How to Make Breakfast Sausage Out of Venison
Breakfast sausage is a delightful way to start the day, and if you’re a fan of hunting, using venison to make your own breakfast sausage can be both a sustainable and delicious option. Whether you’ve hunted deer or purchased venison from a reputable source, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make breakfast sausage out of venison.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need the following:
– Venison meat (ground or finely chopped)
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Paprika
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– Cinnamon (optional, for a sweet and smoky flavor)
– Brown sugar (optional, for a sweet and smoky flavor)
– Water or beef broth
– Casings (optional, for sausage links)
2. Prepare the Venison Meat
If you have fresh venison, ensure it is properly cleaned and chilled. Trim any excess fat and connective tissue. You can either finely chop the meat or grind it using a meat grinder. For a more authentic breakfast sausage flavor, consider using a mix of ground and finely chopped meat.
3. Season the Venison Meat
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground or chopped venison with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
4. Add Water or Beef Broth
Add water or beef broth to the seasoned venison meat. This will help bind the mixture together and add moisture. Start with a small amount, such as 1/4 cup, and adjust as needed.
5. Optional: Stuff the Sausage
If you want to make sausage links, prepare your casings by soaking them in warm water for about 30 minutes. Fill the casings with the seasoned venison mixture using a sausage stuffer or by hand. Once the casings are filled, twist the ends to create links.
6. Cook the Breakfast Sausage
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat. If you’re cooking the sausage links, place them in the oven or skillet and cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you’re cooking the sausage patties, cook them in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once your breakfast sausage is cooked, serve it with your favorite breakfast items like eggs, toast, and hash browns. Enjoy the delicious taste of venison in a familiar and comforting dish.
Making breakfast sausage out of venison is a rewarding and satisfying way to put your hunt to good use. By following this simple guide, you can enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast sausage that’s as unique as your own hunting experiences.
