How to Cook Chinese Sausage

Have you ever tried Chinese sausage? It's a unique delicacy from China with a distinctive flavor. Every year, I make sure to bring some back from China to make it myself. Chinese sausage has a rich aroma and a unique texture—slightly chewy with a touch of savory richness from the fat. It's truly unforgettable.

This sausage recipe is incredibly simple and can be ready in just 20 minutes, with a fantastic flavor! Once you master it, your family will surely praise you as a great chef. I'll provide detailed instructions and tips to ensure you easily perfect this dish.

1. About Chinese Sausage

Chinese sausage is a traditional food preservation method that involves grinding meat into a paste, stuffing it into casings, and shaping it into long cylindrical forms. Typically made from meat, the sausage is diced, mixed with seasonings, and then stuffed into natural casings before being fermented and dried. It is one of the most diverse types of meat products in China.

With a history dating back to the Northern and Southern Dynasties, Chinese sausage was first recorded in the "Qimin Yaoshu" from the Northern Wei Dynasty, and the tradition continues today.

Chinese sausage can be prepared in various ways, including steaming, stir-frying, pan-frying, and boiling. Depending on personal taste and preference, you can try different cooking methods to create unique culinary experiences.

2. Where to Buy Chinese Sausage

You can purchase Chinese sausage through the following options:

Asian or Chinese Supermarkets: Many Asian or Chinese supermarkets carry Chinese sausage. You can search online or in local Asian communities to find the nearest supermarket that stocks it.

Online Shopping: Many online retailers offer international shipping, allowing you to buy Chinese sausage over the internet. Major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay also have vendors that sell Chinese food products.

Local Butcher Shops or Delis: Some local butcher shops or delis might carry Chinese sausage. You can check local directories or forums to find nearby stores that sell Chinese foods.

Homemade: If you're interested in cooking, you might also try making your own Chinese sausage. You can find recipes and instructions online, purchase the necessary ingredients, and follow the steps to make it yourself. Although it may be a bit more involved, it can be a fun and rewarding process.

3. How to Prepare Chinese Sausage

Chinese sausage is a cured product, and proper handling is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Start by preparing the desired amount of sausage and cutting it into small pieces. Next, place the cut sausage in a bowl and pour in enough warm or hot water to clean it.

Using cold water for cleaning may cause the fat on the sausage's surface to transfer to your hands, making it difficult to clean thoroughly. Therefore, it's important to use hot water to ensure the sausage is properly cleaned.

4. How to Store Chinese Sausage

There are several methods for storing Chinese sausage, depending on how long you plan to keep it:

Refrigeration: If you plan to use the sausage within a few weeks, store it in the refrigerator. Place the sausage in a sealed bag or airtight container to prevent air and moisture from affecting its taste and quality.

Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the sausage. Wrap it first in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a sealed bag or airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator or use it directly in cooking.

Dry Storage: For sausages that are already dried and have less fat, you can hang them in a cool, dry place. Ensure the sausage does not come into contact with moisture to prevent mold growth. This method is usually suitable for fully cured sausages.

Avoid Heat and Humidity: Regardless of the storage method, keep the sausage away from high temperatures and humidity to prevent spoilage or mold.

5. Ingredients

Chinese sausage

Serrano peppers

Red bell peppers

Soy sauce

Important Note: Chinese sausage is already seasoned with a variety of spices during its production, so no additional spices are needed when stir-frying.

6. What to Pair with Chinese Sausage

Chinese sausage pairs well with rice, making it a great addition to your meal. If you find plain rice too simple, you can also enjoy it with fried rice, stir-fried noodles, or other dishes for added variety.

7. More Delicious Chinese Recipes

Easy Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe

Braised Lion's Head (Shi Zi Tou) Recipe

Easy Braised Tofu Recipe

Easy Peking Duck Recipe

I hope you now have a comprehensive understanding of Chinese sausage. Below is a detailed tutorial on stir-frying Chinese sausage. If you like our recipes, please follow us for more delicious content.