**The Art of Making Sausage**
As I begin my journey to create sausage, I'm excited to follow along with me as I prepare for this culinary adventure. First, we're going to start with the pork shoulder, which is the perfect cut for making sausage. This 2-kilogram piece of meat will be our foundation for creating a delicious and flavorful sausage.
**Preparing the Meat**
To begin preparing the meat, I'll need to trim any excess fat and connective tissue from the pork shoulder. This process is crucial in ensuring that our sausage turns out tender and juicy. Next, I'll grind the meat using a machine to create a uniform texture. The resulting ground meat will be perfect for mixing with other ingredients to create the ultimate sausage.
**Adding Aromatics**
Now it's time to add some aromatics to give our sausage its signature flavor. I'll mix in some fennel pollen, chili flakes, coriander, black pepper, and final seeds into the ground meat. The addition of these spices will not only add depth but also provide a nice balance of flavors. To finish off the mixture, I'll add a drizzle of maple syrup, which will help bring out the natural sweetness in the sausage.
**Casing the Sausage**
With our mixture complete, it's time to add the casing. This is where the magic happens, as we carefully wrap each sausage with a piece of intestine or synthetic casing. The goal is to create a tight seal that allows the sausage to cook evenly and maintain its texture.
**Stuffing the Sausage**
Now it's time to fill our casings with the delicious mixture of ground meat, spices, and aromatics. I'll use a combination of pork shoulder and trim from previous dinners to ensure that every last bit is used. As I fill each sausage, I'll make sure to pack them tightly, ensuring that they're secure and ready for cooking.
**Cooking the Sausage**
With our sausages filled and sealed, it's time to cook them over high heat. The grill will be set to a scorching 4,100°F, which is hot enough to sear the outside while locking in the juices inside. I'll carefully monitor the temperature, making sure that each sausage cooks evenly.
**Portioning the Sausage**
Once cooked, I'll portion out the sausages, using a combination of two and one techniques to ensure even sizing. This will also help prevent overstuffing, which can lead to uneven cooking.
**Preparing for Service**
With my sausages prepared, it's time to start thinking about service. I'll carefully arrange them on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of sauce. To complete the dish, I'll add a sprinkle of microgreens and a side of butter beans, kale, and pickled red onions.
**The Art of Confit Trout**
While my sausages are finishing up, I'll begin preparing confit trout. This delicate fish is cooked in olive oil with lemon zest and garlic, resulting in a flavorful and moist dish. To complete the recipe, I'll add smoked salmon for added depth and complexity.
**Making Mayo**
As I work on my main dish, I'll also be making a batch of mayo to serve alongside the trout. Using six yolks, vinegar, and a touch of salt, I'll carefully whisk the mixture until it reaches the perfect consistency. The result is a creamy, tangy sauce that complements the delicate flavors of the fish.
**Final Touches**
With my sausages cooked and my confit trout ready, I'll make any final adjustments to ensure everything is perfect for service. I'll plate each dish with care, adding garnishes and sauces as needed. And finally, I'll present the dishes to our esteemed guest, Oscar, who will provide valuable feedback on both dishes.
**The Finished Product**
As I step back to admire my handiwork, I'm proud of what I've accomplished. The sausage is perfectly cooked, with a nice balance of flavors and textures. The confit trout is moist and flavorful, with just the right amount of smokiness from the salmon. With Oscar's seal of approval, I know that I've created two dishes that will delight even the most discerning palates.