What Is The Best Alternative for Andouille Sausage?

Sausages with andouille flavors tend to leave a sharp, smoky, and spicy taste in the mouth. The texture of this sausage is not the same as others.

Sausages are usually made with ground meat, but andouille is usually made with chopped-up pork.

It is possible to find options in your local grocery store that are relatively close in flavor and texture if you are unable to get your hands on the real deal.

If you like the flavor of Andouille Sausage but don’t want to pay the price, a good substitute is chorizo.

 This spicy sausage contains the same flavor as Andouille Sausage but with a lower fat content, making it a better healthy alternative.

German bratwurst, chorizo, and kielbasa are some of the substitutes that work well. 

Many alternatives and replacements are available if you want to replace the andouille sausage from a recipe.

In this article, I will be sharing some great options that can be used as a substitute for andouille sausage.

What Is The Best Alternative To Andouille Sausage?

If you are looking for a sausage with a different texture and a kick, andouille sausage is the one for you. It can be difficult to get your hands on things in the grocery store.

Some options can be used in the place of it.

Chorizo

Mexican chorizo might be the closest substitute to actual andouille sausage. The similarity between flavor and texture is the main reason for this.

It is worth noting that chorizo may be on the slightly spicier side due to the mix of chilies, paprika, garlic, and peppers present.

Chorizo isn’t as similar to andouille sausage as you might think.

It is a dark red color, whereas andouille is a light pink color before being cooked.

Despite this, the two textures are very similar, with one being more on the chunky side.

Kielbasa

If you want to recreate the smokiness of andouille sausage, then kielbasa would be a great substitute.

Although it can be made using other types of meat, this Polish sausage is mostly made from pork.

The key ingredient is a flower called cardamom.

Adding a touch of Cajun seasoning or black pepper to the kielbasa will bring the overall flavor closer to that of andouille sausage.

The sharpness of the sausage will be increased and the balance of the cardamom will be increased, making it more like andouille sausage.

German Bratwurst

German brat sausages are a good substitute for andouille sausage. The texture of these sausages is different as they are made from ground meat.

Adding spices to the andouille flavor can easily be mimicked with this option.

For the best results, buyers should invest in a traditional bratwurst that hasn’t been spiced, infused, or beer-battered in any way.

Best Non-Pork Alternatives for Andouille Sausage

Substitutes for andouille sausage can be made with beef and chicken.

If you are not a pork eater, you will find that these alternatives work well with recipes that use the pork version.

Chicken and beef andouille can be found in a few grocery stores, just be sure to take a look at the packaging.

These alternatives can be used for traditional pork-filled dishes such as gumbos and jambalaya.

Best Substitutes for Andouille Sausage in Red Beans and Rice?

For hundreds of years, red beans and rice have been filling up bellies for a fraction of the cost of other meals.

The perfect dish for anyone on a budget is this simple but rich dish. The andouille sausage is traditionally used in the recipe.

If it is not possible to get your hands on the sausage, it is possible to substitute it with any smoked pork or beef sausage.

Chorizo

Chorizo can be used as an excellent substitute for andouille sausage.

The spicy Mexican sausage has enough kick to give this kitchen’s favorite dish that extra bit of flavor.

It is possible to make this recipe with Spanish or Mexican chorizo.

Mexican chorizo would be a good substitute for andouille-centered dishes if both versions work well.

Kielbasa

Kielbasa is an excellent substitute for andouille sausage when mixed with red beans and rice.

It must be seasoned with cayenne pepper, garlic, and black pepper so that it is as close to andouille as possible.

Ground Beef

When it comes to red beans and rice, andouille sausage can be used with beef.

The alternative to andouille sausage is packed full of flavor and texture and is easy to prepare.

What Is The Best Andouille Sausage Alternative for Gumbo?

Several different andouille sausage alternatives work well in gumbo.

The andouille sausage quality comes from the extra seasoning of cayenne pepper, which is a popular choice.

Other options work well in gumbo. The dish has a sharpness and spiciness that andouille typically offers.

If you’re going to replicate andouille sausage, the best bet is a smoked sausage such as kielbasa.

It is possible to add more seasonings to enhance the flavor.

Shrimp or chicken can be used if you want to substitute the andouille sausage because you don’t like it.

Sausage, seafood, or chicken are used to make traditional Louisiana gumbo. This southern dish is well suited to either of these options.

Conclusion

While andouille sausage is unique in many ways, it is still considered gourmet and may not be readily available at just any grocery store.

It is possible to find excellent alternatives to andouille sausage if you know what you are looking for.

If you want to replicate the texture, then chorizo is the best choice. Mexican chorizo helps to enhance the flavor of your gumbo, so it is a great choice.

For the smokiness, kielbasa is the one to go for. If you want to make it more like andouille, it is possible to add more seasoning.

Chicken or beef andouille sausage is a good option if you want to avoid pork altogether.