Barese Sausage Recipe

Barese sausage, a culinary gem from Bari, Italy, is celebrated for its distinct ingredients and savory flavors. This specialty sausage is not just a food item but a cultural symbol, representing the rich culinary traditions of Southern Italy. In this article, we’ll explore the intricacies of Barese sausage, how to make it, and why it’s a must-try for any sausage lover.

What is Barese Sausage?

Barese sausage is a type of Italian sausage specific to the Bari region. Unlike typical Italian sausages made primarily from pork, Barese sausage includes a combination of pork, lamb, and veal, seasoned with local spices and herbs, making it uniquely tender and flavorful. It is often made with fennel seeds, which give it a characteristic taste.

Ingredients of This Recipe

Here’s what you need to create authentic Barese sausage at home:

Ingredient	Quantity
Pork shoulder	2 pounds
Lamb	1 pound
Veal	1 pound
Salt	2 teaspoons
Fresh parsley	1/4 cup, chopped
Garlic	4 cloves, minced
Fennel seeds	1 tablespoon
Red wine	1/2 cup
Crushed red pepper	1 teaspoon
Natural casing	As needed

Equipment for This Recipe

• Meat grinder
• Large mixing bowl
• Sausage stuffer
• Kitchen scale
• Cutting board and knife

Instruction Detail of This Recipe

1. Prepare the Meat:
   • Cube the pork shoulder, lamb, and veal into chunks suitable for grinding.
2. Grind the Meat:
   • Using a meat grinder, grind the pork, lamb, and veal together. Place the ground meat in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix Ingredients:
   • Add salt, chopped parsley, minced garlic, fennel seeds, red wine, and crushed red pepper to the ground meat. Mix thoroughly by hand to ensure even distribution of spices.
4. Stuff the Sausage:
   • Prepare the natural casing and attach it to the sausage stuffer. Feed the seasoned meat mixture through the stuffer, filling the casing. Twist or tie off the sausage into 6-inch links.
5. Cooking:
   • Barese sausage can be grilled, roasted, or sautéed. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

What to Serve with Barese Sausage

This sausage pairs beautifully with:

• Polenta or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• A crisp green salad to balance the richness.
• Roasted vegetables, such as peppers and onions.

What Does the Recipe Taste Like?

Barese sausage offers a rich, complex flavor profile. The combination of meats provides a deep, savory base, enhanced by the aromatic fennel and the warmth of red pepper. The red wine adds a slight acidity and richness, making each bite both sophisticated and satisfying.

How Healthy is This Recipe?

Barese sausage is relatively high in protein but also in fats, especially if higher-fat cuts of meat are used. Moderation is key, and pairing the sausage with healthy sides like vegetables can make for a balanced meal.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Recipe

• Quality Meat: Use fresh, high-quality meats from a trusted butcher.
• Balanced Spicing: Adjust the level of fennel and red pepper to suit your taste but be mindful of overpowering the natural flavors of the meat.
• Proper Mixing: Ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed to distribute flavors uniformly throughout the sausage.

What Makes This Recipe Delicious?

The deliciousness of Barese sausage lies in its diversity of meats and the careful balance of seasonings. Each ingredient is chosen to complement the others, resulting in a sausage that is both flavorful and unique.

FAQs about Barese Sausage

1. Can I use only pork if I don’t have veal and lamb?
   • Yes, though the flavor profile will differ slightly from traditional Barese sausage.
2. How long can I store homemade Barese sausage?
   • In the refrigerator, it can be stored for up to 3 days. Frozen, it lasts for 2-3 months.
3. Is Barese sausage spicy?
   • It has a mild heat, which can be adjusted by the amount of crushed red pepper used.
4. Can I cook Barese sausage in the oven?
   • Yes, bake at 375°F until thoroughly cooked.
5. What wine pairs well with Barese sausage?
   • A robust red wine, like Primitivo or Nero di Troia, complements its rich flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	21g
Total Fat	24g
Carbohydrates	1g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Sugars	0g

Conclusion

Barese sausage embodies the spirit of Bari’s rich culinary culture, offering a taste experience that is deeply rooted in tradition yet versatile enough to be adapted in many modern kitchens. Whether grilled on a warm summer evening or enjoyed as part of a festive meal, this sausage is a celebration of flavor and heritage.