Discover how long to cook sausage in the pressure cooker to ensure perfect flavor and texture. Check out tips, a practical recipe, and serving suggestions!
Introduction
Cooking sausage is an art, and the pressure cooker is a great ally for those seeking convenience and speed. But the question that always arises is: how long to cook sausage in the pressure cooker? The correct time is crucial to ensure the sausage is fully cooked, juicy inside and golden outside, without drying out or bursting. In this article, we will unravel this mystery, share a detailed recipe, and give valuable tips for you to prepare delicious sausages in the pressure cooker. Get ready to learn everything about cooking sausage in the pressure cooker and impress everyone with your culinary skills!
How Long to Cook Sausage in the Pressure Cooker?
O time to cook sausage in the pressure cooker can vary a bit depending on the type of sausage (fresh or pre-cooked), the size and thickness of the pieces, and even the brand of your pressure cooker. But, generally, we can use the following estimates:
- Fresh sausage (not pre-cooked): After the pressure cooker reaches maximum pressure (starts to whistle), count between 10 and 15 minutes of cooking.
- Pre-cooked sausage: Since these sausages have already gone through a previous cooking process, they need less time. After the cooker reaches pressure, count between 5 and 8 minutes.
Important tips:
- Always check the sausage packaging instructions: The manufacturer may indicate a specific cooking time for that product.
- Use a timer: To avoid overcooking and drying out the sausage, use a timer to control the time precisely.
- Pressure release: After the cooking time, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. This can take a few minutes. Never force open the cooker while there is still internal pressure.
Factors That Influence Cooking Time
Besides the type and size of the sausage, other factors can influence the cooking time in the pressure cooker:
- Stove power: More powerful stoves heat the cooker faster, which can slightly reduce cooking time.
- Amount of water: The amount of water used in the pressure cooker also affects the time. Usually, 1 cup of water is enough to generate the necessary steam.
- Altitude: At high altitudes, water boils at a lower temperature, which can increase cooking time.
- Pressure cooker model: Each pressure cooker has its particularities. Consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions.
Pressure Cooker Sausage Recipe
Now that you know how long to cook sausage in the pressure cooker, let’s move on to a simple and tasty recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of fresh Toscana sausage (or another of your preference)
- 1 large onion sliced into rings
- 2 cloves of garlic chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper sliced (optional)
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper sliced (optional)
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh herbs to taste (parsley and green onion)
Preparation Method:
- Pierce the sausages (optional): If desired, make small holes in the sausages with a fork or toothpick. This helps release excess fat and prevents them from bursting during cooking. (This step is optional as some people prefer not to pierce them to maintain internal juiciness).
- Heat the pressure cooker: Over medium heat, heat the olive oil (or oil) in the pressure cooker.
- Brown the sausages (optional): If desired, lightly brown the sausages in the pressure cooker, turning them to brown evenly. This helps seal the meat and add more flavor. Remove the sausages from the cooker and set aside. (This step is optional and depends on whether you prefer more or less browned sausage).
- Sauté the seasonings: In the same cooker, add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers (if using). Sauté over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sausages and water: Return the sausages to the pressure cooker (or add them if you did not brown before). Add the cup of water.
- Season: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that sausage is already seasoned, so be careful not to over-salt.
- Close the cooker and cook: Close the pressure cooker and place on high heat. Once it reaches pressure (starts whistling), reduce to medium-low heat and cook for 10 to 15 minutes (for fresh sausages) or 5 to 8 minutes (for pre-cooked sausages).
- Release the pressure: After the cooking time, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. This will take about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Open the cooker and check doneness: Carefully open the pressure cooker, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check if the sausages are fully cooked. If desired, you can brown them a bit more in a separate skillet over high heat for a few minutes.
- Finish and serve: Remove the sausages from the cooker, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs and serve immediately with your preferred sides.
Tips and Ways to Serve Pressure-Cooked Sausage
Here are some tips to make your pressure cooker sausage even tastier and suggestions on how to serve it:
- Do not pierce the sausages (if you prefer juicier): If you prefer juicier sausages, avoid piercing them before cooking. This helps retain the internal juices.
- Add other seasonings: Besides salt and pepper, you can add other seasonings to the sauté, such as sweet or spicy paprika, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, etc.
- Use broth instead of water: For a more intense flavor, replace water with vegetable, beef, or chicken broth.
- Wine or beer: Adding a bit of dry white wine or beer during cooking also gives the sausage a special flavor.
- Sauces: Serve the sausage with your preferred sauces, such as mustard and honey sauce, barbecue sauce, chimichurri, or a well-seasoned vinaigrette.
- Sides: White rice, beans, farofa, mashed potatoes, boiled manioc, polenta, green salad, breads, and vinaigrette are great options to accompany the sausage cooked in the pressure cooker.
- Sandwiches: Use the pressure-cooked sausage to make delicious sandwiches. Slice the sausages or split them in half and place them in breads, complementing with cheese, vinaigrette, and other ingredients of your preference.
- Pasta: Add the cooked and sliced sausage to a homemade tomato sauce and serve with pasta. A quick and tasty meal!
- Snack: Serve the pressure-cooked sausage as a snack, accompanied by breads, cheeses, and a cold beer.
- With vegetables: Cook vegetables along with the sausage in the pressure cooker, such as potatoes, carrots, parsnips, or cubed pumpkin; add them to the cooker along with the sausage and water.
Conclusion
Mastering the cooking time of sausage in the pressure cooker is essential to obtain a flavorful and juicy dish. With the tips and recipe we shared, you are ready to make delicious sausages quickly and conveniently. Remember to consider the type of sausage, the power of your stove, and the characteristics of your pressure cooker. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and sides to create your perfect version of pressure-cooked sausage. Now just get cooking and enjoy!
And you, have you already cooked sausage in the pressure cooker? Share your tips, questions, and suggestions in the comments!
Image Source: acasaencantada receitatodahora
