Cinnamon Sausage Recipe

Cinnamon sausage, a traditional dish from Northern Vietnam, is a must-have in meals, parties, and celebrations in the region.  Its unique flavor carries a sense of home, evoking nostalgia for those far away.  Traditionally made with lean pork and pork fat, cinnamon sausage is blended with cinnamon spice and cooked by steaming or grilling.  However, in this modern variation, ground turkey or chicken is used as a healthier alternative while maintaining the dish's signature taste and texture.

Ingredients:

• Meat Mixture Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey or chicken
• 1/4 cup oil
• 2 tsp cinnamon powder
• 2 tbsp annatto oil
• Marinade Ingredients:
• 5 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp chicken powder
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• 3 tbsp potato starch or cornstarch

Directions:

1.    Preparing the Meat:

·         Place the ground turkey in a large mixing bowl.

·         In a separate bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients until well combined.  Pour the marinade into the turkey and chill the meat in the refrigerator for 30–40 minutes (or freeze briefly) to keep the meat cold and firm during processing.

2.    Grinding the Meat:

·         After chilling, transfer the mixture to a food processor or meat grinder and process until smooth.

·         Add the oil and cinnamon powder to the meat and adjust seasoning to taste.

3.    Preparing the Annatto Oil Mixture:

·         In a small bowl, combine the remaining annatto oil with cinnamon powder to create a vibrant, flavorful topping.

4.    Shaping and Cooking:

·         Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

·         Line a non-stick baking tray with aluminum foil.  Brush the surface with a layer of the annatto oil mixture. Spread the meat mixture evenly on the tray, smoothing it with a spatula.

·         Brush the top with the remaining annatto oil mixture.

5.    Baking or Steaming:

·         Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes.  Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the meat—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

·         Alternatively, you can steam the sausage until cooked through, then pan-fry for a crispy outer layer if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon sausage pairs wonderfully with sticky rice, bánh giầy (glutinous rice cakes), bánh ướt (steamed rice rolls), or as a side dish in family meals.  Enjoy the delicious blend of fragrant cinnamon and savory meat!