Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage Pressure Cooker Style

How to make Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage Pressure Cooker Style

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you prepare a dish that’s both savory and aromatic. This Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage is an excellent choice, bringing together the richness of roasted garlic with the tangy feta cheese, all made conveniently in a pressure cooker. Below you’ll find the ingredients and step-by-step directions that will guide you in making this delicious recipe.

Ingredients

• 3 Heads of garlic (small, for rich roasted flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil (to roast the garlic)
• 4 pounds Chicken thighs (skin on, boneless, cubed)
• 10 ounces Feta cheese (crumbled and divided)
• 1/4 cup Shallots (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh oregano (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar (chilled)
• 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (chilled, from fresh lemons)
• Natural hog casings (soaked in lukewarm water for 30 minutes)

Directions

1. Roast the Garlic: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the tops off the heads of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in foil. Roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, until soft and golden. Allow it to cool before squeezing out the roasted garlic cloves.

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped shallots, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly. Then, add the roasted garlic and incorporate it into the mixture by mashing it gently into the chicken.

3. Prepare the Casings: Rinse the soaked natural hog casings under cold water to clean them. Slide one end of a casing onto a sausage stuffer and push it along the tube until the casing is fully on. Tie a knot at the open end to secure it.

4. Stuff the Sausages: Gently fill the casing with the chicken and feta mixture, avoiding overstuffing. Depending on your preferences, you can twist the sausages into links or leave them long. Tie off the other end meticulously.

5. Pressure Cooking: Place the sausages in the pressure cooker. Add 1/2 cup of water, then secure the lid. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once done, do a quick release of the pressure.

6. Add Finishing Touches: After releasing the pressure, remove the sausages carefully. Drizzle with red wine vinegar and lemon juice for added flavor before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage

This Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage is truly a special dish. The combination of roasted garlic brings out a rich flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the saltiness of the feta cheese. The chicken is moist and tender, providing a wholesome and filling meal. Also, using a pressure cooker means that you don’t have to stand by the stove for long, making it a quick and convenient recipe for any night of the week.

Nutriment Benefits

This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs are high in protein and provide essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. Garlic is known for its health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system. Feta cheese offers calcium and probiotics which contribute to bone health and gut function. Using fresh herbs adds flavor without extra calories or sodium, making this dish an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals.

What to Serve With Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage

This delicious sausage pairs well with many sides. Here are a few suggestions:

| Side Dish | Description |
|—————————|————————————————-|
| Grilled Vegetables | A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a colorful contrast. |
| Couscous or Quinoa | These grains add a nutty flavor and are filling without being too heavy. |
| Greek Salad | A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta to complement the sausage. |
| Crusty Bread | Perfect for soaking up any juices or sauces. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy potatoes create a comforting meal alongside the sausage. |

How to Store Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage

To store your leftovers, let the sausages cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each sausage individually and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen sausages can last up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them properly before reheating.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overstuffing the Casings: Make sure not to overstuff the hog casings. This can cause them to burst during cooking. Keep a good balance.

2. Cleaning Casings Thoroughly: Ensure that you clean the hog casings very well before use. This will help in avoiding any unwanted flavors.

3. Monitor Cooking Time: If your pressure cooker has different settings, make sure to use the correct one to avoid undercooked or overcooked sausages.

4. Using Fresh Ingredients: For best results, always use fresh herbs and high-quality feta cheese.

5. Taste Test Before Stuffing: Before stuffing the sausages, taste the mixture to ensure the seasoning is to your liking.

Variation

If feta isn’t available, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with additional spices or herbs like thyme or parsley to mix things up. For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! You can use turkey or even pork, depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, particularly with pork.

2. Is it necessary to roast the garlic?
While you can use raw garlic, roasting it offers a sweeter, more mellow flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to stuff it into casings and cook it on the day you plan to serve it.

With these straightforward steps and tips, making Roasted Garlic and Feta Chicken Sausage in the pressure cooker can be an enjoyable experience that yields delightful results. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and savor this flavorful dish any day of the week!