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Homemade Italian sausage prepared with fresh herbs and spices

Homemade Italian Sausage

Craft your own delectable Italian sausage filled with rich flavors of fennel, paprika, and fresh herbs, making it an aromatic experience that delights your senses.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meat and Seasonings
  • 6 pounds Pork shoulder (cut into large 2-inch cubes) Choose high-quality pork shoulder for optimal flavor.
  • 2.5 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 4 tablespoons fennel seeds
  • 4 tablespoons sweet paprika
  • 4 tablespoons fresh oregano (finely minced)
  • 4 tablespoons fresh basil (finely minced)
  • 4 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley (finely minced)
  • 2 tablespoons red pepper flakes Adjust for heat preference.
  • 2 tablespoons granulated garlic
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for heat preference.
  • ½ cup red wine (chilled) Enhances flavor and moisture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the pork shoulder into large 2-inch pieces, making sure to remove any bones or sinew.
  2. Pop those pieces in the freezer for 10-20 minutes to make grinding easier.
Grinding and Mixing
  1. Using a meat grinder, grind the pork into a bowl set in ice until you achieve the desired texture.
  2. Toss all the seasonings into the ground meat. Mix well until everything is combined.
  3. Pour in the chilled red wine and keep mixing until it’s delightfully sticky.
Taste Testing and Portioning
  1. Take a small amount and cook it in a pan to taste. Adjust the seasonings if needed.
  2. Divide the meat into smaller portions, ideally one-pound bags.
Storage
  1. Use freezer-safe or vacuum-sealed bags.
  2. Keep it in the fridge for 3-5 days, or freeze for later use.

Notes

Don't skip chilling the meat during preparation. It helps during grinding. You can substitute fresh herbs based on preference.