Alternative To Merguez Sausages | Ask Nigella.com (2024)

Full question

I would like to make the Simply Nigella Merguez Meatballs, however I cannot find any Merguez sausages in any local shops. Are there any alternatives?

Our answer

Nigella's Merguez Meatballs (from SIMPLY NIGELLA) are easy and quick to make as Nigella makes the meatballs from the filling of merguez sausages and the rich sauce from tomatoes and chargrilled peppers (roasted red peppers). Merguez sausages are spicy sausages that originally came from North Africa. They are usually made from lamb or beef and slightly spicy, being flavoured with a mixture of herbs, spices and also with the spicy chilli paste called harissa.

If you do not specifically need to stick with lamb or beef then you can choose a suitable pork sausage alternative from your local butcher or supermarket. Some sell sausages that are flavoured with smoked paprika (chorizo style sausage, though chorizo itself would probably be a little too rich) or with fennel and garlic. A more labour intensive alternative would be to use some ground or minced lamb and season it with salt, pepper plus cumin, fennel and paprika to your own taste. If you have some harissa then you could mix some of this in too, starting cautiously as it can be quite spicy. Fry a teaspoonful of the lamb mixture in a small frying pan to taste and see if the seasoning needs adjusting.

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Alternative To Merguez Sausages | Ask Nigella.com (2024)

FAQs

Alternative To Merguez Sausages | Ask Nigella.com? ›

A more labour intensive alternative would be to use some ground or minced lamb and season it with salt, pepper plus cumin, fennel and paprika to your own taste.

What kind of sausage is merguez? ›

Merguez (/mɛərˈɡɛz/) is a red, spicy lamb- or beef-based fresh sausage in Maghrebi cuisine. In France, merguez became popular in the 1960s and 1970s, as Algerian immigrants and the pieds-noirs of Algeria settled in the country and opened small shops and restaurants that served traditional dishes like merguez.

What is merguez in Arabic? ›

Moroccan Merguez (Mirqaz or mirkas), a delicious North African spicy sausage. Popular throughout the Middle East, Algeria, Tunisia and French cuisine. The name comes from the Arabic word "merga" which means "to mix". Merguez are usually served as an appetizer but they can be eaten as a main dish too.

Who invented merguez? ›

It would be the Alsatian settlers, very fond of sausages, settled northeast of Constantine who invented the merguez.

What is a merguez slang? ›

(slang) a car that has been modified—as by filing away its engine number, or including components from different cars—to make it harder to identify or to conceal damage from an accident.

Is merguez sausage French? ›

The merguez is a long, thin traditional hot and spiced lamb sausage originating from the Middle East and North Africa. This sausage is also popular in France for its intense spicing with harissa and toasted cumin and is traditionally cooked over coals to accentuate its smoky flavour.

What can I use instead of merguez sausages? ›

A more labour intensive alternative would be to use some ground or minced lamb and season it with salt, pepper plus cumin, fennel and paprika to your own taste. If you have some harissa then you could mix some of this in too, starting cautiously as it can be quite spicy.

Is merguez algerian or moroccan? ›

Merguez is a lamb- or beef-based sausage that is red in color and full of spices. Although of Tunisian and Algerian origin, spicy sausages are quite popular in Morocco. Some butchers boast their own signature merguez spice blend, while others prepare the sausages with a commercial mix instead.

What is a Toulouse style sausage? ›

Toulouse sausage is just the rather fancy French name given to our popular pork, red wine and garlic sausages. Originating from Toulouse itself, which is located in the south west of France, there are many variations on the 'Toulouse' sausage…but we like to think ours is one of the tastiest!

What to eat with merguez sausage? ›

They serve grilled merguez on a fresh baguette that has been smeared with a healthy dose of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise, and then right on top, a serving of French fries. The combination of spicy sausage and salty fries makes for an exciting sandwich, and is so popular that the French consider this sausage their own.

Can you put merguez sausage in the fridge? ›

Storing Merguez

If you purchase fresh merguez sausage, it's best to cook it the day you bring it home. If this isn't possible, store it in the fridge for at most a day before cooking.

How long to cook merguez? ›

Method
  1. Preheat a heavy based frying pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add a little light olive oil and fry the sausages for 5 to 6 minutes, turning frequently on all sides until rich and caramelized and the sausages thoroughly cooked.
  3. The sausages should be minimum core temperature of 75C before resting.

Why is merguez red? ›

Merguez's notable red shade is imparted by a key ingredient—harissa, a Moroccan seasoning paste made of hot chili peppers, cumin, caraway, and coriander.

What does merguez taste like? ›

This merguez happened to be one of my favorite sausage seasonings so far, combining spicy Moroccan harissa with earthy cumin and coriander, along with some fennel and paprika. The seasoning mixture was pungent with a strong spice, allowing it to stand up against the robust flavor of the lamb shoulder.

What is the difference between sausage and merguez? ›

Saucisses merguez are different from other sausages you might know due to the spicy flavor they have. They are also very thin compared to other sausages. The meat is mixed with spices and is usually eaten in a piece of bread with mustard (if you dare to put more spiciness) or ketchup.

What is the British term of endearment sausage? ›

Sausage is a playful term that reflects a sense of humour, silliness and loving affection. My son was always 'my little sausage' as a young boy. Name + Pops I had to include this as it was one of my favourite terms of endearment for my children when they were little.

What is breakfast sausage called in Germany? ›

Weisswurst. Easily distinguished from other wursts, this pure white wurst hails from Southern Germany and is made up of veal, bacon, onion, lemon, and spices. Weisswurst is boiled and eaten without the skin, usually at breakfast to help prepare for a day of drinking.

What is the history of merguez sausage? ›

The first available written recipe for merguez dates back to the 13th century, in an anonymous Hispano-Muslim cookery book. Merguez continued to gain popularity and in particular, was introduced to new peoples by the Bedouins, a regional nomadic population.

What do the French call sausages? ›

Saucissons is a type of thick, dry-cured sausage. It is usually made of pork but sometimes beef, mutton, venison or other meats. Saucissons are a popular snack in France, and they are mostly eaten when they are not fully cooked.

What kind of sausage is breakfast sausage? ›

Breakfast sausage (or country sausage) is a type of fresh sausage, typically made from pork, that is a common breakfast food in the United States.

What kind of sausage is Mcdonalds sausage? ›

Our sausage patties are made specifically for McDonald's to a special recipe using whole cuts of British RSPCA assured pork and sage seasoning.

What type of sausage is Mattessons? ›

Mattesons Smoked Pork sausage delivers a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Its rich, smoky taste is perfectly complemented by its juicy texture, making it a savory addition to any meal.

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