Uncover the truth: does johnsonville sausage have the secret casing ingredient?

Sausage enthusiasts, rejoice! One of the most pressing questions in the culinary world is finally being answered: does Johnsonville sausage have casing? In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the anatomy of Johnsonville sausage, examining its casing composition and unraveling the secrets that make this iconic brand a beloved choice among sausage connoisseurs.

What is Sausage Casing?

Before we dive into Johnsonville’s specific case, let’s first understand what sausage casing is. Sausage casing is a thin, edible membrane that encloses the sausage meat. It serves several purposes:

• Protection: Casings protect the delicate sausage meat from external contamination and moisture loss.
• Forming: They give the sausage its shape and prevent it from bursting during cooking.
• Flavor: Some casings, such as natural casings made from animal intestines, can impart subtle flavors to the sausage.

Johnsonville Sausage Casing: The Answer

Now, let’s address the burning question: does Johnsonville sausage have casing? The answer is yes. Johnsonville sausages are encased in a **cellulose casing**, which is a synthetic material made from plant fibers.

Why Cellulose Casing?

Johnsonville uses cellulose casing for several reasons:

• Consistency: Cellulose casings provide a consistent texture and appearance to the sausages.
• Transparency: They allow consumers to see the sausage meat inside, ensuring freshness and quality.
• Durability: Cellulose casings are strong and durable, preventing breakage during handling and cooking.
• Versatility: They can be used for a variety of sausage types, from breakfast links to bratwurst.

Types of Johnsonville Sausage Casing

Johnsonville offers a range of sausage products, each with its own unique casing type:

• Natural Casing: Some Johnsonville sausages, such as their fresh Italian sausage, are made with natural casings derived from animal intestines.
• Collagen Casing: Collagen casings are made from the protein collagen and are used in certain Johnsonville sausages, such as their summer sausage.
• Edible Film Casing: This type of casing is made from a thin, edible film and is found on some Johnsonville smoked sausages.

Removing Johnsonville Sausage Casing

Depending on your preference, you may choose to remove the casing from Johnsonville sausages before cooking. Here’s how:

• Slit and Peel: Use a sharp knife to make a small slit in the casing and gently peel it away from the sausage meat.
• Snip and Remove: Snip the casing at one end and use a fork to pull it off the sausage.
• Score and Peel: Score the casing lightly with a knife and then peel it off in strips.

Cooking Johnsonville Sausage with Casing

If you prefer to cook Johnsonville sausages with the casing intact, here are some tips:

• Prick the Casing: Use a fork or skewer to prick the casing in several places to prevent bursting.
• Grill or Pan-Fry: Grill or pan-fry the sausages over medium heat, turning occasionally.
• Bake or Roast: Place the sausages in a baking dish or on a sheet pan and bake or roast at the desired temperature.

Conclusion: Embracing the Casing

Whether you choose to remove the casing or cook it with the sausage, Johnsonville’s high-quality casings enhance the flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment of these beloved sausages. So, embrace the casing and indulge in the savory delights of Johnsonville, knowing that you’re not just eating sausage, but a culinary masterpiece wrapped in a protective and flavorful embrace.

FAQ

1. Is Johnsonville sausage casing edible?
Yes, the cellulose casing used by Johnsonville is edible.

2. Can I remove the casing from Johnsonville sausage?
Yes, you can remove the casing using the methods described in the blog post.

3. What is the difference between natural and cellulose casings?
Natural casings are derived from animal intestines, while cellulose casings are made from plant fibers.

4. Why do some Johnsonville sausages have different types of casing?
Johnsonville uses different types of casing depending on the sausage type and desired texture.

5. How do I cook Johnsonville sausage with the casing intact?
Prick the casing before cooking to prevent bursting and follow the cooking instructions provided in the blog post.