Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Snack

If you’re like me, you love experimenting in the kitchen, especially when it comes to crafting your own charcuterie. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household—Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage! This recipe blends the rich, gamey flavor of venison with the bold heat of jalapeños and the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese. It’s a savory delight that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying as a high-protein snack.

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Why You’ll Love This Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage

This recipe is a must-try for several reasons:

• Bold Flavors: The combination of venison, jalapeño, and cheddar creates a flavor explosion in every bite. The spicy kick from the jalapeños pairs perfectly with the rich, slightly sweet venison, while the cheddar adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Perfect Texture: Summer sausage has a unique, firm yet tender texture that’s easy to slice and perfect for snacking.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own sausage. You control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful product than store-bought versions.
• Versatility: Whether served on a charcuterie board, as part of a sandwich, or on its own, this sausage is anything but boring!

The Taste: A Savory Symphony

Imagine biting into a slice of summer sausage that’s both smoky and spicy, with pockets of melted cheddar oozing through each bite. The venison’s robust flavor is complemented by the heat of the jalapeño, balanced perfectly by the smooth, rich cheddar. The smokiness, whether from liquid smoke or the real deal, adds that final touch that makes this sausage irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 5 lbs ground venison
• 1 lb ground pork (for added fat content)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3-4 jalapeños, finely diced (adjust based on your spice preference)
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon mustard seed
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon curing salt (Prague Powder #1)
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, for added smokiness)
• 1 cup ice-cold water

Necessary Tools for Preparation

• Meat grinder (if you prefer grinding your own meat)
• Mixing bowl large enough for all ingredients
• Sausage stuffer or casings (optional)
• Butcher’s twine if tying sausage by hand
• Oven or smoker (for curing and cooking)
• Thermometer (to ensure proper internal temperature)

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar for pepper jack for an extra spicy kick or gouda for a smokier flavor.
• Meat Variations: Mix in some beef or use all pork if you don’t have venison on hand.
• Heat Level: Add more jalapeños or even a dash of cayenne pepper if you like your sausage extra spicy.

this Recipe

How to Make Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground venison and pork. Add the diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar, and all the seasonings. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

Step 2: Shape the Sausage

If using casings, stuff the mixture into the casings and tie off the ends. If you prefer a more rustic look, form the mixture into logs by hand and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then tie with butcher’s twine.

Step 3: Cure the Sausage

Refrigerate the sausage logs for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the curing salt to work its magic.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

Preheat your oven or smoker to 170°F (75°C). Place the sausages on a rack and cook slowly until they reach an internal temperature of 155°F (68°C). This can take several hours, so patience is key!

Step 5: Cool and Store

Once cooked, let the sausages cool completely before slicing. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:

• Crackers and cheese on a charcuterie board
• In sandwiches for a flavorful, meaty bite
• With pickles and mustard for a classic pairing

Tips for Making the Best Summer Sausage

• Cold Ingredients: Keep everything cold while mixing and shaping to ensure the fat stays firm and creates the perfect sausage texture.
• Don’t Rush the Cure: Letting the sausage cure in the fridge ensures the flavors develop fully and the texture is just right.
• Temperature Control: Cooking the sausage slowly at a low temperature is crucial for a tender, juicy final product.

Storage Instructions

Store your summer sausage in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use only venison?

Yes, but adding pork helps improve the texture and flavor balance by adding the necessary fat content.

Can I skip the curing salt?

Curing salt is important for both safety and flavor, as it prevents bacterial growth and gives the sausage its characteristic taste.

What if I don’t have a smoker?

You can use an oven with liquid smoke for flavor. Just cook at a low temperature and follow the recipe instructions.

Conclusion: The Perfect Sausage for Every Occasion

Venison Jalapeño Cheddar Summer Sausage is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. The bold flavors, satisfying texture, and homemade charm make it a standout addition to any meal or snack time. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just getting into making your own charcuterie, this recipe is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Love This Recipe? Try These Too!

• Quick and Easy Chicken Ranch Wrap: A delicious lunch in minutes.
• Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls: A sweet, crispy treat that’s hard to resist.
• Chicken and Vegetable Mix for Dogs: A homemade meal your furry friend will love.

Don’t forget to leave a review! Share your photos on Pinterest here and let me know how your sausage turned out. I can’t wait to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 560mg

This hearty, flavorful sausage is packed with protein and just the right amount of heat—perfect for any meat lover looking to add a little spice to their life!

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