In the Summer of 2022 Beyond Meat started to release new packaging across their product lines. This is the Hot Italian sausage packaging for 2022. It stands out because of its bright green color and simple, clear design. It should also be noted, as compared to their 2020 product the nutrition has also changed.
Fats and carbs are up, protein is down, which is a kinda disappointing directional change. I can’t tell the difference in taste, but I should say that the product is still not as good as the version that came out before 2020, when the outside casing was much better.
All those points considered this is style my favorite meat free, Italian-style sausage. It is still the best on the market at imitating the taste, texture, and many uses of a bratwurst-style sausage made from pork.
The following three pictures are the 2022 Beyond Sausage Hot Italian links raw, cooked and the packages nutrition. After that our reviews from 2020 and 2018 respectively:
Beyond Sausage has been taking the plant-based meat industry by storm. This innovative sausage alternative mirrors the taste texture, and sizzle of traditional pork sausage – but without the meat.
Naturally, Beyond Sausage has become a staple for vegetarians vegans, and flexitarians looking to reduce their consumption of animal products. However a common question arises can you microwave Beyond Sausage? Or does it need to be prepared a special way?
In this article, we’ll answer whether or not you can microwave Beyond Sausage We’ll also provide cooking instructions for the microwave and other preparation methods to get the best results
Can You Microwave Beyond Sausage?
The short answer is yes, you can microwave Beyond Sausage. However, the company recommends against it for optimal taste and texture.
Microwaving can lead to a rubbery, unevenly heated sausage casing. It also won’t provide the sizzling, grill-marked finish that gives Beyond Sausage its quintessential meaty flavor.
But in a pinch, microwaving Beyond Sausage is safe. Just be sure to heat it thoroughly to 165°F internal temperature. This kills any bacteria for food safety.
Below are some microwave tips for heating Beyond Sausage:
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Remove sausage from packaging and place on microwave-safe plate. Leaving in packaging can release chemicals into food.
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Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through, checking temperature each time. Avoid overheating.
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Let sausage rest 1-2 minutes before eating, as contents will be hot.
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Expect a softer, less crispy texture than other cooking methods.
While microwaving Beyond Sausage is convenient, other preparation methods are recommended for better results.
The Best Cooking Methods for Beyond Sausage
Grilling
Grilling makes Beyond Sausage sizzle and char just like traditional pork sausage. The high heat firms up the casing and locks in savory juices inside.
To grill Beyond Sausage:
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Preheat grill to medium-high, around 400°F.
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Lightly oil grates to prevent sticking.
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Place sausages diagonally across grates. Grill 4-6 minutes per side.
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Check internal temperature, grill longer if needed until 165°F.
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Let rest 1-2 minutes before serving.
Grilling gives Beyond Sausage its signature taste and texture for the full meaty experience.
Pan Frying
Pan frying is a quick and easy stovetop method for cooking Beyond Sausage. It yields a crispy, browned exterior and tender interior.
Follow these tips for pan frying Beyond Sausage:
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Heat nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add oil or cooking spray.
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Add sausage links and cook 4-5 minutes per side until browned.
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Turn sausage frequently for even browning.
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Check internal temperature, cook longer if needed until 165°F.
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Let rest 1-2 minutes before eating.
The sizzle of pan frying adds great flavor to Beyond Sausage in minutes.
Oven Baking
For a hands-off method, baking Beyond Sausage in the oven is simple. It consistently cooks the sausages all the way through.
To bake Beyond Sausage:
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Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Arrange sausages on sheet and bake 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Check temperature, bake longer if needed until 165°F internally.
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Let sausages rest 1-2 minutes before serving.
With little effort, oven baking yields hot, juicy Beyond Sausages.
Air Frying
Air frying makes Beyond Sausage crispy on the outside while keeping it moist inside. It’s a quick and healthy cooking method.
Here’s how to air fry Beyond Sausage:
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Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
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Place sausages in fryer basket lightly greased with oil.
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Cook 10-12 minutes, shaking basket occasionally for even cooking.
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Check internal temp, cook longer if needed until 165°F.
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Let rest 1-2 minutes before eating.
The circulating hot air of an air fryer makes Beyond Sausage crispy and delicious.
Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker may seem surprising for sausage, but it tenderizes the meaty casing of Beyond Sausage.
