How to Make Thai-Style Grilled Sausage (Sai Ua)
Thai-style grilled sausage, known as Sai Ua, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Thailand. This sausage is made with minced pork, fragrant herbs, and spices, making it a beloved street food throughout the country. If you're eager to recreate this delicious Thai delicacy at home, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g minced pork
- 1/2 cup cooked jasmine rice
- 4-5 shallots, finely minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, finely minced
- 1-2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 2-4 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Natural hog casings or bamboo skewers (for shaping the sausage)
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to prepare your Sai Ua:
1. Prepare the Herb Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the minced shallots, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, cilantro, mint, and bird's eye chilies. Mix well to create a fragrant herb mixture that will be the heart of your sausage.
2. Mix the Sausage Filling
Add the minced pork, cooked jasmine rice, fish sauce, lime juice, and black pepper to the herb mixture. Using your hands, thoroughly mix the ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly combined. The rice adds texture and helps bind the ingredients together.
3. Shape the Sausage
If using hog casings, soak them in cold water to soften and rinse under running water. Stuff the casings with the sausage mixture, being careful not to overstuff. Tie off the ends securely. Alternatively, if using bamboo skewers, mold small sausage patties around the skewers.
4. Preheat the Grill
Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to become white-hot. For gas grills, set the burner to medium-high.
5. Grill the Sausage
Place the sausages or skewers on the grill, cooking them for about 15-20 minutes. Turn them occasionally, ensuring they are evenly cooked and have a beautiful char on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once grilled to perfection, remove the Sai Ua from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your delicious Thai-style grilled sausages with fresh lime wedges and a side of spicy dipping sauce, such as Nam Prik Nam Pla, for an authentic experience. Enjoy them with sticky rice or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Sai Ua
- Adjust the chili level according to your spice tolerance.
- For a richer flavor, let the sausage mixture marinate for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Experiment with additional herbs like basil or even Thai curry paste for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Making Thai-style grilled sausage at home can be a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. With the right ingredients and a bit of practice, you’ll be able to enjoy this delicious treat anytime you desire.