Merguez sausage, a staple of Algerian cuisine, is a spicy, flavorful sausage made from ground lamb or beef and a blend of North African spices. Originating in the Maghreb region, it reflects centuries of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary influences. Enjoyed grilled, pan-fried, or in traditional dishes with couscous, Merguez offers a taste of Algeria's rich gastronomic heritage.

Ingredients:

For the Merguez Spice Blend:

• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Sausage:

• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef (or a combination of both)
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Natural sausage casings, soaked in warm water

Instructions:

Prepare the Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine all the spices listed under the "Merguez Spice Blend" section. Mix them thoroughly to create your custom spice mix.

Mix the Sausage Meat: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, minced garlic, and olive oil. Stir in the spice blend, chopped cilantro or parsley, and salt. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.

Prepare the Sausage Casings: Rinse the natural sausage casings under running water to remove any excess salt. Soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to make them pliable. After soaking, gently rinse them again and then gently squeeze out any excess water.

Assemble the Sausages: Using a sausage stuffer or a funnel, carefully stuff the meat mixture into the prepared casings. Be sure to leave some space for expansion and tying at the ends. Twist the sausages into desired lengths (typically 4-6 inches) and tie the ends with kitchen twine.

Rest the Sausages: Allow the sausages to rest in the refrigerator for at least a few hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and develop.

Cooking Merguez Sausages: There are several ways to cook Merguez sausages. You can grill them, pan-fry them, or roast them in the oven until they are cooked through and have a nice sear. Cooking time may vary, but typically, it takes about 15-20 minutes at medium heat.

Serve: Serve your homemade Merguez sausages with couscous, flatbreads, and a side of harissa sauce for an authentic Algerian meal.

Now you can enjoy the bold, spicy, and flavorful Merguez sausages right in the comfort of your own kitchen, bringing a taste of Algeria to your table.

Nutritional values

Nutritional values for the ingredients in the Homemade Merguez Sausage recipe can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use. Below are approximate nutritional values for some of the key ingredients in the recipe. Keep in mind that these values can change depending on factors like the type of meat (lamb, beef, or a combination), the fat content, and the serving sizes.

Ground Lamb or Beef (1 lb):

• Calories: Approximately 1,100 to 1,400 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 90 to 120 grams
• Total Fat: Approximately 80 to 110 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Depending on the fat content, it can have varying amounts of saturated fat.

benefit: Good source of protein and various nutrients like iron and zinc.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: Approximately 240 kcal
• Total Fat: Approximately 28 grams
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams

benefit: Rich in monounsaturated fats, may reduce heart disease risk.

Garlic (2-3 cloves):

• Calories: Approximately 10 to 15 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 2 to 3 grams
• Fiber: Approximately 0.1 to 0.2 grams
• Protein: Approximately 0.5 to 1 gram

benefit: Contains compounds with potent medicinal properties, may boost immune system.

Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (1/4 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 1 to 2 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.2 to 0.4 grams
• Fiber: Approximately 0.1 to 0.2 grams
• Protein: Approximately 0.1 to 0.2 grams
• Vitamins and minerals (such as vitamin K and vitamin A)

benefit: Contains vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants.

Sausage Casings (varies based on use):

• Sausage casings themselves are typically very low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. Their nutritional impact is mainly related to the sausages' contents.

benefit: Provide a casing for the sausage and can be a source of collagen.

Spices (Merguez Spice Blend):

• The spices used in the blend typically have minimal caloric value, but they add flavor and some nutritional benefits in terms of antioxidants and potential health benefits.

benefit:

1. Ground cumin: Rich in antioxidants, may aid digestion.
2. Ground coriander: Contains antioxidants and may help lower blood sugar levels.
3. Paprika: Good source of vitamin A and antioxidants.
4. Cayenne pepper: Contains capsaicin, which may reduce appetite and boost metabolism.
5. Ground fennel seeds: May help with digestion and provide antioxidants.
6. Ground cinnamon: May lower blood sugar levels and reduce heart disease risk.
7. Ground allspice: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Ground cloves: Rich in antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
9. Ground black pepper: Contains piperine, which may improve digestion and increase nutrient absorption.
10. Ground cardamom: May help with digestion and contain antioxidants.
11. Ground nutmeg: Contains antioxidants and may have antibacterial properties.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary significantly based on the specific brands and cuts of meat you use, as well as any variations in the recipe. It's essential to check the nutrition labels on the specific products you use for the most accurate information, especially if you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns.