This is a repost, but my feelings are still the same:
My favorite sausage recipe to date. Found the recipe in a Field & Stream magazine at the dentist office and it looked simple and different and extremely flavorful. It's versatile! Good by itself, on a bun w/peppers and onions, any Italian dish, breakfast scramble on pizza, etc. It doesn't disappoint!
Merguez
Merguez is a fiery red lamb sausage from North Africa and this recipe uses wild game and store bought hot Italian sausage.
• 1 lb. venison
• 1 lb. hot Italian sausage
• 2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1⁄8 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 11⁄2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 2 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
• Sheep or hog casings
• Harissa, for serving (optional)
1) Cut the venison into small strips or chunks. Chill the venison, the grinder parts, and the mixing bowl for about 30 minutes in the freezer. Then grind the venison through a 1⁄4‑inch die and refrigerate.
2) Remove the Italian sausage from the casings. Discard the casings. Combine the venison and the Italian sausage filling with the cumin, -paprika, cayenne, salt, garlic, and cilantro.
3) Knead the mixture with your very clean hands to incorporate the spices and fully blend the meats. Refrigerate until ready to stuff.
4) Stuff into rinsed casings, forming links as desired. Allow the sausages to dry on a rack in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
5) These sausages are best cooked over a hot grill. As with all venison sausages, take care not to overcook. Serve with the harissa on the side. Makes about 2lbs.