Cooking smoked sausage in the microwave is a quick, convenient way to enjoy the flavorful treat without spending hours preparing it in the kitchen. Cooking sausage in the microwave is also a great way to preserve its freshness and keep it from spoiling. Before you start, it’s important to know some basics of cooking smoked sausage in the microwave so you get the best results.
Preparing the Sausage for Cooking
Before you start cooking, you need to prepare the sausage for cooking. Most brands of smoked sausage come pre-cooked, so it’s important to make sure your sausage is thoroughly cooked before eating. Most smoked sausage should be heated until it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. To do this, you’ll need a food thermometer.
In some cases, you may need to defrost your smoked sausage before cooking. In this case, it’s best to allow the sausage to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Never defrost frozen sausage on the counter or in hot water, as this can cause bacteria to grow.
When you are ready to cook the sausage, you can either grill, pan-fry, or bake it. If you are grilling, make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the sausage for about 10 minutes, flipping it occasionally. If you are pan-frying, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the sausage for about 8 minutes, flipping it occasionally. If you are baking, preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the sausage for about 15 minutes, flipping it halfway through.
What You Need for Microwave Cooking
Before you start cooking in the microwave, you’ll need a few items. First, you’ll need a microwave-safe plate or baking dish. Never microwave sausage directly on foil or plastic wrap, as this can cause a potential fire hazard. You’ll also need wax paper for easy clean up and to prevent splatters.
Next, you’ll need a way to turn the sausage while it’s cooking. A wooden spoon is a good option, as metal utensils can leave scratches on the interior of your microwave. Finally, you’ll need something to prick the sausage with before cooking.
The Best Way to Cook Smoked Sausage
Once your sausage is ready, it’s time to cook. Place your sausage on the microwave-safe plate and sprinkle with a tablespoon of water. Use a fork or knife to prick holes on both sides of the sausage, so that steam can escape during cooking. Wrap your plate with wax paper and place it in the microwave.
Set your microwave on high and cook for one minute. Then reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for two minutes. Using tongs, carefully turn the sausage over and cook for an additional two minutes on medium heat.
Safety Tips for Microwave Cooking
Cooking sausage in the microwave is not as complicated as it may seem. However, there are some safety measures you should take before and during cooking. Always handle hot items with oven mitts or tongs to avoid burns and other injuries. Also, be sure to use the lowest setting on your microwave when cooking.
Tips for Reheating Leftover Smoked Sausage
Reheating cooked sausage in the microwave is a fast and easy way to enjoy leftovers. To reheat your cooked smoked sausage, place it on a folded piece of paper towel or waxed paper and microwave on high for 45 seconds. Then turn your sausage over and cook on medium heat until heated through. Remember that reheating food in the microwave can cause bacteria to grow, so consume all leftover foods as soon as possible.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with Microwave Cooking
Cooking smoked sausage in the microwave can present some difficulties because it is so easy to overcook or burn your food. If your smoked sausage is not as juicy and tender as it usually tastes after cooking, it may have been overcooked. To prevent this from happening, always adhere to the cooking times and temperatures suggested.
Another common problem when cooking in the microwave is uneven heating. To avoid this, make sure you evenly space any remaining items when microwaving and turn them over about halfway through cooking time. If you don’t have enough space in your oven for all your food, consider using two separate dishes or using a larger plate.
Adding Flavor to Microwave-Cooked Sausage
In addition to regular spices like pepper and garlic powder, there are several ways to add flavor to your microwaved smoked sausage. brushing a thin layer of olive oil on your sausages before microwaving will add flavor and promote browning. You can also cook the sausages in some broth or add a few tablespoons of beer or wine to the dish when microwaving.
Serving Suggestions for Cooked Smoked Sausage
Cooked smoked sausages can be enjoyed on their own or served with grilled vegetables, potatoes, and other sides. Wrapping cooked sausages in soft tortillas with grilled vegetables and a dab of salsa makes for a flavorful and delicious taco. To round out a meal, try adding cooked smoked sausage to soups or salads.
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