30+Best Cumberland Sausage Substitute For You

As a food enthusiast with a penchant for experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve always been fascinated by the world of culinary substitutes. Recently, I found myself in need of a Cumberland sausage substitute for a special recipe. What ensued was a delightful journey through various alternatives that left my taste buds pleasantly surprised.

In this blog post, I’ll take you along on my flavorful adventure as we explore Cumberland sausage substitutes.

30+Best Cumberland Sausage Substitute For You

If you’re looking for a substitute for Cumberland sausage, you have a few options depending on your dietary preferences and the specific flavor profile you want to achieve. 

Cumberland sausage is a traditional British sausage known for its unique blend of spices, including sage and black pepper. 

Here are some alternatives:

Traditional Sausage with Similar Flavors: Lincolnshire Sausage: This is another British sausage with a similar flavor profile, featuring sage and often additional herbs like thyme.

Pork Sausage with Seasonings: You can choose a plain pork sausage and add your own sage, black pepper, and other desired spices to mimic the Cumberland sausage flavor.

Vegetarian or Vegan Sausages: If you’re vegetarian or vegan, consider using plant-based sausages flavored with sage, black pepper, and other spices to replicate the taste of Cumberland sausage.

Ground Meat Mix: Create your own sausage mixture using ground pork or a combination of meats (like pork and beef) and blend in sage, black pepper, and other seasonings to match the Cumberland sausage taste.

Seasoned Ground Meat: If you want a simpler option, you can season ground pork or another ground meat with sage, black pepper, salt, and other spices to create a similar flavor.

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Italian Sausage: If you’re looking for a spicier option, Italian sausage can work as a substitute. It’s typically flavored with fennel seeds, garlic, and red pepper flakes, offering a different but delicious flavor profile.

Breakfast Sausage: Breakfast sausages are widely available and come in various flavors. Opt for a breakfast sausage seasoned with sage and black pepper for a taste somewhat reminiscent of Cumberland sausage.

Irish Sausage (Bangers): Irish sausages, often called bangers, have their own unique flavor profile but can be used as a substitute for Cumberland sausage in certain recipes.

Chorizo Sausage: Chorizo sausage, whether Spanish or Mexican, is known for its bold and spicy flavor. While it’s quite different from Cumberland sausage, it can add a burst of flavor to your dish.

Homemade Sausage Mix: Consider making your own sausage mixture by combining ground meat (such as pork, beef, or a combination) with a blend of herbs and spices like sage, black pepper, thyme, and marjoram to match the flavors of Cumberland sausage.

Cajun or Andouille Sausage: These sausages are known for their strong and spicy flavors, with ingredients like paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic. While not a perfect match, they can add an interesting twist to your recipe.

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Merguez Sausage: Merguez sausage is a North African sausage with flavors that include cumin, coriander, and chili peppers. It can provide a unique and spicy alternative.

Polish Kielbasa: Polish kielbasa is a versatile sausage with a slightly smoky and garlic-rich flavor. It can be used as a substitute for Cumberland sausage in various dishes, especially those with a heartier flavor profile.

German Bratwurst: Bratwurst sausages have a distinctive blend of flavors, including nutmeg, white pepper, and mace. While they differ from Cumberland sausages, they can work well in recipes that call for sausages with robust seasoning.

Hungarian Sausage (Kolbász): Hungarian kolbász offers a unique blend of paprika, garlic, and other spices. It’s a flavorful option that can add depth to your dishes.

Spanish Chistorra: Chistorra sausages have a mild yet flavorful taste, often featuring paprika and garlic. They can be a good alternative for a milder flavor in recipes.

Smoked Sausage: Smoked sausages, like smoked kielbasa or smoked andouille, can bring a smoky and savory element to your recipes, although they may not have the same herbaceous notes as Cumberland sausages.

Chicken or Turkey Sausage: If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, consider chicken or turkey sausages with added sage, black pepper, and other seasonings. They offer a lighter flavor profile compared to traditional pork sausages.

