What Exactly is the Edible Beyond Sausage Casing Made From?
Beyond Meat designed its sausage casing to be not only plant-based but also functional, offering a snap and texture similar to traditional animal-based casings. The primary component is calcium alginate, a substance extracted from brown seaweed. This ingenious use of a natural, marine-derived ingredient allows Beyond Meat to create a product that appeals to consumers seeking vegan options without sacrificing the familiar sausage experience.
The process of creating this unique casing is a form of molecular gastronomy, specifically spherification, which involves a gelation reaction between sodium alginate and calcium. In the case of Beyond Sausage, the filling is extruded through a nozzle into a bath containing calcium, where a thin, gel-like membrane forms instantly around the sausage mix. This method ensures a consistent, secure, and entirely edible casing that holds its shape during cooking.
The Purpose of Beyond Sausage's Plant-Based Casing
The casing serves several key purposes for the plant-based product:
- Mimics Texture: It gives the sausage the signature "snap" when you bite into it, a feature often missing in other vegan sausages cooked without a casing.
- Holds Shape: The casing keeps the ground plant-based protein mix together, allowing it to be grilled, fried, or baked just like a traditional sausage link.
- Enhances Cooking: By retaining moisture and fat during cooking, the casing helps the Beyond Sausage stay juicy and flavorful.
- Maintains Integrity: It prevents the sausage from crumbling apart, making it easy to handle and cook in various recipes.
Cooking Instructions for Beyond Sausage with an Edible Casing
One of the biggest advantages of the edible casing is that it simplifies the cooking process. You don't need to remove it, and you can prepare it using methods suitable for traditional sausages. Here are some popular ways to cook Beyond Sausage:
Grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Beyond Sausages cook best over indirect heat.
- Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the casing is browned and the sausages are cooked through.
Pan-Frying:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil.
- Place the sausages in the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning frequently to brown evenly on all sides.
- For a crispier texture, you can finish by sautéing with peppers and onions.
Baking:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked completely.
Comparison: Beyond Sausage Casing vs. Traditional Sausage Casings
To better understand the innovation, here's how Beyond Sausage's casing stacks up against the casings used for traditional sausages:
| Feature | Beyond Sausage Casing | Traditional Sausage Casings | Other Vegan Casings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Source | Seaweed (alginate) | Animal intestines (sheep, hog) or collagen | Plant-based cellulose or synthetic |
| Edibility | Yes, 100% edible | Yes, typically edible | Varies; some are not edible and must be removed |
| Composition | Calcium alginate, a polysaccharide | Primarily protein (collagen) | Polysaccharides, glycerin, starch, etc. |
| Dietary Suitability | Vegan, Kosher, Halal | Not suitable for vegan or kosher diets | Vegan-friendly |
| Allergens | Free from common allergens like soy and gluten | May contain animal-derived allergens | Varies by manufacturer and specific ingredients |
| Purpose | Designed to provide texture and structure for plant-based filling | Holds ground meat together during cooking and storage | Functions similarly to other casings but with plant-based ingredients |
Frequently Asked Questions About Beyond Sausage Casing
Is the Beyond Sausage casing safe to eat?
Yes, the casing on Beyond Sausage is entirely safe and intended to be eaten. It is made from natural, plant-based materials and contains no animal products.
What is Beyond Sausage casing made of?
The casing is made from calcium alginate, a substance derived from algae. This innovative, plant-based ingredient allows the sausage to hold its shape and mimics the satisfying snap of traditional casings.
Do I need to remove the casing before cooking Beyond Sausage?
No, there is no need to remove the casing before cooking. In fact, keeping the casing on is recommended as it helps the sausage maintain its juiciness and structural integrity during the cooking process.
Does the casing add any flavor to the Beyond Sausage?
No, the alginate casing is flavorless. Its primary purpose is to provide texture and hold the sausage shape, allowing the delicious plant-based seasoning to shine through.
Can I eat Beyond Sausage raw?
Beyond Sausages are not intended for raw consumption and must be cooked thoroughly before eating, just like any raw meat product.
Is the casing on Beyond Sausage gluten-free?
Yes, the Beyond Sausage casing is gluten-free, as it is made from algae-derived alginate and contains no wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients.
How is the Beyond Sausage casing different from Impossible Sausage casing?
While both are plant-based and edible, their specific formulations can differ. Beyond Sausage uses a calcium alginate casing, whereas Impossible Sausage uses a blend of sodium alginate, konjac gum, and guar gum.
Why does Beyond Sausage have a casing while Beyond Burgers do not?
The casing is necessary for the sausage form factor, providing structural support and the characteristic snap when cooked. Beyond Burgers are shaped patties that hold their form without a casing.
How do I know if the Beyond Sausage is cooked properly?
The sausages are fully cooked when they are browned on all sides and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Rest assured, the casing on Beyond Sausage is not only edible but an integral part of its innovative design. Made from plant-based, algae-derived alginate, this casing allows for an authentic sausage-eating experience, complete with a satisfying snap and juicy texture. By understanding its composition and purpose, you can confidently cook and enjoy Beyond Sausages, whether on the grill, in a pan, or baked in the oven. This thoughtful design element demonstrates Beyond Meat's commitment to creating high-quality, plant-based alternatives that meet consumer expectations for taste and texture.
Related Resources
For more information on Beyond Meat products and their ingredients, visit the official Beyond Meat website. You can also explore vegan cooking resources to find inspiration for delicious plant-based recipes using Beyond Sausages.
