How to Make Breakfast Sausage from Deer Meat
Deer meat is a lean and flavorful alternative to traditional pork or beef, and it can be a delightful addition to your breakfast table. If you’re looking to experiment with unique ingredients, making breakfast sausage from deer meat is a fantastic way to do so. This article will guide you through the process of creating delicious deer breakfast sausage, from sourcing the meat to seasoning and cooking it to perfection.
Step 1: Sourcing the Deer Meat
The first step in making deer breakfast sausage is to source high-quality deer meat. You can purchase deer meat from a local butcher, specialty meat market, or even hunt your own deer. Ensure that the meat is fresh and comes from a healthy animal. If you’re sourcing the meat from a store, look for deer meat that is labeled as “venison” or “deer.”
Step 2: Preparing the Meat
Once you have the deer meat, it’s time to prepare it for sausage making. Begin by trimming any excess fat and connective tissue from the meat. This will help ensure that the sausage is tender and flavorful. Next, chop the meat into small, uniform pieces, typically around 1/4 inch in size.
Step 3: Seasoning the Meat
The key to delicious deer breakfast sausage is in the seasoning. You can use a pre-made deer sausage spice blend or create your own custom blend. Common ingredients in deer sausage include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and fennel seeds. Mix the spices together in a bowl and then sprinkle them over the chopped deer meat. Use your hands to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the meat.
Step 4: Mixing the Meat and Binding the Sausage
To make the sausage, you’ll need to mix the seasoned meat with a binder. The most common binder is pork or beef casing, but you can also use cold water, vodka, or a mixture of both. Pour the binder over the seasoned meat and mix it thoroughly until the meat is well-coated and begins to form a paste.
Step 5: Stuffing the Sausage
Now that the meat is well-mixed, it’s time to stuff it into sausage casings. You can purchase natural hog casings from a specialty meat supply store or use synthetic casings. If you’re using natural casings, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes before using. Fill the casings with the meat mixture using a sausage stuffer or a plastic bag with a corner cut off. Once the casings are filled, tie them off at the ends and cut off any excess casing.
Step 6: Cooking the Sausage
To cook the deer breakfast sausage, you can either grill it, fry it, or bake it. Preheat your grill or frying pan to medium-high heat. If you’re grilling the sausage, cook it for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s browned and cooked through. For frying, cook the sausage in a skillet with a small amount of oil until it’s golden brown and crispy. Baking is another option; simply place the sausage on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Step 7: Serving and Enjoying
Once the deer breakfast sausage is cooked, serve it with your favorite breakfast sides, such as pancakes, eggs, or hash browns. The rich flavor of deer meat will add a unique twist to your morning meal, and you’ll be proud of the delicious homemade sausage you’ve created.
In conclusion, making breakfast sausage from deer meat is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to enjoy the unique taste of venison in a familiar format. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying breakfast that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
