Cooking Chinese sausage is a delightful culinary adventure that allows you to savor the rich and unique flavors of this traditional delicacy. Whether you prefer it steamed, stir – fried, or incorporated into other dishes, there are several methods to prepare Chinese sausage to perfection. In this article, I’ll guide you through the detailed steps of cooking Chinese sausage in different ways.
Understanding Chinese Sausage
Chinese sausage, also known as lap cheong, is a type of dried, cured sausage. It is typically made from pork, although there can be variations that include other meats or ingredients. The sausage is seasoned with a blend of spices, including salt, sugar, soy sauce, and five – spice powder, which gives it a distinct sweet – savory flavor. Some Chinese sausages may also have a hint of spiciness, depending on the region and personal preferences.
The texture of Chinese sausage is firm and chewy, with a slightly oily surface. The drying and curing process not only preserves the sausage but also intensifies its flavors. Chinese sausages come in different lengths and thicknesses, and they are usually sold in vacuum – sealed packages or hanging in markets.
Preparing Chinese Sausage
Before cooking Chinese sausage, it’s important to prepare it properly. Here are the steps:
Inspect and Clean: Examine the sausage for any signs of damage or spoilage. If the packaging is open or the sausage has an unusual odor, it’s best to discard it. Wipe the surface of the sausage with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Slice or Cut: Depending on the recipe, you can slice the sausage into thin rounds, diagonal slices, or cut it into smaller pieces. Using a sharp knife will make the slicing process easier and ensure clean cuts. If the sausage is very hard, you can soak it in warm water for a few minutes to soften it slightly before slicing.
Steaming Chinese Sausage
Steaming is one of the simplest and most popular ways to cook Chinese sausage. This method helps to retain the sausage’s natural flavors and juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Prepare the Steamer: Fill a steamer pot or a wok with enough water to reach just below the steaming rack. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Place the Sausage: Arrange the sliced or whole Chinese sausage on a heat – resistant plate. Make sure the plate fits inside the steamer without touching the water.
Steam: Once the water is boiling, carefully place the plate of sausage into the steamer. Cover the steamer tightly with a lid and reduce the heat to medium. Steam the sausage for about 10 – 15 minutes, or until it is heated through and slightly plump. The exact steaming time may vary depending on the thickness of the sausage.
Check for Doneness: To check if the sausage is cooked, insert a toothpick or a thin skewer into the thickest part of the sausage. If the toothpick comes out clean and the sausage feels firm but not hard, it is ready.
Serve: Remove the sausage from the steamer and let it cool slightly before serving. You can serve steamed Chinese sausage on its own as a snack or side dish, or use it as an ingredient in other recipes, such as fried rice or congee.
Stir – Frying Chinese Sausage
Stir – frying Chinese sausage is another great way to enjoy its flavors. This method adds a crispy texture to the sausage and allows you to combine it with other ingredients for a more complex dish.
Prepare the Ingredients: In addition to Chinese sausage, you can choose a variety of vegetables and seasonings to stir – fry with. Some popular choices include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and scallions. Cut the vegetables into bite – sized pieces and set them aside.
Heat the Pan: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or a large skillet over medium – high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the sausage.
Add the Sausage: Add the sliced Chinese sausage to the hot pan and stir – fry for about 2 – 3 minutes, or until it starts to brown and release some of its oil.
Add the Vegetables: Push the sausage to the side of the pan and add the prepared vegetables to the empty space. Stir – fry the vegetables for a few minutes, or until they start to soften.
Combine and Season: Once the vegetables are partially cooked, combine them with the sausage in the pan. Add your desired seasonings, such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, or a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir – fry the mixture for another 2 – 3 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through and the flavors are well – combined.
Serve: Transfer the stir – fried Chinese sausage and vegetables to a serving plate and serve hot. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
Using Chinese Sausage in Other Dishes
Chinese sausage can be used in a variety of other dishes to add flavor and texture. Here are some ideas:
Fried Rice: Chinese sausage fried rice is a classic dish. Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions and let it cool. In a wok or skillet, heat some oil and add diced Chinese sausage. Stir – fry until the sausage is fragrant. Add eggs and scramble them with the sausage. Then, add the cooked rice, along with vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir – fry everything together until the rice is heated through and well – combined.
Congee: Congee, a type of rice porridge, can be enhanced with Chinese sausage. While the congee is cooking, add sliced Chinese sausage and let it simmer in the porridge. The flavors of the sausage will infuse into the congee, making it more delicious. You can also add other ingredients like ginger, scallions, and a drizzle of soy sauce for extra flavor.
Baked Dishes: Chinese sausage can be used in baked dishes such as quiches or bread. For a Chinese sausage quiche, whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings. Add sliced Chinese sausage and your choice of vegetables, like spinach and cheese. Pour the mixture into a pie crust and bake in the oven until the quiche is set and golden brown. In bread recipes, you can incorporate diced Chinese sausage into the dough for a savory twist.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftover cooked Chinese sausage, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its quality. Let the sausage cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 – 4 days.
To reheat Chinese sausage, you can steam it for a few minutes or microwave it on a low power setting for a short time. Avoid over – reheating, as this can make the sausage dry and tough.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cooking Chinese sausage offers a wide range of possibilities. Whether you choose to steam it, stir – fry it, or use it in other dishes, following these detailed steps will help you create delicious and satisfying meals. Experiment with different recipes and ingredients to discover your favorite ways to enjoy this traditional Chinese delicacy. With a little practice, you’ll be able to cook Chinese sausage like a pro and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
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