Andouille sausage is a zesty protein that can be added to many meals to give them some extra spice and kick of heat. Mild enough for regular use, but available in spicier versions, andouille sausage is used in many Cajun dishes.
Whether you’re out of andouille sausage or you have a picky eater, there are a few substitutes for andouille sausage that are comparable in taste and flavor.
Chorizo, polish kielbasa, Italian sausage, and tofu sausage can be used interchangeably as substitutes for andouille sausage.
When determining which substitute for andouille sausage, consider how the alternative will hold up in your dish, what texture it will create, and if it will match the other flavors in your dish. This will allow you to choose a substitute that will work well for your circumstances.
Discovering Alternatives for Andouille Sausage
In some geographic locations, it can be difficult to find andouille sausage. It may not be readily available or it may be limited in quantity.
Keeping this in mind will help you know when substituting for andouille sausage may be necessary. Here are a few good alternatives for this spicy sausage:
- Chorizo: If you love the zesty, bold flavor of andouille sausage, you will get the same taste with chorizo. This Mexican sausage can be purchased in large tubes at your local grocer and then ground or shaped into sausages at home.
- Polish kielbasa: Although this sausage has the same shape and texture as andouille sausage, you won’t find the spicy flavor you love in this substitute. However, if you are searching for an alternative with a similar shape, policy kielbasa works well as a substitute for andouille sausage.
- Italian sausage: Mostly available in a ground form, Italian sausage will give you the flavor and extra kick you are looking for in andouille sausage. Yet, it commonly comes in a ground form, which will give you a different texture to work with.
- Tofu sausage: Those who are vegetarian will appreciate this andouille sausage substitute. Available in many flavors, you can find one that closely resembles andouille sausage but matches your preferred diet. Many claim tofu has no flavor, so it makes a great base.
What Can I Use in Place of Andouille Sausage in Gumbo?
One of the most prevalent uses for andouille sausage is gumbo. This Cajun meat adds spice and texture to a liquid, warm gumbo soup. So, you’ll want to choose an alternative that embodies those qualities.
In this case, polish kielbasa is the closest alternative to get the texture you want. Adding some cayenne pepper can add the heat you are missing out on in this substitute.
Final Thoughts
In general, there are a few substitutes for andouille sausage that will work well in your dish. However, nothing can quite replace this Cajun sausage that has its own, unique flavor.
