This fun dish combines pickled summer sausage and creamy mustard eggs for a tasty treat! Perfect for picnics or as a zesty snack, it’s quick and easy to make.
I love how the flavors come together in this dish. It’s great for sharing, but I won’t judge if you keep it all to yourself! 😄 Pair it with crackers for a simple snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Summer Sausage: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find summer sausage, feel free to use any smoked sausage or even pepperoni. Each will give a unique flavor, but I love the classic taste of summer sausage.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These provide a creamy texture. If you’re looking for something different, try using pickled quail eggs for a fun twist! Just keep in mind they need to be boiled and peeled too.
Vinegar: White vinegar is the go-to here, thanks to its strong acidity. If you want a slightly milder flavor, you can replace it with apple cider vinegar. It adds a touch of sweetness, which is nice.
Mustard Seeds: Yellow mustard seeds are used for their crunch and flavor. If you can’t find them, mustard powder can be a temporary substitute. Just reduce the quantity to 1 teaspoon; it will adjust the texture slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Eggs and Sausage Are Fully Pickled?
The key to thick, flavorful pickling is making sure everything is fully submerged in the brine. Here’s how to achieve that:
- After layering the eggs and sausage in the jar, pack them tightly to limit air pockets—this helps with brining.
- When pouring the cooled brine, gently tap the jar to release any bubbles trapped under the sausage or eggs.
- If needed, use a piece of plastic wrap or a small weight to hold down the ingredients and keep them submerged.
- Store in the fridge for at least one day before sampling; the more time in the brine, the better the flavor!
Enjoy making this tasty treat—the combination is sure to impress friends and family!
Easy Pickled Summer Sausage with Mustard Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickling Brine:
- 3 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
For the Main Ingredients:
- 12 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
- 1 pound summer sausage, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
For the Flavorings:
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 teaspoons black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons dried dill or 4 sprigs fresh dill
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard (preferably whole grain or spicy brown)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of prep time. However, you should plan to refrigerate the mixture for at least 24 hours before enjoying it, so allow time for chilling. The flavors develop even more beautifully after 2-3 days. Best of all, it keeps well in the refrigerator!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pickling Brine:
In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. This brine is the secret to that delicious flavor!
2. Layering the Ingredients:
In a clean large jar, or several smaller jars, begin by layering the peeled hard-boiled eggs at the bottom. Add the sliced summer sausage on top of the eggs, arranging them to fit snugly.
3. Adding Flavorings:
Next, sprinkle the yellow mustard seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and dill into the jar. Feel free to adjust the amounts of spices based on your taste preferences!
4. Mixing in Mustard:
Now, spoon the yellow mustard evenly over the layered eggs and sausage. This adds a delicious tangy flavor that complements the pickling process!
5. Pouring the Pickling Brine:
Carefully pour the cooled pickling brine over the eggs and sausage until everything is fully submerged. It’s important to cover all the ingredients to ensure they pickled properly. Seal the jars tightly.
6. Chilling the Mixture:
Refrigerate the jar for at least 24 hours. If you can wait longer—2-3 days is even better—the flavors will meld and create a tastier treat!
7. Serving Suggestions:
When you’re ready to serve, enjoy the pickled summer sausage and mustard eggs chilled straight from the jar, or slice them and serve on crackers for a tangy, savory snack. Prepare for compliments!
With this recipe, you’ll be enjoying a vibrant, tangy bite that brings together the flavors of smoky sausage and creamy mustard eggs. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
FAQ for Easy Pickled Summer Sausage with Mustard Eggs
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While summer sausage is traditional, you can substitute it with any smoked sausage or even pepperoni for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that each type may alter the flavor slightly!
How Long Do the Pickled Eggs and Sausage Last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the pickled eggs and sausage can last for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re fully submerged in the brine to maintain their freshness!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, you can customize the spice level! Increase the crushed red pepper flakes for more heat, or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also add extra mustard seeds for a little crunch without the spice.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time for a Party?
Definitely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it at least 24 hours in advance, but allowing it to sit for 2-3 days really enhances the flavors. It’s ready to impress when your gathering arrives!
