Celebrating Sausages for National Sausage Month!
October brings National Sausage Month, a celebration of one of the worldβs most versatile and beloved foods. For chefs, food enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a good sausage, itβs a time to savour the rich heritage behind this timeless favourite. From ancient methods of meat preservation to modern-day recipes packed with bold flavours, sausages have evolved into a cornerstone of global cuisine. This month, weβre taking a closer look at the history, variety, and irresistible recipes that make sausages a staple in kitchens everywhere!
National Sausage Month: A Celebration of Sausages
The Origins of Sausages
Sausages have been around for thousands of years, with their origins tracing back to Ancient Greece and Rome. What began as a way to preserve meat has since transformed into an art form, where different cultures have put their unique spin on sausage-making. Historically, sausages were made by stuffing seasoned ground meat into natural casings (usually intestines), allowing the meat to be stored for longer periods.
Today, sausages come in countless varieties, each with its distinct flavour profile, ingredients, and cooking method. This is what National Sausage Month is all aboutβhonouring the popular tradition of sausage making while embracing the creativity that has made it a global favourite.
Why National Sausage Month Matters
For food professionals and enthusiasts alike, National Sausage Month isnβt just a celebration; itβs a reminder of the craftsmanship behind the perfect sausage. From butcher shops to restaurants, creating a high-quality sausage requires the right mix of ingredients, proper technique, andβof courseβthe best equipment. Sausages are a versatile food that can be grilled, pan-fried, baked, or even cured. And with the right seasoning, you can elevate a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
Different Types of Sausages
Sausages come in a wide variety of flavours and textures, depending on where theyβre made and the ingredients used. Letβs explore some of the most popular types of sausages that are sure to inspire you during National Sausage Month.
1. Chipolata
Originating from France, Chipolata sausages are small, thin sausages typically made from pork and seasoned with a variety of herbs such as sage and thyme. Their delicate flavour and quick cooking time make them ideal for breakfasts, barbecues, or as part of a mixed grill. The next time you want to serve up something flavourful yet light, consider using Chipolatas in your dish. Have a look at the chipolata casings we stock here at PFM!
2. Cumberland
Hailing from Northern England, Cumberland sausages are known for their unique spiral shape and coarse texture. Made from pork, they are heavily seasoned with pepper and herbs, which gives them a bold, hearty flavour. Cumberland sausages are perfect for dishes like casseroles, but they also shine when served with mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic British meal. Arthur Pipkins Gluten Free Cumberland Sausage Mix is a favourite here at PFM!
3. Bratwurst
A staple in German cuisine, Bratwurst sausages are made from a combination of pork, beef, or veal and seasoned with spices like nutmeg, caraway, and ginger. Often grilled or pan-fried, bratwursts are traditionally served with mustard, sauerkraut, and a side of crusty bread. Theyβre also a popular choice for barbecues and Oktoberfest celebrations.
4. Chorizo
Chorizo is a bold, spicy sausage that originated in Spain and has since spread around the world. Made from pork and seasoned with paprika, garlic, and chilli, chorizo can be enjoyed either cooked or cured. Its strong, smoky flavour makes it a standout ingredient in dishes like paella or soups, and it can even be enjoyed on its own as part of a charcuterie board. Leonards Gourmet Chorizo Style Sausage Mix is always a crowd pleaser!
5. Italian Sausage
Italian sausages are beloved for their versatility and robust flavour. Typically made with pork, these sausages come in both sweet (mild) and spicy varieties. Italian sausage is often seasoned with garlic, fennel, and various herbs, making it a perfect addition to pasta dishes, pizza, or grilled on its own. The spicy version adds an extra kick to any meal, making it a favourite among those who enjoy a little heat. Why not give the Leonards Gourmet Italian Style Sausage Mix a go!
Favourite Sausage Dishes
Sausages are incredibly versatile and can be the star of many classic dishes. Here are some fan-favourite sausage recipes that are easy to prepare and packed with flavour.
Toad in the Hole
A quintessentially British dish, Toad in the Hole consists of sausages baked in a Yorkshire pudding batter. Itβs a comfort food classic that pairs perfectly with onion gravy and vegetables. For the best results, we recommend using Leonards Sausage Mix from PFM Plus, which adds just the right blend of herbs and spices to your sausages, giving them that traditional English flavour.
Sausage and Mash
Simple yet satisfying, Sausage and Mash is a dish that never goes out of style. Creamy mashed potatoes topped with your favourite sausages and covered in a rich, savoury gravyβit doesnβt get more comforting than this. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. Whether you opt for mild Chipolatas or the peppery kick of Cumberland sausages, itβs a meal that pleases every palate.
Sausage Casserole
A Sausage Casserole is the ultimate one-pot wonder, perfect for chilly autumn evenings. Combine your favourite sausages, tomatoes, beans, and spices in a slow cooker, and let the flavours meld together into a hearty and filling dish. To add that extra layer of flavour, try using the Lincolnshire Sausage Mix from PFM Plus, available online. This seasoning blend is perfect for giving your sausages that authentic taste and texture.
Leonards Sausage Mix October Deal
This October, PFM Plus is offering an exclusive Leonards Sausage Mix Deal in celebration of National Sausage Month! These sausage mixes are a must-have for anyone looking to create high-quality sausages for their customers, in their food business. Known for its balanced seasoning and versatility, Leonards Sausage Mix is ideal for a variety of meats, whether youβre making pork, beef, or chicken sausages.
The October deal is a great opportunity to stock up on this premium mix and experiment with different sausage recipes. The blend is designed to bring out the natural flavours of the meat, while adding just the right amount of spice and herb to create a well-rounded taste. Be sure to take advantage of this offer while it lasts and get ready to make the best sausages your kitchen has ever seen.
Tips for Perfect Sausages
To make the most out of your sausage-making experience this National Sausage Month, follow these expert tips for achieving the perfect sausage, every time.
1. Use the Right Equipment
High-quality sausages start with the right tools. Whether youβre making sausages at home or in a commercial kitchen, investing in a good sausage filler is essential. At PFM Plus, we offer a range of sausage fillers designed to help you create perfectly packed sausages without any hassle. A reliable sausage filler ensures even distribution of meat and minimizes air pockets, resulting in juicy, well-formed sausages every time.
2. Experiment with Seasoning
One of the best parts of sausage making is experimenting with different flavours. PFM Plus has a wide selection of sausage seasonings, from traditional blends like sage and onion to more adventurous options like BBQ or spicy chilli. Donβt be afraid to mix and match different seasonings to create a sausage that suits your taste preferences.
3. Donβt Overfill the Casings
When stuffing your sausages, itβs important to leave some room in the casings. Overfilling can cause the sausages to burst during cooking, leading to a dry and uneven product. By leaving a little space, your sausages can expand properly and maintain a juicy, tender texture.
4. Chill Before Cooking
Let your sausages rest in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This allows the flavours to develop and helps the sausages maintain their shape when cooked. Chilling your sausages also improves their texture, making them easier to handle during the cooking process.
Conclusion
National Sausage Month is the perfect time to embrace the art of sausage making. Whether youβre a seasoned professional or just starting your journey into sausage crafting, here at PFM Plus, we have everything you need to make your sausages the star of the show. From Leonards Sausage Mix to state-of-the-art sausage fillers, weβve got the tools and products that will take your sausage-making game to the next level.
Make the most of this month by exploring new recipes, experimenting with flavours, andβmost importantlyβcelebrating the rich, savoury goodness that only sausages can bring. Plus, take advantage of our October deal on Leonards Sausage Mix. Your next sausage creation awaits!
