Andouille Sausage

Andouille sausage is a coarse-grained, smoked pork sausage with a rich history rooted in French cuisine, particularly from the Alsace region. It was adapted in Louisiana, where it became a staple in Cajun and Creole cooking. The sausage is known for its robust, smoky flavor with hints of garlic, pepper, and other spices, creating a spicy and savory profile. Its texture is firm yet slightly chewy, making it a hearty addition to dishes. When cooked, andouille sausage maintains its shape well and infuses dishes with its distinctive smoky essence, enhancing stews, soups, and rice dishes.

Notes

When selecting andouille sausage, look for links with a reddish-brown color indicating good smoking. Authentic versions are made from pork, so ensure to check for any dietary concerns, particularly for those avoiding pork or managing allergies to common sausage ingredients. Store uncooked sausage in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage. To prepare, it’s often best to slice the sausage to release its flavorful oils during cooking.

Uses

Gumbo base ingredient
Jambalaya essential component
Paella smoky twist
Bean and sausage soup
Pizza topping option
Pasta sauce enhancer
Charcuterie board feature

Replacements

Chorizo for similar spice
Kielbasa for smoky flavor
Smoked sausage for texture
Italian sausage for versatility
Merguez for North African flair

Doenjang (Korean Soybean Paste)

Doenjang is a traditional Korean fermented soybean paste that serves as a foundational ingredient in many Korean dishes. Originating from Korea, it has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries, prized for its deep umami flavor and rich, savory profile. The paste boasts a complex taste with earthy, salty, and slightly sweet notes, often accompanied by a subtle tanginess from fermentation. Its thick, paste-like texture is smooth yet dense, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. In cooking, doenjang dissolves easily into liquids, creating a robust base for stews and soups, and it contributes a deep savoriness that enhances other flavors. Its fermentation process also allows it to act as a natural preservative, making it a versatile pantry item.

Onion Powder

Onion powder delivers a concentrated, savory flavor with a mild sweetness and a hint of earthiness, reminiscent of caramelized onions. Its aroma is pungent yet inviting, evoking the comforting scent of a home kitchen. Finely ground, it has a smooth, almost silky texture that disperses effortlessly into dishes. Originating from dehydrated onions, it's a staple in many cuisines, prized for its ability to enhance flavor without adding moisture. Its convenience and long shelf life make it indispensable in countless recipes.

Recipes to try

Maple Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Biscuits

Golden, flaky biscuits stuffed with savory maple sausage and melted sharp cheddar—it's a hearty breakfast hug in every bite.

Smoky Black Bean and Corn Soup with Lime

This soup is a tangy, smoky hug in a bowl, with the fresh zing of lime cutting through rich black beans and sweet corn.