Making your droewors at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a piece of traditional South African cuisine. These dried sausages, rich in flavour and texture, are a delicious snack that is often enjoyed with a cold drink. While the process requires some patience, it’s straightforward with the right ingredients and equipment. Here’s how to make authentic droewors in the comfort of your kitchen.
Gather the Right Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start, gather the necessary ingredients. You’ll need high-quality beef or game meat, around 2 kilograms, and 200 grams of fat (preferably from lamb or beef). The spices include coriander seeds, ground cloves, pepper, salt, and vinegar. A sausage stuffer and natural sausage casings are essential tools for shaping the wors. A drying area with proper ventilation or a biltong box will help ensure the sausages dry evenly.
Prepare the Meat and Seasoning
Start by cutting the meat and fat into small chunks, removing any sinew. This step is crucial, as excess sinew can affect the texture of the droewors. After chopping, mix the meat and fat with your prepared spice blend. The coriander should be roasted and ground fresh to enhance the traditional flavour. Add vinegar to the mixture and let it marinate in the fridge for a few hours to allow the spices to infuse into the meat.
Stuff and Shape the Sausages
Once the meat is properly marinated, it’s time to stuff the casings. Use your sausage stuffer to fill the natural casings, but avoid over-packing them, as the sausages will shrink during the drying process. Twist the sausages into convenient lengths and cut them. At this stage, it’s important not to form links as droewors are traditionally made as long, continuous strips.
Dry the Droewors Properly
Drying is the most critical part of the process. Hang the sausages in a cool, well-ventilated area or in a biltong box. The drying process typically takes around three to five days, depending on the climate and humidity. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry too fast or become too brittle.
If sourcing spices is a challenge, consider visiting a South African shop for authentic ingredients.
Conclusion
Once fully dried, your droewors are ready to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container to preserve their flavour and texture. With a bit of practice, you’ll master the art of making your own delicious droewors at home!