Choriatiko Loukaniko (Country Sausage): A Taste of Greece
Welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into the delicious world of Greek cuisine with a special recipe for Choriatiko Loukaniko, also known as Country Sausage. This dish is more than just food; it’s a celebration of tradition and community in Greece. Choriatiko Loukaniko is made from high-quality meat, herbs, and spices, and is often prepared during festive occasions. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a favorite at family gatherings and barbecues. Plus, its popularity is growing around the world, making it a wonderful dish to try at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Pork shoulder (ground) | 2 lbs |
| Pork fat (ground) | 0.5 lbs |
| Red wine | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 5 cloves |
| Fennel seeds | 1 tsp |
| Oregano (dried) | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
| Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Animal casings | 1 package (optional, for stuffing) |
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option instead of pork. If you don’t have animal casings, you can shape the mixture into patties and grill them!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the meat: Start by placing the ground pork shoulder and pork fat in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the flavor: Mix in the minced garlic, fennel seeds, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well combined.
- Incorporate the wine: Slowly add the red wine to the meat mixture. Use your hands to mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Stuff the casings (optional): If using casings, rinse them in cold water. Stuff the meat mixture into the casings using a sausage stuffer, being careful not to overfill.
- Shape the sausages: If not using casings, form the mixture into patties. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Let them rest: Cover the sausages with plastic wrap and let them sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the sausages: Grill or pan-fry the sausages on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning until they are browned and cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy your delicious Choriatiko Loukaniko with fresh bread, vegetables, or your favorite sides!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Sodium | 500mg | 22% |
Tips and Tricks
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with additional spices like thyme or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs can elevate the taste significantly compared to dried.
- Don’t Rush: Allowing the mixture to rest in the fridge helps to improve the flavor.
- Grilling Tips: If grilling, make sure your grill is preheated for a nice sear!
FAQs
What is Choriatiko Loukaniko?
Choriatiko Loukaniko is a traditional Greek country sausage made from pork, spices, and sometimes red wine. It’s known for its rich flavor and hearty texture.
Can I make Choriatiko Loukaniko without casing?
Yes! If you prefer, you can skip the casing and instead shape the mixture into patties or meatballs for cooking.
What can I serve with these sausages?
Choriatiko Loukaniko pairs well with bread, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s also great in a sandwich!
How long can I store Choriatiko Loukaniko?
You can store cooked sausages in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option.
What’s the best way to cook them?
Grilling is the most popular method, but you can also pan-fry or bake your sausages depending on your preference.
Is Choriatiko Loukaniko spicy?
Choriatiko Loukaniko is not very spicy unless you add chili flakes or peppers. It has a savory flavor profile!
Do I need special equipment to make this sausage?
A sausage stuffer is helpful but not necessary. You can form the sausage into patties or use a piping bag to stuff the casing.
How long do I cook the sausages?
Cook the sausages for about 10-15 minutes, turning regularly until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Can I customize the spices?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking!
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Enjoy making and sharing your Choriatiko Loukaniko with friends and family. Opa!
