Maryland Eastern Shore Duck Sausage on the Grill

Introduction

Get ready to experience the rich, flavorful taste of Maryland’s Eastern Shore with this homemade duck sausage recipe. Cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this dish delivers a crispy, juicy bite that captures the essence of open-fire grilling. By searing the duck sausage at 1,000°F on the center grill grate and then using the flat griddle cooktop for even doneness, you’ll achieve a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Follow this step-by-step guide to elevate your outdoor grilling game.

Ingredients

• 2 lb duck meat (breast and thigh), finely ground
• 1/2 lb duck fat, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ice-cold water
• Natural hog casings, soaked and rinsed
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oil-soaked napkins in the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Duck Sausage

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground duck meat, duck fat, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, thyme, and brown sugar.
2. Gradually mix in the ice-cold water to ensure moisture retention.
3. Stuff the sausage mixture into the soaked natural hog casings using a sausage stuffer.
4. Twist into even-sized links and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Duck Sausage on the Center Grill Grate

1. Once the grill is hot, place a small amount of butter on the center grill grate.
2. Place the duck sausages directly on the grate and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side for a deep crust.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Griddle Cooktop

1. Move the sausages to the flat cooktop griddle surrounding the grill grate.
2. Cook the sausages evenly, flipping occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the sausages from the grill when the internal temp reaches 130°F (as they will continue cooking off the grill).
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Always preheat your Arteflame grill for an even cooking temperature.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
• Cooking the sausages using the reverse sear method locks in juices and enhances flavor.
• Let the sausages rest before slicing to retain their juiciness.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Duck Sausage: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy kick.
2. Italian-Style Duck Sausage: Mix in 1 tbsp fennel seeds, 1 tsp oregano, and 1/4 cup red wine for Italian flavors.
3. Sweet Maple Duck Sausage: Incorporate 2 tbsp pure maple syrup and 1/2 tsp cinnamon for a hint of sweetness.
4. Garlic-Herb Duck Sausage: Add 1 tbsp minced roasted garlic and 2 tbsp finely chopped rosemary.
5. Smoked Hickory Duck Sausage: Use 1 tsp liquid smoke and smoke the sausages slightly before grilling.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with butter
• Charred sweet potatoes
• Crispy grilled cornbread
• Maryland-style coleslaw
• Full-bodied red wine or a cold craft beer

Conclusion

Cooking duck sausage on the Arteflame grill brings out incredible flavors with a crispy, juicy texture. By searing at high heat first and finishing on the flat griddle cooktop, you ensure a perfect result every time. Try different variations to personalize your recipe and enjoy Maryland’s best flavors right from your backyard.