Cooking sausage in a tube, also known as sausage casing or natural casing, is a popular method for preparing delicious and juicy sausages. This technique involves stuffing a mixture of meat, seasonings, and preservatives into a cylindrical casing, which is then sealed and cooked to perfection. In this article, we will explore the different methods for cooking sausage in a tube, including grilling, pan-frying, and oven-roasting. We will also discuss the benefits of using natural casings, the different types of sausage casings available, and provide some valuable tips for achieving perfectly grilled links.
Benefits of Using Natural Casings
Natural casings, also known as animal intestines, have been used for centuries to make sausages. These casings are derived from the small intestines of animals, typically pigs or sheep, and are cleaned and processed for use in sausage production. Natural casings offer several benefits over synthetic casings, including:
- Better flavor: Natural casings allow the sausage to breathe, which enables the flavors to develop and mature during the cooking process.
- Improved texture: The natural casing helps to retain the juices and fat within the sausage, resulting in a more tender and succulent texture.
- Traditional appearance: Natural casings give sausages their traditional, plump appearance, which is often associated with high-quality sausages.
Types of Sausage Casings
There are several types of sausage casings available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Some of the most common types of sausage casings include:
- Hog casings: These are the most commonly used natural casings and are derived from the small intestines of pigs. Hog casings are available in different diameters and are suitable for a wide range of sausage types.
- Sheep casings: These casings are derived from the small intestines of sheep and are typically used for smaller sausages, such as breakfast links or Italian sausage.
- Beef casings: These casings are derived from the small intestines of cattle and are often used for larger sausages, such as knockwurst or bratwurst.
Cooking Methods for Sausage in a Tube
There are several methods for cooking sausage in a tube, each with its own unique benefits and challenges. Some of the most common cooking methods include:
Grilling
Grilling is a popular method for cooking sausage in a tube, as it allows for a nice char to develop on the outside of the sausage while keeping the inside juicy and tender. To grill sausage in a tube, simply place the sausages on a preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
Tips for Grilling Sausage in a Tube
- Make sure the grill is clean: A clean grill is essential for preventing the sausages from sticking and developing a nice char.
- Use a medium-high heat: A medium-high heat will help to develop a nice char on the outside of the sausage while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Don’t press down on the sausages: Pressing down on the sausages can cause them to burst and lose their juices.
Pan-Frying
Pan-frying is another popular method for cooking sausage in a tube, as it allows for a nice crust to develop on the outside of the sausage while keeping the inside juicy and tender. To pan-fry sausage in a tube, simply place the sausages in a preheated pan with a small amount of oil and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
Tips for Pan-Frying Sausage in a Tube
- Use a large enough pan: A large enough pan is essential for preventing the sausages from steaming instead of browning.
- Use a small amount of oil: A small amount of oil is essential for preventing the sausages from becoming greasy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan can cause the sausages to steam instead of brown.
Oven-Roasting
Oven-roasting is a convenient method for cooking sausage in a tube, as it allows for a large number of sausages to be cooked at once. To oven-roast sausage in a tube, simply place the sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Tips for Oven-Roasting Sausage in a Tube
- Use a large enough baking sheet: A large enough baking sheet is essential for preventing the sausages from steaming instead of browning.
- Use parchment paper: Parchment paper is essential for preventing the sausages from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding the baking sheet can cause the sausages to steam instead of brown.
Conclusion
Cooking sausage in a tube is a simple and convenient method for preparing delicious and juicy sausages. By using natural casings and following the tips outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly grilled links every time. Whether you prefer to grill, pan-fry, or oven-roast your sausages, there is a method to suit every taste and preference. So next time you’re in the mood for sausages, why not give cooking sausage in a tube a try?
What is the best way to cook sausage in a tube for even grilling?
Cooking sausage in a tube, also known as a sausage casing, can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques, you can achieve perfectly grilled links. To cook sausage in a tube evenly, it’s essential to preheat your grill to the right temperature. Medium-high heat is ideal for grilling sausages, as it allows for a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside evenly. Make sure to oil the grates before grilling to prevent the sausages from sticking.
Once your grill is preheated, place the sausages on the grates, leaving some space between each link to allow for even cooking. Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the sausages are nicely browned and cooked through. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausages, which should reach 160°F (71°C) for pork sausages and 165°F (74°C) for chicken sausages.
How do I prevent sausages from bursting while grilling?
One of the most common issues when grilling sausages is bursting, which can be caused by high heat, uneven cooking, or poor quality sausages. To prevent sausages from bursting, make sure to cook them over medium-high heat, as high heat can cause the casings to rupture. You should also avoid pressing down on the sausages with your spatula, as this can cause the juices to be pushed out of the casing, leading to bursting.
Another way to prevent bursting is to cook the sausages at an angle, which allows the juices to flow out of the casing more easily. You can also use a sausage with a natural casing, which is more prone to bursting than synthetic casings. Finally, make sure to not overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the sausages to steam instead of sear, leading to bursting.
Can I cook sausage in a tube in the oven instead of grilling?
While grilling is a great way to cook sausage in a tube, you can also cook them in the oven for a delicious and easy meal. To cook sausages in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each link. Cook the sausages for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
Cooking sausages in the oven is a great way to cook them evenly, as the heat is distributed uniformly throughout the oven. You can also add some vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, to the baking sheet for a hearty and flavorful meal. Just make sure to check the internal temperature of the sausages to ensure they are cooked to a safe temperature.
How do I store cooked sausage in a tube?
Once you’ve cooked your sausage in a tube, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture. Cooked sausages can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store cooked sausages in the refrigerator, place them in a covered container or zip-top bag and keep them at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
If you plan to freeze the cooked sausages, make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer the frozen sausages to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them at 0°F (-18°C) or below. When you’re ready to eat the sausages, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Can I cook sausage in a tube from frozen?
If you’ve frozen your sausage in a tube, you can cook them straight from the freezer. However, it’s essential to cook them at a lower temperature to prevent the outside from burning before the inside is fully cooked. To cook frozen sausages, preheat your grill or oven to a lower temperature than you would for fresh sausages.
For grilling, cook the frozen sausages over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. For oven cooking, cook the frozen sausages at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are cooked through. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the sausages to ensure they are cooked to a safe temperature.
How do I know when sausage in a tube is cooked through?
It’s essential to cook sausage in a tube to a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illness. The internal temperature of the sausages should reach 160°F (71°C) for pork sausages and 165°F (74°C) for chicken sausages. You can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausages, especially when cooking them from frozen.
Another way to check if the sausages are cooked through is to look for visual cues. Cooked sausages should be nicely browned and firm to the touch. If you cut into a sausage, the juices should run clear, and the inside should be cooked through. If you’re unsure whether the sausages are cooked through, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and cook them for a few more minutes.
Can I cook sausage in a tube on a grill pan or skillet?
If you don’t have a grill, you can still cook sausage in a tube on a grill pan or skillet. To cook sausages on a grill pan or skillet, preheat the pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and cook the sausages for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
Cooking sausages on a grill pan or skillet is a great way to achieve a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside evenly. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the sausages to steam instead of sear. You can also add some aromatics, such as onions and bell peppers, to the pan for added flavor.