Lithuanian Sausage
Authentic Lithuanian Sausage Recipe | Ground Pork & Beef with Spices
Introduction
Lithuanian Sausage is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations in Lithuania. This savory sausage is made with a combination of coarsely ground pork and ground beef, seasoned with salt, pepper, allspice, garlic powder, and a touch of msg for added flavor. Whether enjoyed fresh, cooked in water, or pan-fried, this sausage is sure to be a hit at any meal.
History
Lithuanian Sausage has a long history in Lithuanian cuisine, dating back to ancient times. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish. This sausage is a staple at celebrations and gatherings, and is often enjoyed with traditional Lithuanian sides such as sauerkraut and potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 lb (1.81 kg) coarsely ground pork
- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp salt
- pepper
- 0.5 tbsp allspice
- 0.25 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp msg (optional)
- 0.5 cup water
How to prepare
- Mix the ingredients together and allow them to stand for several hours. Then, stuff the mixture into hog casings that have been rinsed well in cold water. This recipe can be enjoyed fresh, cooked in water, or pan-fried.
Variations
- For a spicier sausage, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also experiment with different seasonings such as paprika, thyme, or fennel seeds.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making Lithuanian Sausage, it is important to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed. Allowing the mixture to stand for several hours before stuffing it into casings will help the flavors to meld together. When cooking the sausage, be sure to cook it to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Lithuanian Sausage can be enjoyed on its own, or served with traditional Lithuanian sides such as sauerkraut, potatoes, and rye bread.
Cooking Techniques
Lithuanian Sausage can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, pan-frying, or baking. Cooking the sausage in water is a traditional method that results in a juicy and flavorful sausage.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a leaner sausage, you can use lean ground pork or turkey in place of the coarsely ground pork. You can also substitute ground chicken for the ground beef.
Make Ahead Tips
Lithuanian Sausage can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw the sausage in the refrigerator before cooking.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Lithuanian Sausage on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill. You can also slice the sausage and serve it on a bed of sauerkraut for a traditional presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Lithuanian Sausage pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and pickles. For a complete meal, serve the sausage with a side salad or soup.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Lithuanian Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pan-fry the sausage until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Lithuanian Sausage contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Lithuanian Sausage contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Lithuanian Sausage contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Lithuanian Sausage contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Lithuanian Sausage is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
Lithuanian Sausage contains pork and beef, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these meats.
Summary
Lithuanian Sausage is a high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. While it is high in fat, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Lithuanian Sausage is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh, cooked in water, or pan-fried, this traditional sausage is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Lithuanian sausage. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook and always had a treasure trove of recipes from her homeland of Lithuania.
One day, as I was helping my grandmother in the kitchen, she pulled out a faded, yellowed piece of paper from her recipe box. It was written in her beautiful cursive handwriting, detailing the ingredients and steps to make authentic Lithuanian sausage. I was intrigued and asked her where she had learned to make it.
My grandmother smiled and began to tell me the story of how she had acquired the recipe. She explained that when she was a young girl, her own grandmother had taught her how to make the sausage. It was a cherished family recipe that had been passed down through the generations.
As she shared the story with me, I could see the twinkle in her eye and the love she had for this special recipe. She described how her grandmother would wake up early on cold winter mornings to prepare the sausage, using only the finest cuts of meat and the perfect blend of spices.
My grandmother had watched and helped her grandmother make the sausage countless times, learning the process and techniques along the way. She had taken great care to memorize the recipe, committing it to heart so that she could carry on the tradition.
After her grandmother passed away, my grandmother had continued to make the Lithuanian sausage, honoring her memory with each batch she made. She had perfected the recipe over the years, making slight adjustments here and there to suit her own tastes.
As she spoke, I could sense her passion for cooking and her deep connection to her heritage. I was inspired by her dedication to preserving the traditions of our family and knew that I wanted to learn how to make the Lithuanian sausage myself.
With her guidance, I began to assist her in the kitchen, carefully measuring out the ingredients and following her instructions. I watched as she expertly mixed the meat and spices together, forming the sausage into perfect links.
As the sausage cooked on the stove, the aroma filled the kitchen, transporting me back to my grandmother's childhood in Lithuania. I could almost imagine her grandmother standing over the pot, stirring the sausage with love and care.
When the sausage was finally ready, my grandmother and I sat down to enjoy a meal together, savoring every bite of the delicious, flavorful dish. I could taste the history and tradition in each mouthful, feeling grateful to have learned such a special recipe from my grandmother.
From that day on, the Lithuanian sausage became a staple in our family, a dish that we would make together on special occasions and holidays. It was a way for me to connect with my heritage and honor the legacy of my grandmother and her grandmother before her.
As I grew older and became a grandmother myself, I continued to make the Lithuanian sausage, passing down the recipe to my own grandchildren. I shared with them the story of how I had learned to make it from my grandmother and the importance of preserving our family's culinary traditions.
The recipe for Lithuanian sausage has become more than just a dish to me – it is a link to my past, a connection to my roots, and a reminder of the love and care that goes into every meal we create. I am grateful for the lessons I learned from my grandmother and the memories we shared in the kitchen, making this special recipe together.
Categories
| Allspice Recipes | Garlic Powder Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Ground Pork Recipes | Lithuanian Meat Dishes | Lithuanian Recipes | Monosodium Glutamate Recipes |