In this section, we have curated a guide to help you navigate through the process of buying the perfect sausage stuffer. We discuss some common types of this appliance along with the important factors to consider when making your purchase. We will also discuss some queries customers generally have about sausage stuffers. Have a look!
Types of Sausage Stuffers
Horn sausage stuffers
This is the first and the most basic type of sausage stuffer. It is a manual machine that operates through a handheld motor. They are usually composed of cast iron as it is quite strong, but the newer models feature other materials like stainless steel, chrome, and tin as well. Horn sausage stuffers are a great option for domestic use. Since they don’t have more than a five-pound capacity, they work well for small families. Also, they are smaller in size too, meaning, they don’t take up much counter space and can be adjusted anywhere easily.
Horizontal sausage stuffers
Suitable for bigger families and commercial use, horizontal sausage stuffers can take up to 20 pounds of load. Most of them also come with two modes of function, manual and electric. The manual ones come with a handle to rotate and require some manpower to do the job. That said, it is a good option if you want to invest in a heavy-duty appliance.
Vertical sausage stuffers
Vertical sausage stuffers are known for their large capacity and strong motors. They do offer both electric and manual functions, but mostly, they are famous for their electric machines. They are quite similar to horizontal stuffers and only different in terms of their handle position. Other than that, they work well for both domestic and professional use.
Factors To Consider When Buying a Sausage Stuffer
Nobody can say no to a good-looking, flavorful sausage. That's why you shouldn't choose a sausage stuffer randomly. Here are the factors to judge different models against:
Automatic vs manual
The first thing you have to consider during your hunt for a sausage stuffer is whether you want an automatic machine or a manual one. Manual options are usually smaller and require much less space. That said, they are quite slow in function and have lesser capacity. On the other hand, automatic stuffers are fast and get the job done in half the time. Also, they have a larger capacity and thus work well for bulk use. So when you are shopping for your sausage stuffer, make sure to carefully explore your options and select something that aligns with your requirements.
Ease of use
You can buy any machine you like but it won’t be worth it if you don’t know how to use it properly. That is why one of the first factors you have to consider when buying a sausage stuffer is its convenience of use. Especially if you're a beginner, you should invest in a machine that can help you master the art of sausage making. Look for an appliance that requires minimal maneuvering and offers some room for error. You can also start with a normal food mixer with a sausage attachment. That way you can learn the process before committing to a separate machine.
The capacity of the machine
Another important element to consider during the sausage stuffer hunt is the machine’s capacity. This depends on your family’s size and the amount of food you will be preparing. If you have a big tribe that enjoys regular family meals, you can do justice to a professional stuffing machine. In such cases, investing in a full-fledged horizontal or vertical sausage stuffer might be the best option. But if you live alone or cook occasionally, you can simply use a small horn stuffer as it can do the job efficiently. In short, you should look for an appliance that is well aligned with your and your family’s food habits.
Bodywork
Top-performing machines stand out because of their impeccable bodywork. It is the determining factor for its durability and ensures a high-quality experience with maximum efficiency. That is why when you are looking for the right sausage stuffer, make sure to invest in a well-constructed one. There are commonly two types of sausage stuffers in terms of bodywork: plastic and metal. While both possess their pros and cons, the metal one usually outperforms its plastic counterparts. Generally, these machines are manufactured from stainless steel and feature a rust-free and highly durable experience. That said, they can carry a big price tag. In opposition to that, plastic options are quite pocket-friendly but not as long-lasting.
Maintenance
Just like any kitchen gadget, sausage stuffers also require some degree of maintenance to keep up their performance so that it doesn’t get clogged up. Not to mention the hygiene issues that can occur if you don’t thoroughly remove any meat remnants from the machine. That is why you should look for a product that is easy to clean and maintain. Because these machines can be tricky to clean, look for one that comes with easy access. For example, search for stuffers with large nozzles as it will help you get rid of any buildup. Also, look for an option that is easy to disassemble as you don't want to wash the motor and other electric parts. Some sausage stuffers even come with brushes to help you get rid of any potential buildup. So when you’re shopping for your sausage stuffer, select one that is straightforward to clean and maintain as this feature will help you in the long run.
