How Do You Cook Boudin Without It Exploding?

Boudin can be a temperamental sausage to cook due to its tendency to explode. While this isn't the end of the world, it can certainly be a hassle. To help you out, let's take a look at how to cook boudin properly.

To cook boudin so it doesn't explode, follow these steps:

Fill a pot with water.
Heat the water until boiling.
Turn the water down to a simmer.
Submerge boudin links into water.
Cook boudin for 10-15 minutes.
Remove and let cool before cutting.

Knowing how to cook boudin properly can save you a lot of time and hassle. In this article, we will walk you through each step in detail so you can get the perfect boudin every time. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about boudin, so read on!

How Do I Prevent Boudin Casings From Bursting?

Boudin is a type of sausage that has a casing that is naturally thin and delicate. Typically, the casings are filled with pork, peppers, seasonings, and sometimes rice.

Depending on the region, you will find that the recipe for boudin can vary greatly. One thing that doesn't change is the risk of the casing bursting when it is cooked. When boudin is heated at too high of a temperature, the pressure inside the casing builds up and can cause it to burst.

One of the most common methods of cooking boudin is poaching. Let's take a look at how to poach boudin safely.

Fill A Pot With Hot Water And Boil

The first step in poaching boudin is to fill a pot with hot water and bring it to a boil. This will help to ensure that the water you are using is hot enough to properly cook your boudin without bursting the casing.

Be sure to use enough water so the sausages can be fully submerged.

Reduce To A Simmer

This is where some people tend to go wrong. Once the water has come to a boil, reduce the heat until it is just simmering.

Simmering the boudin will help to ensure that the casing stays intact without bursting due to excess pressure building up inside.

Submerge And Cook

Once you have your pot of hot water on a gentle simmer, you can submerge your boudin links. Cook them for 10-15 minutes until they are fully cooked and no longer pink in the middle.

Let Cool Before Cutting

After cooking, it is important to let your boudin cool down before cutting into it. This will help to prevent the casings from bursting due to the sudden pressure of the knife.

Some people decide to sear the boudin links after poaching. If you do choose to do this, be sure to let them cool first and then sear them on low-medium heat.

Searing them will add a nice crispiness to the outside of your boudin. If you decide to only poach the boudin, you will get a chewier casing texture.

You can also choose to season the water before poaching your boudin. You can experiment with cajun spices, garlic, onion powder, and more.

Are There Other Ways To Cook Boudin?

While poaching boudin is a common method, it isn't the only method. Let's take a look at some of the other methods that you can use to cook boudin:

Microwave

You can cook just about anything in the microwave, and boudin is no exception. This is a quick and easy way to cook boudin.

Simply place the links on a microwavable plate, making sure not to overcrowd them, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Turn them over, and cook for another minute or two.
Check the boudin links and check that the internal temperature is at 160°F. If not, cook for another minute or two until it has reached the correct temperature.

Oven

If you need to clear up stovetop space, you can also bake boudin in the oven.

Preheat your oven to 300°F, then place your boudin links onto an oiled baking sheet.
Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping the links every 5 minutes or so.
When the timer goes off, double-check that the internal temperature is at 160°F.

Steamer

If you have a steam pot, you can steam boudin in it.

Simply fill the bottom of your steam pot with 2 inches of water.
Place the boudin links into the steamer and cook on high for 3-5 minutes.
Then reduce the steamer to a low or warm setting and cook for another 10-15 minutes.
Remove the boudin links, check the internal temperature and make sure it is 160°F.

Grill

Last but not least, you can grill your boudin links. This will enhance the smokey flavor and give it a nice char.

Prepare your grill to medium-high heat, then place the links directly onto the grate.
Add some oil to the grates so the links don't stick.
Place the lid onto the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes.
Flip the sausage links and cook until the internal temperature has reached 160°F.
Remove from the grill, cool, and enjoy!

You can also replicate this method in a pan or cast iron skillet. If you choose to go this route, be sure not to cover the links.

This will help to create a nice char on the outside while still maintaining a moist, juicy interior.

Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to always check the internal temperature and make sure it is at least 160°F before serving. This will help ensure that your boudin is cooked properly and safely.

Do You Eat The Casing On Boudin?

Yes, you can eat the casing on boudin. The casing is edible and adds texture to the links. It also helps to keep the link together while it cooks and maintains moisture in the sausage.

If you don't like eating the casing, you can always remove it after cooking. You can also do it prior, but you'll end up with a ground sausage instead of a link.

Searing or grilling boudin links is a good way to try it with the casing. As mentioned earlier, the chewy texture when you poach them may not be for everyone.

Searing or grilling it can give a nice crispness to the outside of the sausage, making it more enjoyable to eat with the casing.

Is The Meat In Boudin Already Cooked?

Whether or not the meat in boudin is already cooked will vary. Depending on where you buy it, it may come uncooked or pre-cooked.

If you are unsure, it is always best to check with the purveyor before purchasing it. Of course, if you make the boudin yourself, you'll know for sure that it's uncooked.

Err on the side of caution and heat the boudin to at least 160°F prior to eating it. This will ensure that any bacteria in the meat is killed off and that it is safe to eat.

What Side Are Dishes Served With Boudin?

Before making boudin, you have to think about what you're going to serve it with. Boudin can be enjoyed on its own; however, for a more filling meal, you may want to consider serving it with sides.

Popular dishes that are served alongside boudin include macaroni and cheese, potato salad, collard greens, green beans, baked beans, and other vegetables.

You can't really go wrong with whatever side you choose, as long as it complements the flavors in the boudin.

You can also make boudin as an appetizer and serve it with crackers or a type of mustard. Cut the boudin links into slices and serve with an assortment of dipping sauces.

No matter how you enjoy boudin, it will surely be a hit!

What's The Difference Between Boudin And Pork Sausage?

While boudin is a type of pork sausage, it does differ from other sausage links you see in the supermarket.

The main difference is that traditional boudin contains cooked rice, onions, peppers, and seasonings, giving it a unique texture and flavor. In addition, the meat is usually from the liver and small intestines. While this may not be appetizing, don't overlook boudin for its offal content.

Pork sausage, on the other hand, is usually made from pork shoulder and contains ground meat, seasonings, and sometimes other meats such as beef.

Both are delicious and cook up nicely, but the flavors in boudin are more intense than in regular pork sausage.

Final Thoughts

Overall, whichever cooking method you choose, boudin links are a tasty and versatile dish that you can enjoy at any time. Give it a try, and you may just find yourself hooked!

Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might find helpful:

Is Kielbasa & Sausage The Same Thing – What Is The Difference?

What Meat Grinder Plate Sizes Should I Have [Inc. Size For Hamburger, Sausage, & More]?

At What Temperature To Bake Pork Chops?