Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s almost time to break out the barbecue grill and start cooking up some delicious meals for family and friends. One of the most popular items to cook on the grill is sausages, but not everyone knows the best way to do it. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to barbecue sausages like a pro.
First things first, make sure you have a good quality sausage. If you’re not sure where to find the best sausages, head to your local butcher shop. They will have a wide variety of sausages to choose from, including pork, beef, chicken, and even vegetarian options. Don’t be afraid to ask the butcher for their recommendation, they know their meat best!
Next, it’s time to prepare the sausages for cooking. You’ll want to prick them with a fork a few times to prevent them from exploding on the grill. This also helps the sausages cook evenly. You can also brush them with a little bit of oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
When it comes to cooking the sausages, the key is to use indirect heat. This means that you want to avoid placing them directly over the flame. Instead, place them on the cool side of the grill and close the lid. This will allow the sausages to cook through without burning on the outside.
Depending on the size of the sausages, they should take anywhere from 10-20 minutes to cook. You’ll want to turn them occasionally to ensure that they cook evenly on all sides. To test if they’re done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the sausage. The internal temperature should be at least 160°F for pork and 165°F for chicken.
Once the sausages are cooked to perfection, it’s time to enjoy them! You can serve them on a bun with your favourite toppings, or simply enjoy them on their own. And if you’re looking for a side dish to serve with your sausages, why not try grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad?
In conclusion, the key to barbecue sausages is to start with a high-quality sausage and cook them using indirect heat. If you’re not sure where to find the best sausages, head to your local BBQ shop. They will have everything you need to make your next barbecue a success. So fire up the grill, invite your friends and family over, and enjoy some delicious sausages this summer!
While barbecuing sausages is a relatively simple process, there are a few tips and tricks that can help take your sausages to the next level. Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t overcook your sausages. While it’s important to make sure that your sausages are cooked through, you don’t want to overcook them. This can make them dry and tough. As mentioned earlier, a meat thermometer can be a helpful tool to ensure that your sausages are cooked to the proper temperature. However, keep in mind that the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees even after you take them off the grill, so it’s best to remove them just before they reach the desired temperature.
- Experiment with different flavours. While classic pork and beef sausages are always delicious, don’t be afraid to try out different flavours and types of sausages. For example, spicy Italian sausages can add some heat to your barbecue, while chicken and apple sausages offer a sweet and savoury flavour.
- Use a smoke box for extra flavour. If you want to take your sausages to the next level, consider using a smoke box to infuse them with additional flavour. Simply fill the box with wood chips (such as hickory or mesquite) and place it on the grill. The smoke will infuse the sausages with a delicious smoky flavour. Get the right one at your local BBQ shop!
- Let your sausages rest before serving. Just like with any meat, it’s important to let your sausages rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the sausage, resulting in a more flavorful and moist end product.
- Serve with a variety of condiments. While ketchup and mustard are classic condiments for sausages, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Consider offering a variety of condiments such as barbecue sauce, hot sauce, sauerkraut, relish, or even a homemade chimichurri sauce.
In addition to these tips, it’s also important to remember basic grill safety practices. Always use proper grilling tools (such as tongs and a meat thermometer) and keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case. And, of course, make sure to clean your grill after use to keep it in good working condition.
In conclusion, barbecuing sausages is a delicious and easy way to feed a crowd. By starting with a high-quality sausage, cooking with indirect heat, and experimenting with different flavours and toppings, you can create a mouth-watering meal that is sure to impress. So head to your local BBQ shop, stock up on your favourite sausages, and get grilling!