Homemade Seasoned Ground Meat: For complete control over the flavors, create your own sausage-like mixture by combining ground meat with sage, black pepper, and other desired herbs and spices.

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Vegan Sausage: If you prefer a plant-based option, there are various vegan sausages available that use spices and herbs to mimic the flavors found in traditional sausages.

Toulouse Sausage: Toulouse sausage, from the Toulouse region of France, is known for its rich flavor profile, featuring garlic, white wine, and sometimes herbs like thyme. It can be a flavorful alternative in various dishes.

Spanish Longaniza: Spanish longaniza is a cured sausage with a slightly sweet and paprika-infused taste. While it differs from Cumberland sausage, it can work in recipes where a smoky and spicy element is desired.

Cajun Boudin Sausage: Cajun boudin sausage is a Louisiana specialty with a unique blend of pork, rice, and spices, including cayenne pepper and green onions. It’s a flavorful choice for dishes that call for a bit of heat and a distinct texture.

Cheddar and Jalapeño Sausage: Some sausages come with added ingredients like cheddar cheese and jalapeño peppers for a spicy and cheesy twist. This can be a good choice when you want to add some extra flavor to your dish.

Moroccan Merguez: Merguez sausage, popular in North African cuisine, boasts flavors like cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes. While different from Cumberland sausage, it can lend an exotic and spicy kick to your dishes.

Boerewors: Boerewors is a South African sausage known for its unique blend of spices like coriander and cloves. It can be used as a substitute when you want a distinctive flavor in your recipes.

Chorizo Verde (Green Chorizo): Chorizo verde is a Mexican sausage made with green herbs and spices like cilantro and green chili peppers. It offers a fresh and vibrant alternative to Cumberland sausage.

Chinese Lap Cheong: Lap Cheong is a Chinese sausage known for its sweet and savory flavor, often enhanced with soy sauce and Chinese five-spice powder. It can be used in fusion dishes that require a unique twist.

Homemade Spiced Meat Patties: Create your own sausage-like patties by mixing ground meat with a blend of herbs and spices, including sage and black pepper. This allows you to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Low-Sodium Sausage: If you’re watching your sodium intake, look for low-sodium sausages and season them with herbs and spices to achieve a flavor profile closer to Cumberland sausage.

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Are there any vegetarian options to replace Cumberland sausages?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options to replace Cumberland sausages in recipes. These alternatives can be used in various dishes to achieve similar textures and flavors without using meat. Here are some vegetarian options:

Homemade Vegetarian Sausages: You can also make your own vegetarian sausages at home using ingredients like textured vegetable protein (TVP), lentils, mushrooms, and various herbs and spices to achieve the desired flavor.

Tempeh or Tofurky Sausages: Tempeh and Tofurky are plant-based protein sources that can be used as sausage alternatives. They can be marinated and cooked to have a savory and flavorful taste.

Mushroom Sausages: Create sausages using mushrooms as the base ingredient. Season them with the typical Cumberland sausage spices, such as sage, thyme, and black pepper, to replicate the flavor.

Legume-Based Sausages: Lentils, chickpeas, and other legumes can be used to make sausage-like patties or links. Season them generously with spices to achieve a savory taste.

When substituting vegetarian options for Cumberland sausages, consider adjusting the seasoning and spices to match the flavor profile you desire for your recipe. 

Experimenting with different options will help you find the best replacement for your specific dish.

Can I use a different type of sausage in place of Cumberland sausages?

Yes, you can use a different type of sausage in place of Cumberland sausages. Cumberland sausages have a unique flavor profile characterized by a mix of spices, so choosing a substitute will depend on your preferences and the specific recipe you’re preparing.

How can I make my own homemade Cumberland sausage replacement?

You can make your own homemade Cumberland sausage replacement using ground meat or plant-based ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe to create a flavorful Cumberland sausage substitute:

Ingredients for Meat-Based Option:

• 1 pound (450g) ground pork or a mix of pork and beef
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)

For Plant-Based Option:

• 1 pound (450g) plant-based ground meat (e.g., textured vegetable protein or a mix of mushrooms and lentils for a homemade base)
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)

Instructions

Prepare the Base: If using plant-based ground meat, follow the package instructions to hydrate it. If making your own base from mushrooms and lentils, sauté the finely chopped mushrooms and cooked lentils in olive oil until they’re softened and most of the moisture has evaporated. Allow it to cool.

Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the dried sage, dried thyme, black pepper, white pepper, cayenne pepper, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to create your Cumberland sausage seasoning blend.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat (or plant-based base) with the Cumberland sausage seasoning blend, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix everything together thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Form Sausage Patties or Links: Shape the mixture into sausage patties or links, depending on your recipe’s requirements.

Cook: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil if using a plant-based mixture to prevent sticking. Cook the sausage patties or links until they are browned and cooked through. For meat-based sausages, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Serve: Your homemade Cumberland sausage replacement is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes. Enjoy it in casseroles, on sandwiches, in pasta dishes, or any other way you like!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to achieve the desired texture and flavor in your homemade Cumberland sausage substitute.

What spices can I use to mimic the flavor of Cumberland sausages?

To mimic the flavor of Cumberland sausages, you can use a combination of spices and herbs that are commonly found in traditional Cumberland sausage recipes. 

Here are the key spices and herbs you can use:

Dried Sage: Sage is one of the most essential spices for replicating the distinctive flavor of Cumberland sausages. It provides a savory and slightly peppery taste.

Dried Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy and aromatic note to the sausage seasoning mix. It complements the sage and other spices well.

Ground Black Pepper: Black pepper contributes a pungent and slightly spicy element to the flavor profile. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.

Ground White Pepper: White pepper is milder than black pepper but still imparts a subtle heat and a unique flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper adds heat to the mix. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of spiciness, as Cumberland sausages can vary in heat.

Ground Nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, sweet, and nutty flavor that complements the other spices in the mix.

Salt: Salt is essential for balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall taste of the sausages. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Optional Ingredients: Some Cumberland sausage recipes may also include ingredients like mace, coriander, or allspice for additional complexity. You can experiment with these if you desire a more nuanced flavor.

Can I use ground meat instead of Cumberland sausages in my dish?

es, you can absolutely use ground meat as a substitute for Cumberland sausages in your dish. Cumberland sausages are essentially seasoned ground meat, so using plain ground meat allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

• Ground meat of your choice (e.g., pork, beef, chicken, turkey)
• Cumberland sausage seasonings (a blend of sage, thyme, black pepper, white pepper, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, and salt; as mentioned in a previous response)
• Optional: Finely chopped onions and minced garlic for added flavor

Instructions

Season the Ground Meat: In a bowl, season the ground meat with the Cumberland sausage seasonings. Start with a small amount, mix, and taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Remember to include a balance of sage, thyme, black pepper, white pepper, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, and salt.

Optional Aromatics: If you like, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in a pan until they become soft and translucent. This can add extra flavor to your dish.

Cook the Ground Meat: Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil if using lean meat. Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned ground meat (and optional aromatics if you sautéed them earlier). 

Break the meat into smaller pieces with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches the safe level for your chosen meat (e.g., 160°F or 71°C for ground pork or beef).

Incorporate into Your Recipe: Once the ground meat is cooked, you can incorporate it into your recipe just as you would with Cumberland sausages. Use it in pasta dishes, casseroles, stuffing, or any other recipe that calls for sausage.

Adjust Spices: Taste your dish, and if needed, adjust the seasoning with extra Cumberland sausage spices to achieve the desired flavor.

Using plain ground meat with Cumberland sausage seasonings allows you to enjoy the essence of Cumberland sausages while giving you control over the level of spiciness and seasoning in your dish. It’s a versatile option for many recipes.

Conclusion

My journey through Cumberland sausage substitutes turned out to be a delightful culinary odyssey. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs, aiming for a healthier option, or simply eager to explore new flavors, there’s a Cumberland sausage substitute out there waiting to be savored. The world of substitutes is diverse and brimming with creativity, and I encourage you to embark on your own culinary adventure. 

Who knows what delicious discoveries await you in the realm of alternative sausages?