Italian Sausage from Scratch

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Italian Sausage from Scratch.

1. Step 1

   Begin by cutting the pork shoulder into bite-sized cubes and placing them in a bowl.

2. Step 2

   Set the bowl in the refrigerator while you prepare the other ingredients.

3. Step 3

   In a mortar, combine garlic and a pinch of salt, grinding them into a smooth paste.

4. Step 4

   Introduce the toasted fennel seeds, anise seed, and black pepper, gently bruising the spices to unlock their aromatic essence.

5. Step 5

   Mix in red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, oregano, marjoram, coriander, mustard, allspice, and sugar if desired, adding a splash of cold water to create a cohesive blend.

6. Step 6

   Pour this vibrant spice mixture over the pork cubes, mixing thoroughly by hand to ensure every piece is well-coated.

7. Step 7

   Add the remaining salt, cover the bowl, and let it chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen and harmonize.

8. Step 8

   Once ready, process the chilled pork mixture through a meat grinder on the slowest setting until finely ground.

9. Step 9

   Prepare your sausage casing by sliding it onto the stuffing tube of your meat grinder.

10. Step 10

    Feed the sausage mixture through the filling tray, filling the casing until all the mixture is used.

11. Step 11

    Tie off the end of the casing securely, and if you wish, pinch and twist the sausage to create individual links.

12. Step 12

    Arrange the sausages on a wire rack set over a sheet pan and refrigerate them uncovered for 24 hours to firm up.

13. Step 13

    When you're ready to cook, preheat a charcoal grill to medium heat and grill the sausage links until they are beautifully browned, about 5 minutes per side.

14. Step 14

    Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a sense of pride, knowing you’ve crafted delicious homemade sausages from scratch.