To slow cook Beyond Sausage:
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Grease slow cooker with oil or cooking spray.
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Add sausage links and cooked veggies if desired.
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Cook on low for 4-6 hours until product reaches 165°F.
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Broil sausages briefly to crisp casing if wanted.
Slow cooking allows flavors to mingle for a tender, juicy Beyond Sausage.
Boiling
It’s not recommended to boil Beyond Sausage, as the sausage can lose its shape, texture, and flavor. Boiling draws out moisture, resulting in a mushy, bland sausage.
For a plump, juicy, and flavorful Beyond Sausage, stick to dry heat cooking methods. Grilling, pan frying, and baking yield the best results.
Proper Internal Temperature for Safety
No matter which cooking method you use, it’s vital to heat Beyond Sausage to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. This kills any bacteria present, preventing foodborne illness.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature, inserting into thickest part of sausage. Cook Beyond Sausage longer if needed until 165°F is reached.
Let sausage rest 1-2 minutes before eating since contents will be hot. Beyond Sausage can be safely stored for 3-5 days refrigerated once cooked.
Cooking Beyond Sausage from Frozen
Beyond Sausage can be cooked directly from frozen for convenience. The cooking time will take a bit longer than thawed sausage.
On the stovetop, cook frozen Beyond Sausage about 1 minute longer per side when pan frying. For the oven or air fryer, add 2-3 extra minutes to the recommended cook times.
Check the internal temperature regularly when cooking from frozen. Cook the sausages until 165°F is reached for food safety.
While microwaving Beyond Sausage is possible, grilling, pan frying, baking, or air frying all yield tastier results. Always cook Beyond Sausage to 165°F internal temperature to eliminate bacteria.
From freezer to plate, Beyond Sausage can be cooked using a variety of methods for a satisfying plant-based alternative. Experiment to find your favorite preparation for optimal texture and flavor.
Beyond Meat The Beyond Sausage – what’s in the box
Four sausage links come in a cardboard box, the whole lot is wrapped in shrink wrap. Once opened you’ll need to eat these in just a few days time. Beyond Sausage – Hot Italian in the box Beyond Sausage – Hot Italian links close up.
Beyond Meat The Beyond Sausage cooking instructions and nutrition
You’ll need to cook these in the frying pan or on the grill. Since they’re high in fat, cover that pan with a lid when you cook inside. Your kitchen will thank you later. Seriously, these spit and spatter just like the real thing. Like all Beyond Meat products, you won’t want to microwave these. Because they’re meaty, I think they’d also do well on the grill; I wouldn’t worry about them falling apart over high heat.
Nutritionally, the Beyond Sausage isn’t the healthiest choice. In an effort to capture that real meat lusciousness they’re loaded with fat. Not as much as a pork-based product, but don’t think that “plant-based” really means “diet food.” Beyond Sausage packaging rear.
Is the Beyond Meat Sausage Any Good? 2 Minute Review!
FAQ
Can you cook beyond sausage in the microwave?
Can you cook beyond meat in the microwave?
Can you microwave plant based sausage?
Can you microwave impossible sausage links?
Can you cook beyond sausage in a microwave?
Note: if you have frozen Beyond Sausage, use your microwave to defrost gently first, don’t cook from frozen. To air fry Beyond Sausage: We used the COSORI to air fry this (affiliate link, we get a fee), always check your food with a good kitchen thermometer. First up I like to use a fat free cooking spray like Pam to coat the sausages.
What are the dangers of eating microwaved food?
With regard to the nutritional quality of food, it is important to note that any heating method can lead to the loss of heat-sensitive nutrients. This includes heating in the microwave, conventional oven or any other method. Apart from that, there is no scientific evidence to prove any other harm to health caused by the use of microwaves.
Can You reheat cooked sausage in a microwave?
Most the the microwave sausage cooker works best to reheat cooked sausage instead of raw uncooked ones. Microwave sausage cookers generally results in juicy and moist sausage with a much shorter cook time compared to stovetop or oven methods.
Can you eat cold cuts & sausages in the microwave?
The interesting thing about the 10 new Cold Cuts and Sausages by CP is that they’re packed in easily microwaveable bags. All you have to do is pop it in the microwave for a couple of minutes and your sausages will be ready to eat. You can choose to have the sausages as they are or make a sandwich out of the pre-sliced cold cuts.