1st Smoke - Dumb Question but here goes....

[gonzo]

Almost hesitate asking, because it sounds dumb, but I just finished my first venison sausage smoke (15 lbs) using one of those popular sausage kits from Gander Mtn, and I used the cure from the kit along with their seasoning packet. It's currently blooming on the counter right now then will go into the fridge after a couple hours. 

My question is, I would like to sample some tonight on the grill, but I have read numerous posts about putting smoked sausage in the fridge or freezer overnight before eating. Is that recommended to enhance the taste or is it OK (i.e. safe and flavorful) to grill tonight? Thanks in advance.

 

[smokinhusker]

No question is a dumb question, so ask away anytime! 

Letting it bloom or rest in the fridge lets the smoke and other flavors "mellow and marry together". There's no written or unwritten rule that you can't grill some up and try it. Just keep in mind what you eat tonight may not taste the same as the sausage that has mellowed for a while.

 

[boykjo]

Hey gonzo... Sure you can taste it.. Its ready as soon as it reaches a safe internal temp of 160........ with it cured and cooked/smoked you can eat it cold or hot....... sample away. Sausage is always better the next day after it has found the love........
 

 

[themule69]

As said above. Eat away. It will get better with time. If it is bitter now. It will mellow.

Happy smoken.

David

Now I have to say

 

[gonzo]

Sounds good! Firing up the grill now.Thanks!!