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 got you covered! In this article, we’ll share some expert tips and tricks to make sure your sausages stay intact and delicious. So, let’s get started!
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How to Successfully Cut Sausage Links Without Them Breaking Apart
I know that the process of making sausage links can significantly impact the overall quality of your sausages. In this section, I’ll be sharing some tips and tricks on how to cut sausage links successfully, without compromising the texture and flavor of your sausages.
Preparing Sausage Links for Cutting
Once you’ve finished making your sausage links, place them in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours.
This will allow the meat to dry out, which is vital for the texture of the sausages when cooking. You can place the sausage links on a baking sheet in the refrigerator, flipping them over after a few hours to ensure they dry out evenly.
If you have enough space in your refrigerator, hanging them can speed up the drying process.
Cutting Sausage Links
Now, let’s get to the main event: cutting your sausage links without them falling apart.
Use the Right Tool: When it comes to cutting sausage links, you’ll want to use a sharp kitchen knife or a pair of sharp scissors.
Cut at an Angle: When cutting sausage links, it’s best to cut them at an angle, rather than straight across. This will help prevent the casing from splitting open and ensure that the sausages remain intact.
Cut Before Cooking: While it’s possible to cut sausage links after they’re cooked, it’s much easier to cut them before cooking. Once cooked, the sausages become more delicate, making it challenging to cut them without them falling apart.
>>Read: Black spot on salami – Safe to eat?
Tips on How to Keep Your Sausages Intact When Cutting
Place Your Sausages in the Freezer Before Cooking
This is a great way to prevent them from falling apart as the cold temperature firms up the sausage, making it less likely to crumble when sliced.
Just keep them in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes, and you’ll also find it easier to remove the casings.
Avoid Cutting the Meat
When it’s time to cut the sausage casing, remember to avoid cutting the meat as well.
Make a long cut along the entire length of the sausage and use your fingers to gently peel off the casing. By doing this, you’ll avoid slicing the meat and keep it intact.
Remove the Casing After Cooking
We suggest removing the sausage casings after cooking or leaving them on, depending on personal preference. You can leave the casings on if you prefer as they are edible.
However, if you choose to remove the casing before cooking, the sausage may lose its shape and eventually fall apart during cooking.
Use a Sausage Cutter
If you want to cut sausage quickly and efficiently, using a sausage cutter can be a great option. A sausage cutter is a specialized tool designed to cut sausage without squishing it or causing it to fall apart.
It typically consists of a sharp, curved blade mounted on a handle that allows you to easily slice through the sausage with a single motion.
Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, investing in a high-quality sausage cutter can be a worthwhile investment that will pay off in the long run.
So why not give it a try and see how much easier cutting sausage can be?
Avoid High Heat When Grilling
When grilling sausages, avoid high heat as this can cause them to fall apart. Instead, cook them on low or medium heat and wait for them to sizzle in the frying pan.
The high amount of water in the sausage mixture can cause the casing to burst when exposed to heat, leading to the sausage falling apart.
Another useful tip is to boil the sausages before grilling them. This will firm up the sausage and reduce the chances of the casing bursting.
Baking Them in the Oven
Finally, if you want to ensure that your sausages don’t fall apart, baking them in the oven is an excellent option. The heat in the oven is evenly distributed, cooking the sausages uniformly.
Preheat your oven to moderate heat and bake the sausages for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re fully cooked. This will result in sausages that are tender and juicy, without the risk of them falling apart.
>>View more: What Can I Use as a Sausage Binder?
FAQs
Can I use a serrated knife to cut sausage?
Yes, a serrated knife can be used to cut sausage. Just make sure it’s sharp, so it cuts through the casing without crushing the meat.
Can I cut sausage with a meat slicer?
Yes, a meat slicer can be used to cut sausage. Just make sure the sausage is chilled and firm before slicing.
How do I prevent the sausage from sticking to the knife?
To prevent the sausage from sticking to the knife, you can dip the knife in cold water before cutting. The water will create a thin film between the knife and the sausage, making it easier to cut.
Conclusion
In summary, cutting sausage without it falling apart can be achieved by using the right tools, techniques, and cooking methods. Remember to chill the sausage first, use a sawing motion, cut against the grain, and cut the sausage at an angle.
Additionally, cooking sausage over low to medium heat and letting it rest before slicing can also help prevent it from falling apart.
By following these tips, you can enjoy perfectly sliced sausage every time.
Fernando is the creator and writer behind the food blog Eating with your Hands. Living and working in cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Berlin, and being married to a Canadian foodie, has given Fernando a passion and interest in food and inspired him to run EWYH.