Dried sausages are a pure delight... So much so that we want to serve them as an appetizer and at every meal. But how do you eat them? And what can you serve with these delicious cured meats? The best answers in this guide.
But first, what's the difference between 'saucisson' and 'saucisse sèche'?
In terms of ingredients and preparation methods, there is no significant difference between saucisson and 'saucisse sèche'. Both are made from minced pork, seasoned, then dried in a sufficiently controlled environment to allow for maturation.
They are primarily distinguished by their shapes and dimensions: 'saucisse sèche' is most often curved and long (U-shaped) or straight and long, while 'saucisson' is both wider and shorter.
The reason is simple: the meat is stuffed into two different types of natural casings. 'Saucisse sèche' is encased in a thinner casing, while a larger pork casing is generally used for 'saucisson'. What do they have in common? A natural pork casing, of course!
Indeed, it is the natural ingredients that make quality cured meats. Pork casings are strong, edible, and easy to chew.
Now you know how to identify authentic dried sausages. After receiving your order, it's time to enjoy them!
So, what's the best way to enjoy dried sausages?
Just like with 'saucisson', the best way to enjoy dried sausages is to eat them on their own.
To fully appreciate the flavor of the meat, slowly infused with spices throughout the maturation process, as well as the drier yet tender texture of this exquisite charcuterie, it should be eaten as is. Cut it into thin slices and savor.
Thus, for a first taste, it is preferable to try the dried sausage without accompaniment. Afterwards, there's nothing to stop you from serving the charcuterie with a drink or other foods.
What to serve with dried sausages as an aperitif?
You can accompany dried sausages with classic elements such as pickled vegetables, olives, seasonal fruits (melon, apples), or dried fruits. They are also good as tapas with tomato bread.
If you want to be more original, consider incorporating dried sausage into skewers. Alternate rolled slices with grilled vegetables (eggplant, pepper, zucchini) or fresh ones (cherry tomatoes).
You can also create a charcuterie and cheese board. Dried sausage pairs well with cheeses that have a fairly intense flavor, like blue cheese or goat cheese.
As for drinks, dried sausages are easy to pair: a local white or red wine will do the trick. For example, you can serve an Ardèche sausage with a Saint-Joseph.
For a more casual aperitif with friends, feel free to serve dried sausages with craft beer.
What recipes can you make with dried sausages?
Dried sausages are not just for aperitifs; they also stimulate our culinary creativity. Here are a few successful pairings to try.
Dried sausage and rice: a refined and satisfying combo
With risotto, dried sausage makes a very interesting pairing. The creamy texture of the rice blends wonderfully with the firm savoriness of the meat. Sprinkle with grated cheese, and you have a dish to die for. Accompany your dish with a white wine to fully appreciate its flavor.
Dried sausages are also excellent in dishes like pilaf rice or homemade Cantonese rice. Sautéed with vegetables and spices, they give an exquisite taste to your dish. Moreover, they pair easily with other meats.
Pasta dishes with dried sausages: easy and delicious recipes
To please everyone, bring out your joker: pasta with dried sausages. Whether in carbonara style or with tomato sauce, you are spoiled for choice. Don't hesitate to spice it up with your favorite spices, and even a little paprika in the tomato sauce.
No matter what type of pasta you have at home, it's perfect. Penne, macaroni, rigatoni... with a few crispy small vegetables, the result will be impeccable. You can cut your sausages into slices or strips.
Muffins, savory cakes, quiches: the art of savoring leftovers
With their exquisite taste, it's hard to leave leftover dried sausages, but it can still happen. If it does, know that there's a wide choice of preparations in which you can incorporate them.
A good egg pastry, a few slices of dried sausage, maybe a little cream, and voilà! You've just cooked an excellent savory snack. Stuffed cakes and muffins are also perfect for picnics.
Dried sausages in salad: it's light and so good!
Speaking of cold meals, dried sausages also work well in salads. There are no rules here: you can pair them with your favorite fresh vegetables, without restriction. Cucumbers, tomatoes, arugula, or lettuce add color and freshness to balance the fat of the sausage. You can also use grated or steamed carrots. Olives enhance the whole dish, to be seasoned with a good vinaigrette.
For a more gourmet and less orthodox cocktail, don't hesitate to add grated cheese or mayonnaise.
Original and nutritious sandwiches
With dried sausages, your quick meals and picnics become beautiful gustatory experiences.
If you're in a hurry, you can just spread homemade sauce on the bread before adding the charcuterie. This makes for an original and delicious hot dog, all without chemical additives.
If you have the time and, more importantly, the desire, take the trouble to spread a generous handful of salad, sliced or grated fresh vegetables, as well as your favorite sauce. Tabasco can be a good idea to spice up your sandwich sauce.
