Kovbasa (Homemade Ukrainian Sausage)
Kovbasa is a traditional Ukrainian sausage, typically made from pork and beef, seasoned with garlic, pepper, and other spices. This homemade version can be prepared without casings, formed into links by hand, and then grilled, fried, baked, or poached. It's a versatile and flavorful dish, perfect served as an appetizer or a hearty main.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder(ground)
- 300 g Pork fat or fatty pork belly(ground)
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 15 g Salt
- 5 g Ground black pepper
- 5 g Paprika(optional, for color)
- 5 g Dried marjoram
- 100 ml Cold water
- 2 meters Pork sausage casings(natural or synthetic, optional)
- 50 ml Vinegar(for rinsing casings)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the casings (if using): Rinse pork casings thoroughly under cold water, then soak them in water mixed with vinegar for 30 minutes. Rinse again and set aside.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork shoulder and pork fat. Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika (if using), and marjoram. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well incorporated.
- 3
Gradually add cold water to the meat mixture, kneading it in to create a slightly sticky and cohesive filling. This ensures moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
- 4
If using casings: Set up a sausage stuffer or attach a sausage stuffing nozzle to your meat grinder. Carefully slide a prepared casing onto the nozzle. Stuff the casing with the meat mixture, being careful not to overfill. Twist the casing every 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) to form links. Poke small holes in the sausages with a pin to release air.
- 5
If not using casings: Form the meat mixture into sausage shapes by hand.
- 6
Cook the kovbasa: Bring a large pot of water to a gentle simmer (not boiling). Add the sausages and poach for about 15-20 minutes until firm and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30-40 minutes, or grill for a smoky flavor.
- 7
Let the sausages rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with mustard, fresh bread, and pickles.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a coarser texture, grind the meat only once. For a finer sausage, grind twice.
- ✓Taste and adjust seasoning by frying a small sample before stuffing the casings.
- ✓If you don't have peperivka (spiced whiskey), you can omit it or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.
- ✓Ensure the meat is cold when grinding for the best texture.
🔄 Variations
- Add grated carrot to the meat mixture for added moisture.
- Some recipes include a splash of cognac or vodka for added flavor.
- Serve cold in thin slices as an appetizer.