Lamb sausage is a rich and flavorful addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking to add a unique twist to your typical sausage dishes or exploring new ways to incorporate lamb into your cooking, lamb sausage offers versatility and depth of flavor. From grilled sausages to hearty stews, this ingredient can elevate a range of recipes. In this article, we will explore five irresistible lamb sausage recipes that will satisfy your cravings for something new and delicious.
What is Lamb Sausage?
Lamb sausage is a type of sausage made from ground lamb meat and a blend of spices, herbs, and seasonings. Known for its rich and slightly gamey flavor, lamb sausage has become a popular alternative to traditional pork sausages. It is commonly used in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines, where lamb is a staple ingredient.
The sausages are typically stuffed into natural casings, though some recipes may also involve shaping the meat mixture into patties or skewers. The use of various herbs like garlic, rosemary, and thyme, along with spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika, gives lamb sausage its distinctive taste. It’s often paired with roasted vegetables, fresh greens, or served with hearty grains like couscous and quinoa.
5 Irresistible Lamb Sausage Recipes to Try
1. Grilled Lamb Sausage with Herb Yogurt Sauce
One of the simplest and most delicious ways to enjoy lamb sausage is by grilling it and serving it with a refreshing herb yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb sausages
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Grill the sausages: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the lamb sausages on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned on all sides.
- Prepare the herb yogurt sauce: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, mint, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Serve: Once the sausages are grilled to perfection, serve them with the herb yogurt sauce on the side. You can also pair it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
2. Lamb Sausage and Spinach Pasta
This dish combines the richness of lamb sausage with the freshness of spinach, all tossed with pasta and a garlic-butter sauce for the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb sausages, casings removed
- 250g (about 9 oz) pasta (your choice of penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
- Cook the lamb sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
- Make the sauce: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, letting the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the lamb sausage pasta with extra Parmesan on top and a side of garlic bread for a hearty meal.
3. Lamb Sausage Breakfast Skillet
Start your day right with a satisfying breakfast skillet featuring lamb sausage, eggs, and roasted potatoes. This dish is the perfect combination of savory flavors and a hearty start to your morning.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb sausages, crumbled
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 4 eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the potatoes: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the sausage and vegetables: In the same skillet, add the crumbled lamb sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the potatoes: Return the cooked potatoes to the skillet and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the eggs: Make four wells in the sausage mixture and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, and serve your lamb sausage breakfast skillet with toasted bread or avocado slices.
4. Lamb Sausage and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and warming dish, this lamb sausage and vegetable stew is perfect for cooler evenings. Packed with flavor and tender vegetables, it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb sausages, sliced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the sausage: In a large pot, brown the lamb sausage slices over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausages from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the broth and potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes and zucchini. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Combine everything: Return the browned sausage to the pot, add thyme, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread for dipping.
5. Lamb Sausage Tacos
For a quick and flavorful meal, these lamb sausage tacos are perfect. Topped with a zesty slaw and a tangy salsa, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb sausages, crumbled
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salsa of choice
Instructions:
- Cook the sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled lamb sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
- Make the slaw: In a bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and sour cream. Toss to combine.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for about 30 seconds, until warm and pliable.
- Assemble the tacos: Place a spoonful of cooked lamb sausage onto each tortilla, then top with the slaw and salsa.
- Serve: Enjoy your delicious lamb sausage tacos with a squeeze of lime and your favorite sides, such as guacamole or rice.
Conclusion
Lamb sausage brings a unique and savory flavor to any dish, from hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners. These five recipes show just how versatile lamb sausage can be in various cuisines, offering something for every palate. Whether you prefer grilled sausages, hearty stews, or tacos, these lamb sausage recipes are guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal. So, next time you’re in the mood for something flavorful and filling, don’t forget about the possibilities with lamb sausage.
FAQs
What makes lamb sausage different from other sausages?
Lamb sausage has a distinct flavor that comes from the lamb meat itself, which is more flavorful and slightly gamey compared to pork or beef sausages. It’s often paired with herbs and spices like rosemary, garlic, and cumin to enhance its rich taste.
Can I make lamb sausage at home?
Yes, you can make lamb sausage at home by grinding lamb meat and mixing it with spices and herbs. You can stuff the mixture into casings or form it into patties, depending on your preference.
How do I cook lamb sausage?
Lamb sausage can be grilled, pan-fried, or baked. It is important to cook it thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
What can I serve with lamb sausage?
Lamb sausage pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, couscous, salads, or grains like quinoa and rice. You can also serve it with dips like tzatziki or mustard.
Is lamb sausage healthy?
Lamb sausage is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and zinc. However, like all sausages, it can be high in fat, so it should be eaten in moderation.
Can I freeze lamb sausage?
Yes, you can freeze lamb sausage. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw it in the fridge before cooking.