How to Deep Fry Smoked Sausage for Maximum Flavor and Crunch

Deep frying smoked sausage takes the already incredible flavors to new heights. The high heat helps seal in the juices and seasoning, while the oil crisps the exterior for an irresistible crunch. With a few simple techniques, you can easily achieve restaurant-quality deep fried smoked sausage at home.

Why Deep Fry Smoked Sausage

There are a few key reasons why deep frying is a great cooking method for smoked sausage

• Texture – Deep frying gives the sausage an incredibly crispy, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This contrast is what makes the sausage go from great to irresistible.

• Intensified Flavor – The high heat of deep frying helps concentrate the smoky, seasoned flavors of the sausage, making them come through prominently in each bite.

• Quick Cooking – Deep frying cooks the sausage rapidly by surrounding it in hot oil. Smoked sausage reaches the ideal doneness in just minutes.

• Versatility – Deep fried smoked sausage can be used in many ways – on its own, in sandwiches, chopped up in salads and pastas, and more.

Tips for Deep Frying Smoked Sausage

Follow these tips for the best deep fried smoked sausage:

• Use good quality sausage – Choose sausages with natural casings and well-balanced smoky flavor. Avoid those with lots of fillers.

• Pat dry thoroughly – Blot sausages with paper towels to remove exterior moisture so the coating crisps up.

• Use a thermometer – Heat oil between 350-375°F and use a deep fry thermometer to maintain proper temperature.

• Fry in small batches – Do not crowd the pan. Fry sausages in batches for even cooking.

• Turn frequently – Use tongs to gently turn the sausages as they fry until golden brown all over.

• Don’t pierce – Resist poking sausages with a fork as this causes juices to leak out.

• Drain on paper towels – Drain fried sausages on paper towels to soak up excess grease.

• Let rest before serving – Allow sausages to rest 3-5 minutes after frying so flavors can settle.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for perfect deep fried smoked sausage:

1. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Use a deep fryer or a heavy pot with at least 4 inches of high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil.

2. Heat the Oil

Heat oil to 350-375°F. Use a deep fry thermometer and maintain this heat while cooking.

3. Dry Sausages Thoroughly

Blot sausages dry with paper towels to remove exterior moisture.

4. Carefully Add Sausages

Gently lower sausages into the hot oil in small batches using tongs. Don’t overcrowd.

5. Fry Until Golden Brown

Fry for 6-8 minutes, turning frequently, until evenly golden brown. Monitor for doneness.

6. Drain on Paper Towels

Remove cooked sausages and drain on paper towel-lined plate for 1-2 minutes.

7. Let Rest and Serve

Let fried sausages rest for 3-5 minutes before serving so flavors settle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you deep fry smoked sausage from frozen?

It’s best not to deep fry frozen sausage. Completely thaw in the fridge first for food safety and even cooking.

What temperature should you deep fry smoked sausage?

Heat oil to 350-375°F. Maintain this heat while cooking using a thermometer for accuracy.

How long do you fry smoked sausage?

Fry for 6-8 minutes, turning frequently, until evenly golden brown and cooked through. Cook times vary by size.

What is the best oil for deep frying smoked sausage?

Use high smoke point neutral oils like canola, vegetable, peanut or avocado oil. Avoid olive oil as it can burn.

Should you prick sausage before frying?

Do not prick or pierce sausages as this causes juices to leak out, resulting in a drier sausage.

Cooking Ideas

Deep fried smoked sausage is extremely versatile. Enjoy it:

• On a bun with mustard, ketchup, relish, etc.

• Chopped up in pasta, potato salad, coleslaw

• Diced in scrambled eggs, omelets, breakfast hash

• On top of salads, pizza, nachos

• As an appetizer with assorted dipping sauces

• In bao buns or tacos for fun fusions

So get out your best smoked sausages and heat up that oil. With these simple tips, you’ll be enjoying restaurant-quality deep fried smoked sausage in no time!