Essential Everyday · 69 g
Essential Everyday Italian Sausage
What it is
This is a raw pork sausage seasoned with Italian herbs and spices. It is typically sold in links or as bulk ground meat. The sausage is made with pork and a blend of seasonings that give it a distinct Italian flavor profile. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
How people cook with it
Italian sausage is a popular choice for adding robust flavor to many meals. It can be cooked in numerous ways and pairs well with a wide range of ingredients.
- Added to pasta sauces
- Cooked in casseroles
- Grilled for sandwiches
- Used in stuffed peppers
To cook, remove the sausage from its packaging. If in casings, you can either remove the casings and crumble the meat or cook the links whole. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon if you've removed the casings. Ensure the sausage is cooked through, with no pink remaining. It can also be added to simmering sauces or baked in dishes. The rendered fat adds flavor to whatever it's cooked with.
How it differs from similar foods
Italian sausage typically has a more complex flavor profile than plain pork sausage due to the addition of fennel, garlic, and other herbs. It can be found in mild or hot varieties, with the hot version containing red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
How to keep the rest
Refrigerate any unused portion of the sausage in its original packaging or an airtight container. It should be used within a few days of opening the package. For longer storage, you can freeze the sausage.