Smoked sausage is already packed with incredible flavor But deep frying takes it to the next level – creating an irresistibly crispy, crunchy exterior while sealing in all the juicy, smoky flavors inside It may sound intimidating, but deep frying smoked sausage at home is actually quite easy. With a few simple tips, you can make restaurant-worthy deep fried smoked sausage in no time.
Why Deep Fry Smoked Sausage?
There are a few key reasons deep frying can be the perfect cooking method for smoked sausage:
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Texture – Deep frying gives smoked sausage an amazingly crispy, crunchy coating while keeping the interior juicy and tender. This contrast of textures takes the sausage from great to irresistible.
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Intensified Flavor – The high heat of deep frying helps seal in the smoky flavors and seasoning inside the sausage, concentrating and intensifying the taste in every bite
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Quick Cooking – Deep frying cooks food very quickly by surrounding it thoroughly in hot oil, Smoked sausage reaches ideal doneness in just minutes
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Versatility – Deep fried smoked sausage can be enjoyed in many ways – by itself, in buns, chopped up in salads or pasta, and more.
Tips for Deep Frying Smoked Sausage
Follow these tips for deep fried smoked sausage perfection:
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Use good quality sausage – Choose sausages with a nice natural casing and well-balanced smoky flavor. Avoid sausages with too many fillers.
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Pat dry thoroughly – Blot sausages with paper towels to remove any exterior moisture. This helps the coating crisp up.
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Use a thermometer – Heat oil to 350-375°F and use a deep fry or candy thermometer to maintain proper temperature.
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Fry in batches – Do not crowd the pan. Fry sausages in small batches for even cooking.
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Turn frequently – Use tongs to gently turn sausages as they fry until golden brown all over.
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Don’t pierce the sausage – Resist poking sausages with a fork as this will cause juices to leak out.
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Drain on paper towels – Drain fried sausages on paper towels to soak up excess grease.
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Let rest before serving – Let sausages rest 3-5 minutes after frying so flavors can settle.
Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Frying Smoked Sausage
Follow these simple steps for perfect deep fried smoked sausage every time:
1. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
You can deep fry smoked sausage in either a countertop deep fryer or a heavy pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop. Fill with at least 4 inches of high smoke point oil like vegetable, peanut or canola oil.
2. Heat the Oil
Heat oil to 350-375°F using a deep fry thermometer to monitor temperature. Maintain this heat during cooking.
3. Dry Sausages Thoroughly
Pat smoked sausages dry with paper towels to remove any exterior moisture that can cause sputtering.
4. Carefully Add Sausages to Hot Oil
Gently add sausages to the hot oil using tongs. Do not overcrowd. Fry in batches if needed.
5. Fry Until Golden Brown
Fry for 6-8 minutes, turning frequently, until golden brown all over. Monitor for doneness.
6. Drain on Paper Towels
Remove sausages from oil and let drain on paper towel-lined plate for 1-2 minutes.
7. Let Rest and Serve
Let fried sausages rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Deep Frying Smoked Sausage
Can you deep fry smoked sausage from frozen?
It’s best not to deep fry frozen smoked sausage. Let sausage thaw completely in the refrigerator before frying for food safety and even cooking.
What temperature should you deep fry smoked sausage?
Heat your frying oil to 350-375°F. Maintain this temperature while cooking. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
How long do you fry smoked sausage?
Fry smoked sausage for 6-8 minutes, turning frequently, until evenly golden brown and cooked through. Cook times can vary by size.
What is the best oil for deep frying smoked sausage?
Opt for high smoke point neutral oils like canola, vegetable, peanut or avocado oil. Avoid olive oil as it can burn.
Should you prick sausage before frying?
Do not prick or pierce sausages before frying. This causes juices to leak out resulting in a drier sausage.
Cooking Ideas for Deep Fried Smoked Sausage
Deep fried smoked sausage is endlessly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
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On a bun with desired toppings like mustard, ketchup, relish, etc.
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Chopped up in pasta, potato salad, macaroni salad or coleslaw
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Diced and added to scrambled eggs, omelets or breakfast hash
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On top of salads, pizza or nachos
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By itself as an appetizer with assorted dipping sauces
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In bao buns or tacos for fun fusions
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On a stick at your next fair or cookout!
So grab some plump smoked sausages and heat up the oil – it’s time to deep fry your way to smoked sausage bliss!