Siskonmakkara alla Lucana

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Finnish Siskonmakkara is transformed into a Lucanian delight by infusing it with Basilicatan flavors. The original dish typically consists of Finnish sausages served with mustard and bread. However, in this recipe, the sausages are cooked in a fragrant tomato sauce infused with Basilicatan spices and served with creamy polenta, a staple in Basilicatan cuisine. This fusion of flavors and ingredients creates a unique and delicious dish that combines the best of Finnish and Basilicatan culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Siskonmakkara, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) Finnish sausages 500g (1.1 lb) Finnish sausages
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 250g (8.8 oz) instant polenta 250g (8.8 oz) instant polenta
• 1 liter (4 cups) water 1 liter (4 cups) water
• 50g (1.8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese 50g (1.8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 550 kcal / 2300 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 35g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the Finnish sausages to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sausages simmer in the tomato sauce for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.
5. 5.
   While the sausages are simmering, prepare the polenta. In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the instant polenta and continue whisking for 2-3 minutes, or until the polenta thickens.
6. 6.
   Remove the polenta from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
7. 7.
   Serve the Siskonmakkara alla Lucana by placing a generous spoonful of creamy polenta on each plate. Top with the sausages and tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
8. 8.
   Enjoy this delightful fusion of Finnish and Basilicatan flavors!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Finnish sausages — Look for high-quality sausages made with a combination of pork and beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Canned diced tomatoes — Opt for canned tomatoes without added salt or seasonings to have better control over the dish's overall saltiness.
• Instant polenta — Follow the package instructions for the correct water-to-polenta ratio and cooking time, as it may vary between brands.
• Parmesan cheese — Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato sauce.
• If you prefer a smoother tomato sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the canned diced tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
• Serve the Siskonmakkara alla Lucana with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the tomato sauce.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Siskonmakkara alla Lucana hot, with the sausages and tomato sauce generously spooned over a bed of creamy polenta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a side of crusty bread to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the sausages on top of the polenta, allowing the vibrant tomato sauce to cascade down the sides. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with a sprig of fresh basil for an elegant touch. Serve on individual plates or in a family-style platter for sharing.