Penrose Pickled Sausage Recipe

That vinegary, spicy snap of a Penrose-style pickled sausage is impossible to forget!

Getting the brine right is everything, and a mix of vinegar, salt, and spices brings it all together.

A touch of garlic and mustard seed adds complexity, while red pepper flakes bring just the right heat.

I often use smoked sausage instead of fresh adds a layer of richness that makes a big difference.

Sealing the jar tightly and letting it sit in the fridge for a full week is worth the wait.

If you like extra spice, adding sliced jalapeños to the jar gives a nice kick to every bite.

These sausages make a great snack, especially with an ice-cold drink on the side!

How to Make Penrose Pickled Sausage

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. Smoked Sausage
• 2 cups White Vinegar
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 1 tbsp Crushed Red Pepper
• 1 tbsp Black Peppercorns
• 2 tbsp Pickling Spice
• 4 cloves Garlic (peeled)
• 5 Jalapeño Peppers (sliced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Slice your smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.

Pack them tightly into a large glass jar.

Add sliced jalapeños evenly throughout the jar.

Step 2:

In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, and sugar.

Stir well over medium heat until sugar completely dissolves.

Step 3:

Add crushed red pepper, black peppercorns, and pickling spice to the mixture.

Toss in the garlic cloves for extra flavor.

Stir occasionally until the mixture begins to boil.

Step 4:

Once boiling, carefully pour the hot liquid over the sausages and jalapeños in the jar.

Make sure everything gets evenly submerged in the brine.

Seal the jar tightly once full.

Step 5:

Let the jar cool to room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least three days to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve and enjoy your pickled sausages!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Always use fresh sausage and jalapeños to get the best flavor in your pickled sausages.

Fresh ingredients will give a brighter taste and make a huge difference in the final product.

Adjust the Heat

If you love spicy food, consider adding some extra crushed red pepper for an additional kick of heat.

On the other hand, reduce or skip the jalapeños if you prefer a milder version of this recipe.

Experiment with Spices

Feel free to experiment with different pickling spices to create a unique blend that suits your taste preferences.

You don’t have to stick exactly with the spices listed; personalizing it can be fun!

Storage Tips

Store the sealed jar in a cool, dark place, ideally in the refrigerator, to keep your pickled sausages fresh.

The pickled sausages should last for several weeks if kept in proper conditions.

Give It More Time

While three days is the minimum, leaving the sausages for a week can intensify their flavor even more.

Patience pays off in terms of taste when it comes to pickling.

What to Serve with Penrose Pickled Sausage

Crunchy Breadsticks

A crispy breadstick is always a good pairing for pickled sausages.

Their crunch complements the tangy flavor of the sausage perfectly, adding a nice texture contrast to your snack.

You can also go for some garlic knots or buttered rolls if you want something similar but with a twist!

Fresh Vegetable Platter

A fresh vegetable platter can be a great accompaniment to your Penrose pickled sausage.

Try it with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and carrot sticks for a refreshing balance.

Cheese Board

Now, let’s talk cheese!

A lovely variety of cheeses can create an exciting board that pairs fantastically with pickled sausage.

Think sharp cheddar or a creamy brie, which offer interesting flavors that enhance the sausage’s tang.

Spicy Roasted Nuts

How about a bit of spice to spice things up?

You can serve some spicy roasted nuts for extra zing.

This combination of flavors adds an exciting flair to the dish, with the heat working well with the sausage’s brine.

Grilled Pineapple

And here’s a fun one!

Grilled pineapple offers a sweet contrast to the salty, tangy sausage.

The caramelized sugars from grilling add another flavor dimension, making each bite balanced and exciting.

It’s an unexpected yet delicious pairing!

Variations and Substitutions

Spice Level

You can easily adjust the spice level by swapping different types of peppers or chiles.

Try using ghost peppers for a fiery kick if you’re in the mood for something extra hot.

Sausage Type

The type of sausage is crucial to get the flavor just right.

If you can’t find the classic smoked sausage, feel free to use any fully cooked smoked variety available at your local grocery store.

Vinegar Options

Vinegar adds that quintessential tang, but you have options.

Feel free to experiment with white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even malt vinegar to find your perfect flavor.

Onion Choice

Yellow onions offer a subtle flavor, but sweet onions can add a nice touch if you prefer something milder in taste.

They’re a great alternative for those who enjoy a sweeter taste without changing the recipe dramatically.

Herb Adjustments

Mixing up the herbs can breathe new life into the dish.

Try adding bay leaves, black peppercorns, or dill seeds for extra depth in flavor.

Feel free to make this recipe your own by getting creative with your ingredient choices!

How to Store Leftover Penrose Pickled Sausage

Refrigeration is necessary to keep your Penrose pickled sausage fresh and safe to eat.

Transferring the sausages to an airtight container before placing them in the fridge helps preserve their unique flavor.

Make sure your container is clean and dry before filling it.

Storing Tips

To maximize freshness, keep any leftover pickled sausages away from the fridge door, where temperature fluctuations occur.

I suggest storing them on a middle shelf where temperatures remain consistent.

If you prefer, you can leave the sausages submerged in their vinegar mixture, which has already been boiled and seasoned.

Shelf Life

I like to finish up any leftover sausages within two weeks to enjoy them at their best.

Keep an eye out for any changes in smell or texture that might indicate spoilage.

Transporting Leftovers

If you’re transporting these delicious sausages for a picnic or a road trip, use a cooler with ice packs.

It’s important that they stay below 40°F to prevent any bacterial growth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping Proper Ventilation

Please remember to cook in a well-ventilated area to avoid overpowering aromas throughout your home.

The fumes can become quite strong, especially when boiling vinegar for the brine.

So, crack open a window or turn on the hood vent while simmering.

Ignoring Fat in Jar

Don’t worry if you see a layer of fat when you first open your jar of sausages.

It’s totally normal and perfectly safe.

You can just scoop it off before serving!

Incorrect Storage

After opening your sausage jar, always refrigerate it to keep them fresh and tasty.

Fridge storage will help maintain that delicious pickled flavor for up to two weeks.

Skipping this step can lead to spoilage, which you don’t want.