Monégasque-inspired Loukaniko Sausage

Ingredients

In this Monégasque-inspired version of Loukaniko, we incorporate local herbs and spices from Monaco to add a unique twist to the traditional Greek recipe. The addition of Monégasque flavors enhances the overall taste profile, giving it a distinct Mediterranean touch. We alse have the original recipe for Loukaniko, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork 500g (1.1 lb) ground pork
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds, crushed 1 tablespoon fennel seeds, crushed
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, crushed 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, crushed
• 1 teaspoon orange zest 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Natural hog casings (optional, for casing the sausage) Natural hog casings (optional, for casing the sausage)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, minced garlic, crushed fennel seeds, crushed coriander seeds, orange zest, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   If using hog casings, rinse them thoroughly under cold water and soak them in water for about 30 minutes to soften.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the sausage mixture and shape it into a patty. Cook the patty in a skillet over medium heat to taste for seasoning. Adjust the seasoning of the remaining sausage mixture if needed.
4. 4.
   If using casings, carefully slide one end of the casing onto a sausage stuffer or a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Push the sausage mixture into the casing, twisting it every 4-5 inches to form individual sausages. Alternatively, shape the sausage mixture into patties or cylindrical shapes without casings.
5. 5.
   If using casings, tie off the open end of the sausage with kitchen twine. Prick any air bubbles that may have formed using a sterilized needle.
6. 6.
   Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sausages for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
7. 7.
   Serve the Monégasque-inspired Loukaniko sausages hot with your favorite side dishes or in a crusty bread roll.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fennel seeds — Toast the fennel seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant before crushing them. This will enhance their flavor.
• Orange zest — Use a microplane or a fine grater to zest the orange, making sure to only scrape the outer layer of the peel to avoid the bitter white pith.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sausage mixture.
• If you don't have access to hog casings, shape the sausage mixture into patties or cylindrical shapes without casings.
• Serve the Monégasque-inspired Loukaniko sausages with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness.
• These sausages can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the sausages.

Serving advice

Serve the Monégasque-inspired Loukaniko sausages as a main course alongside a fresh salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Alternatively, serve them in a crusty bread roll with your favorite condiments and toppings.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cooked sausages on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme, to add a pop of color. Serve them with a side of grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for an appealing presentation.