Fresh Friulian Sausages: Musseto

5 pounds lean pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 pound pure pork lard, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 tablespoons salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds pork casings, 2-inch diameter, washed and run under water every 1/2 hour for 2 hours

Grind the pork and fat on the 1/2-inch setting of a meat grinder or have your butcher do it for you. Mix the pork and fat together with your hands. Add salt, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, vinegar, and pepper and mix well. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Stuff the pork casings with the pork mixture, tying the sausages at 5-inch intervals. Refrigerate until ready to cook.

Place as many sausages as will fit in 1 layer in a skillet over medium heat. Cook turning occasionally, until they are well browned on all sides. Serve immediately.

Yield: 12 to 15 servings