Are you a fan of sausage? Do you enjoy trying new and unique flavors?
Look no further than Drake Meats, a family-owned business based in Saskatchewan, Canada. Their Nest Drake Sausage is a delicious and flavorful option for any meal.
But how do you cook it to perfection?
In this article, we’ll explore the best methods for cooking Drake sausage and provide some tips for making it a standout dish at your next meal.
So fire up the grill or preheat the oven, and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Drake Sausage?
There are several ways to cook Drake sausage, depending on your preference and available equipment. Here are some of the most popular methods:
1. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the sausage on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Serve hot off the grill with your favorite toppings and sides.
2. Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sausage on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For extra flavor, you can brush the sausage with BBQ sauce or honey mustard before baking.
3. Pan-frying: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan, then add the sausage. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the sausage is fully cooked and safe to eat. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for pork sausage.
Introduction To Drake Meats And Nest Drake Sausage
Drake Meats is a Saskatchewan-based business that has been producing high-quality meats for over 70 years. The company was established in 1949 as a co-operative meat locker to process local farmers’ animals in the small community of Drake, which had a population of only 200 people. Over the years, Drake Meats has grown and expanded its product line, which includes bacon, smokies, and emulsion products like hot dogs and bologna. The company’s success can be attributed to its commitment to quality and innovation, as well as its use of natural smoke made from oak and maple chips.
One of Drake Meats’ most popular products is Nest Drake Sausage, which is made with mild Mennonite sausage and loaded with veggies and fresh herbs. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying. The dish features red potatoes, carrots, red onions, and garlic cloves tossed with dried thyme and oregano, then topped with sausages and a savory pan gravy made with melted butter, flour, and beef broth.
Drake Meats takes pride in producing small-batch products that are carefully monitored for quality at every stage of the process. The company still does everything by hand, from adding the spice to ensuring the cuts and grinds are perfect. Although Drake Meats remains true to its traditions, it also stays on top of innovation and technology. Computer programs control smoke cycles and document quality controls, while new products are developed in response to changing taste expectations from different demographics and well-traveled palates.
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that’s packed with flavor, try cooking Nest Drake Sausage using one of the methods described above. You won’t be disappointed with the taste or quality of this Saskatchewan-made product!
Preparing The Sausage For Cooking
Before cooking Drake sausage, it’s important to prepare it properly to ensure that it cooks evenly and stays juicy. Here are some tips for preparing the sausage for cooking:
1. Thaw the sausage: If you’re using frozen Drake sausage, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
2. Slice or prick the sausage: If you’re grilling or pan-frying the sausage, you may want to slice it into pieces or prick it with a fork to allow the heat to penetrate the sausage more easily. This can also help prevent the sausage from bursting while cooking.
3. Season the sausage: Drake sausage is delicious on its own, but you can also add some extra flavor by seasoning it before cooking. Try rubbing it with your favorite spice blend or marinating it in BBQ sauce or beer for a few hours before cooking.
4. Choose the right cooking method: Different cooking methods will yield different results, so choose the method that best suits your taste and equipment. Grilling will give you a smoky flavor and crispy exterior, while baking will result in a juicy and tender sausage. Pan-frying is a quick and easy option that will give you a nicely browned sausage.
By following these tips for preparing Drake sausage for cooking, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your favorite way to cook this versatile and flavorful sausage.
Grilling Drake Sausage
Grilling Drake sausage is a popular method that gives the sausage a smoky flavor and a crispy exterior. To grill Drake sausage, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Build a two-zone fire with all the coals piled under one side of the cooking grate. This will allow you to move the sausages back and forth from the cool to the hot side, carefully monitoring their internal temperatures with a probe thermometer.
Once the grill is hot, place the sausage on the hot side of the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Be careful not to overcook the sausage as it may become dry and lose its flavor.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your grilled Drake sausage, consider brushing it with BBQ sauce or honey mustard before grilling. This will give it a sweet and tangy flavor that will complement the smoky taste of the grill.
Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the sausage more tender and flavorful.
Grilled Drake sausage is perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or any occasion where you want to enjoy delicious food in the company of friends and family. With these simple steps, you can grill Drake sausage like a pro and impress everyone with your culinary skills.
Baking Drake Sausage
Baking Drake sausage is a simple and delicious way to cook this tasty meat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to bake Drake sausage:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
3. Place the Drake sausage on the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
4. If desired, you can brush the sausage with BBQ sauce or honey mustard for extra flavor.
5. Bake the sausage in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the sausage over to ensure even cooking and browning.
7. Once done, remove the sausage from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Baked Drake sausage pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Pan-Frying Drake Sausage
Pan-frying Drake sausage is a great option for those who want a quick and easy way to cook this delicious sausage. To get the perfect texture and flavor, it’s important to follow a two-step cooking process that involves boiling in water and then pan-frying.
Start by adding the sausages to a large pan and filling it with enough cold water to just cover the sausages. You can add beer, juice, or wine to the water for extra flavor. Heat the pan over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes or until the water begins to gently boil.
Once the sausages are cooked through, remove them from the pan and let them cool for a few minutes. This will allow them to firm up and make it easier to pan fry without falling apart. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan.
Add the sausages to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. You can also slice the sausages in half before frying to get a crispy interior.
Once done, remove the sausages from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides or toppings.
Pan-frying Drake sausage is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful sausage. With just a few steps, you can have a perfectly cooked sausage that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Serving Suggestions And Pairings
Once you have cooked your Drake sausage, there are several serving suggestions and pairings to consider. One classic pairing is sautéed peppers and onions. Simply slice up some sweet peppers and onions, sauté them in a pan with a little oil until they’re soft and caramelized, and serve them alongside the sausage. This combination is bursting with flavor and makes for a satisfying meal.
If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider pairing your sausage with roasted vegetables. You can roast any combination of vegetables you like, such as butternut squash, mushrooms, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli rabe. Toss them in olive oil and seasonings, then roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized. Serve them alongside the sausage for a wholesome and balanced meal.
For a more casual meal, try serving your sausage on a bun with your favorite toppings. Classic toppings include mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, and relish. You can also get creative with toppings like caramelized onions, pickled jalapeños, or avocado.
If you’re serving your sausage as part of a larger meal, consider pairing it with a side salad or some roasted potatoes. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great way to balance out the richness of the sausage. Roasted potatoes are also a classic pairing that complements the savory flavors of the sausage.
Finally, don’t forget to pair your sausage with your favorite beverage. Beer is a classic choice that pairs well with the savory flavors of the sausage. If you prefer wine, try a light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc.
With these serving suggestions and pairings in mind, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal using Drake sausage as the star ingredient.