in the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole cuisine. This spicy and savory snack is a staple and enjoyed in numerous delicious ways.  Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of boudin or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you learn how to eat boudin like a true Cajun … Read more

Smoking sausages is a beloved pastime for many, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something about the smoky, savory flavor that makes it a perfect weekend activity.  But with so many types of sausages out there, it can be tough to know which ones will taste best when smoked.  In this article, we’ll break … Read more

Sausages are a beloved food in many households because of their delicious taste and the many ways you can cook and enjoy them. But have you ever opened up a package of sausages and noticed that the casing feels slimy? There are several reasons why a sausage casing might be slimy, and not all of … Read more

Italian salami, a popular cured sausage in the culinary world, has a rich history that dates back millennia.  Its unique taste and appearance, including the distinctive white mold that covers its exterior, have made it a favorite among food enthusiasts. The white mold is not just a cosmetic feature; it also plays a crucial role … Read more

Boudin balls are a delicious and convenient snack that you can make ahead of time and store in your freezer. Whether you bought them at the store or made them at home, cooking frozen boudin balls is a breeze.  In this article, we’ll show you how to cook frozen boudin balls to perfection, so you … Read more

If you’re someone who absolutely adores sausages, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of crafting your very own. It’s not just a culinary adventure but also incredibly fulfilling. But here’s the thing: to get those sausages just right, you need to master the art of tying and cutting sausage links. It might sound a tad … Read more

Are you tired of dry, crumbly sausages that are difficult to slice and lacking in flavor? The secret to creating perfectly juicy and delicious sausages is using a sausage binder.  Binders are essential ingredients that help to improve the texture, moisture, and overall quality of sausages.  In this article, we will explore the various sausage … Read more

Sausages are one of the most versatile and delicious foods out there! Whether you prefer them grilled, fried, or baked, they can be a great addition to any meal. However, cutting them can be quite challenging, and if you’re not careful, you might end up with a mess on your hands.  But don’t worry, we’ve … Read more

Hey, do you like having sausages for breakfast or as a snack? Sausage casings do more than just add flavor and shape, they actually help preserve the meat. But here’s something to think about – can your furry buddy safely eat sausage casings? Well, it’s not a simple yes or no. It depends on stuff … Read more

Cooking chicken sausage may seem like a simple task, but making sure it is cooked thoroughly and safely can be a challenge. It is crucial to ensure that the sausage is fully cooked to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses. So, how can you tell if chicken sausage is cooked?  This article will provide you … Read more

If you’re a fan of cured meats, you’ve probably heard of trail bologna and summer sausage.  These two types of sausages have similarities but also distinct differences that set them apart from each other.  In this article, we’ll explore the differences between trail bologna and summer sausage, including their history, ingredients, flavor profiles, and uses. … Read more

Deer sausage isn’t just delectable; it’s also a top pick for those who love sausage and prioritize health. Whether you acquire it from a nearby deli, your local supermarket, or craft it from scratch in your own kitchen, understanding the proper cooking techniques is crucial. One common question that comes up is, “How long do … Read more

Hickory Farms is a popular gift box company that offers a variety of options for different occasions. From cheese to meats, dressings to wines, they have something for everyone.  However, if you’ve purchased a gift box, you might wonder whether or not it needs to be refrigerated. The answer is not a simple yes or … Read more

If you’re a fan of spicy, smoky sausages, chances are you’ve heard of andouille sausage. This Louisiana specialty has gained popularity across the United States and is a staple ingredient in many Southern dishes, from gumbo to jambalaya. But when it comes to cooking andouille sausage, many people are unsure whether it’s pre-cooked or not.  … Read more

When it comes to sausages, salami and chorizo are two of the most popular types that come to mind. Both are delicious and versatile in their own right, but what sets them apart?  In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the similarities and differences between chorizo and salami. Chorizo: The Iconic Pork Sausage … Read more

When you’re talking about pizza toppings and Italian – style dishes, you can’t go wrong with pepperoni and sausage – they’re like the kings of meat toppings! But even though they might seem pretty similar, there are actually some significant distinctions between these two delicious options. You know, pepperoni stands out with its unique reddish … Read more

If you’re a big fan of sausages, you probably already understand how important it is to get that perfect balance of acidity in spice and the meat blend to make your sausages taste amazing and last longer. But guess what? There’s a nifty trick you might not know about: encapsulated citric acid, or ECA. It’s … Read more

If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with various vegetarian recipes or perhaps you’re involved in sausage-making, you might be curious about the availability of vegetarian sausage casings. The good news is that you not only have vegetarian options but there are also vegan casings available. These casings are crafted from plant-based and other non-animal ingredients, … Read more

Smoked sausage is a delicious addition to any meal, thanks to its rich, smoky flavor. This distinct taste is achieved through the process of burning wood chips during smoking, which infuses the meat with its signature aroma. While making smoked sausage is relatively easy and quick, choosing the right woods is crucial to achieving the … Read more

Summer sausage is a beloved dried meat product that is often enjoyed during the holiday season, despite its name suggesting otherwise. Originating in Wisconsin, summer sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, many people are curious about the ingredients that go into making this delectable treat. The … Read more