What is summer sausage made of?

Summer sausage is a type of cured sausage that is typically made from pork, beef, and sometimes other meats. It's also usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices, and often contains nitrates for curing and preservation.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the typical ingredients:

* Meat: The main ingredient is usually pork, with beef often added for flavor and texture. Other meats, like venison, turkey, or chicken, may also be included depending on the recipe.

* Fat: Fat, often from pork or beef, is added to give the sausage a juicy and flavorful texture.

* Spices: Common spices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and other seasonings.

* Curing agents: Nitrates and nitrites are often added to cure the meat and give it a pink color, as well as to prevent bacterial growth.

* Binders: Sometimes starches or other binders are added to help hold the meat together.

The exact recipe can vary significantly, depending on the specific brand and recipe. Some summer sausages are also smoked for added flavor and texture.