Knockwurst is a type of German sausage known for its distinct smoky, savory flavor Boar’s Head takes this iconic sausage to new heights with their premium uncured beef knockwurst Made with quality beef and a special blend of spices, Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst offers an unforgettable culinary experience.
However, to truly savor the delicious taste, it’s important to know the proper techniques for cooking this exceptional sausage In this detailed guide, we will provide tips, tricks and step-by-step instructions to help you cook Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst to absolute perfection
Before we dive into the cooking process let’s take a moment to better understand what makes Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst so special.
- Originates from German culinary tradition, bringing Old World flair and craftsmanship
- Uses premium cuts of beef for robust, savory flavor
- Spiced with a unique blend that includes garlic, mustard seed and other natural seasonings
- Uncured, meaning no artificial preservatives or nitrates
- Plump and juicy with a distinctive smoked taste
- Versatile to be enjoyed in various dishes from sandwiches to soups
With quality ingredients and artisanal excellence, Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst delivers an exceptional sausage experience. Now let’s uncover the best practices for cooking this mouthwatering sausage.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Follow these simple steps to cook Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst to smoky, savory perfection.
1. Remove from Packaging and Pat Dry
- Take the sausages out of the packaging.
- Gently pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve nice browning when cooked.
2. Choose Your Preferred Cooking Method
You can cook knockwurst in various ways based on your cooking equipment and preferences:
- Grilling: Provides nice charring and smoky flavor.
- Pan-frying: Allows you to brown the sausages evenly.
- Poaching: Gently cooks in hot liquid to keep moist.
- Baking: Useful for cooking larger batches in the oven.
3. Prepare for Cooking
- Grilling: Preheat grill to medium high heat. Lightly oil grates if needed.
- Pan-frying: Heat skillet to medium high heat. Add small amount of oil or butter.
- Poaching: Bring pot of water, broth or beer to a gentle simmer.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment.
4. Cook Thoroughly
- Grilling: Cook 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally until browned.
- Pan-frying: Cook 5-7 minutes per side until browned.
- Poaching: Simmer 10-12 minutes until heated through.
- Baking: Bake 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Regardless of method, cook until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Adjust cooking times as needed.
5. Rest and Serve
- Transfer the cooked knockwurst to a plate.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute.
- Slice or leave whole and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
Follow these tips for perfectly cooked Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst every time:
- Pat sausages very dry before cooking for better browning.
- Preheat cooking surface properly before adding knockwurst.
- Use medium high heat to achieve nice charring on the outside.
- Flip/turn sausages frequently while cooking for even doneness.
- Always cook to an internal temperature of 160°F for food safety.
- Let rest 5 minutes after cooking so juices remain moist and flavors blend.
- Resist poking sausages while cooking to prevent losing any juices.
- Adjust cooking times based on size of sausages and desired doneness.
- Add sausages to already simmering poaching liquid for gentle cooking.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst is extremely versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
- Classic hot dog with mustard, ketchup, relish on a bun
- Sandwich with sauerkraut, onions and spicy mustard
- Chopped on top of hearty pizza or flatbread
- Added to pasta, potato salad, baked beans or soups
- Breakfast hash with peppers, onions, potatoes
- Appetizer sampler with cheeses, olives, nuts
- Skewered for appetizers with pineapple, bell pepper
- Simmered in beer, onions and pepper for beer brats
- Baked beans, macaroni casserole or shepherd’s pie topping
Mix up the flavors and get creative with recipes to enjoy Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst in exciting new ways.
Storing and Handling Recommendations
To safely enjoy Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst:
- Store sausages sealed in original packaging until ready to use.
- Place in refrigerator at 40°F or below for optimal freshness.
- Use within 1 week of opening for best quality.
- Rinse sausages before cooking to remove any casing debris.
- Cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Discard any unused cooked knockwurst after 7 days.
- Do not freeze raw sausages in casing or after cooking.
Follow proper food handling practices for delicious and safe results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions about cooking Boar’s Head Uncured Beef Knockwurst? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
How long does it take to cook Boar’s Head knockwurst?
Cooking times can vary based on method, but expect grilling, pan-frying or baking to take 8-15 minutes to reach food-safe internal temperature of 160°F. Poaching in simmering liquid takes 10-12 minutes.
What’s the best way to cook knockwurst?
The best cooking method depends on your preferences. Grilling, pan-frying, poaching and baking are all excellent options that produce delicious results.
Can you eat Boar’s Head knockwurst without cooking?
It is not recommended to eat raw knockwurst. Always cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F for food safety.
What temperature should I cook knockwurst to?
Cook Boar’s Head knockwurst to an internal temperature of 160°F as measured by a food thermometer for optimal safety and doneness.
Can I grill frozen Boar’s Head knockwurst?
It is best to thaw knockwurst thoroughly before grilling for food safety and to prevent uneven cooking. Grill from fully thawed state for ideal results.
What condiments go well with knockwurst?
Popular condiments include mustard, ketchup, relish, sauerkraut, and caramelized onions. Get creative and craft your own signature knockwurst topping!