Did you know October is not only National Pork Month, it's also National Sausage Month? Pre-COVID times I would have dived right into the celebration, consuming the gameday favorite as I tailgated with friends and family. (Go Jacks!)

Since many fans are not getting the chance to tailgate this year, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council and the National Pork Board have teamed up to create the Ultimate Homegating Guide, which focuses on the versatility and flavors of sausage.

"Sausage works on the grill, in dips and especially for breakfast for those who love to get started early on game day," says NHDSC President Eric Mittenthal. "While it's disappointing not to be able to attend games in person, recreating the stadium experience at home with their favorite hot dog or sausage adds to the excitement with those familiar flavors and traditions."

The Ultimate Homegating Guide includes sausage recipes from the NHDSC and the Pork Board's extensive collections. In addition to those traditional grilling staples like bratwursts, Italian sausages and hot dogs, the recipes highlight pork's ability to create authentic flavors from across the country and around the world.

"Sausage, as a staple of diets across the globe, is the original cross-cultural cuisine," says Angie Krieger, vice president of domestic marketing at the Pork Board. "The international flavors found in various sausage styles is nearly endless and offers home cooks many new options to try."

Some of the international flavors consumers are invited to explore during National Sausage Month include:

• Grilled Bratwurst with Onions
• Chorizo Huevos Rancheros
• Cajun Jambalaya
• Paella
• Polish Sausage with Cabbage

I may have to check out the Ultimate Homegating Guide before South Dakota State University's Hobo Day Scrimmage Oct. 31. While we won't be able to enjoy a brat outside Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium this year, we can enjoy one across town as we cheer on our alma mater. Go Big, Go Blue, Go Jacks!