Who has a freezer full of venison sausages?? Well, we sure do and I am always looking for different ways to make them. I saw the Pioneer Woman make these on one of her Christmas episodes and thought I would give them a try. I had some whiskey jalapeno cranberry sauce that I made earlier and this was a good way to use up what was left.
These sausages were fried on the outside before they were cooked in the sauce. This gives a nice crunchy texture to the sausages. The sauce was mixed in a separate bowl and then added to the pan to heat through. If you don’t eat them right away they can be kept warm in a crockpot or chafing dish.
The original recipe from Ree Drummond can be found on Food Network’s website here and is a fun new way to turn sausages into a Christmas appetizer.
Cranberry Christmas Sausages
Cranberry Christmas Sausages
Equipment
- 1 medium frying pan
- 1 separate bowl
Ingredients
- 1-14 oz can cranberry sauce
- 1/2 c BBQ Sauce
- 2 t soy sauce
- 2 t Dijon Mustard
- 2 t honey
- 1 tsp salt
- zest of one orange
- 2 lb. smoked sausage
Instructions
- Slice sausages in diagonal slices
- Fry in a medium frying pan until the outsides on both sides of the sausages are crispy
- In a separate bowl combine the cranberry sauce, bbq sauce, soy sauce, mustarg, honey, salt and zest.
- Add the sauce to the frying pan and cook until sauce is reduced and sticky, about 7 minutes on medium heat.
- Either eat right away or remove to a crock pot or chafing dish to keep warm.
Video
Tips for making Cranberry Christmas Sausages
If there’s one thing that makes my heart flutter during the holiday season, it’s the delightful aroma of Cranberry Christmas Sausages wafting through my home. The tantalizing scent of these succulent sausages effortlessly entwines with the festive cheer, creating an ambiance that is nothing short of magical.
Now, I know you’re eager to dive into the recipe, but remember, I’ve got that covered already. Today, let’s delve into some scrumptious serving suggestions, handy cooking tips, and we’ll also tackle some frequently asked questions. Ready? Let’s get started!
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry Christmas Sausages are a versatile treat that can be served in various delectable ways. Here are some of my personal favorites:
- Sausage Stuffing: Use these delicious morsels to make a unique stuffing for your Christmas turkey. The cranberries’ sweet tanginess perfectly complements the robust flavors of the turkey, creating a symphony of tastes.
- Sausage and Cheese Board: Arrange your Cranberry Christmas Sausages on a rustic wooden board along with an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruits. Trust me; your guests will love this simple yet elegant appetizer.
- Sausage Skewers: Thread these sausages onto skewers interlaced with bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Grill them lightly for an irresistible smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.
Cooking Tips
Cooking the perfect Cranberry Christmas Sausages isn’t rocket science, but a few tips can help you make them even better:
- Quality matters: Always choose high-quality sausages and fresh cranberries. Remember, the quality of your ingredients significantly affects the final outcome.
- Don’t rush the cooking: Sausages need to be cooked slowly on medium heat. This ensures they’re thoroughly cooked, and it also helps to retain their juiciness.
- Making ahead: You can prepare these sausages a day in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
FAQs
Over the years, I’ve received numerous queries about making these festive sausages. Here are some of the common ones:
- Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones? Yes, you certainly can. However, the flavor might differ slightly as dried cranberries tend to be sweeter.
- How long do these sausages last? If stored properly in an air-tight container, your Cranberry Christmas Sausages should stay good for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze these sausages? Absolutely! Just make sure to pack them well to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
There you have it, folks! My passion for Cranberry Christmas Sausages knows no bounds, and I believe that once you’ve tasted these, you’ll feel the same way. So go on, whip up a batch of these delightful sausages, and add an extra sprinkle of joy to your holiday feast. Happy cooking!