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Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage is a tasty treat that brings a bit of spice and flavor to your gatherings. It’s made with ground venison and mixed with jalapeños and cheddar cheese to give it a special kick. You can easily make it at home, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor: The combination of venison, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños creates a rich and spicy taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Homemade Goodness: You know exactly what goes into it. You can control the flavors and adjust the heat according to your taste.
- Perfect for Snacks: This sausage is great for picnics, barbecues, or even just a tasty snack at home with some crackers.
How to Make Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground venison
- 1/2 lb pork fat (for moisture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon Prague Powder #1 curing salt (for preservation)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground venison and pork fat. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños until evenly distributed.
- Add kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and curing salt. Mix thoroughly, ensuring all spices are evenly mixed into the meat.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into logs or sausages. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or butcher paper.
- Refrigerate the sausage logs overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat your smoker to 160°F (70°C). Remove the plastic wrap and place the sausage logs in the smoker.
- Smoke the sausages for about 3-4 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- Once done, remove from the smoker and let them cool before slicing.
- Enjoy your Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage at gatherings or as a delicious snack!
How to Serve Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage
Slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces and serve it with cheese, crackers, and some spicy mustard. It’s perfect for parties and casual get-togethers!
How to Store Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage
Wrap any leftovers in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months for longer storage.
Tips to Make Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage
- Make sure the meat and pork fat are well mixed for a smooth texture.
- Letting the sausage rest overnight helps the flavors blend well.
- Keep an eye on the temperature while smoking to make sure it cooks evenly.
Variations
You can use different cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or add more jalapeños if you like it hotter. You can also try mixing in other spices like paprika or crushed red pepper for a twist in flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other meats besides venison? Yes! You can substitute beef or pork if you don’t have venison.
How do I know when the sausage is done? Use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Can I bake the sausage instead of smoking it? Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it reaches the correct temperature. Just keep in mind it won’t have the smoky flavor.