Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves

• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves

• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 1/2 pounds ground pork

• 3 slices (uncooked) bacon, diced

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup, optional

• 1 tablespoon canola oil

Instructions:

• SAGE MIXTURE: In a small bowl, combine sage, thyme, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper.

• In a large bowl, combine pork, bacon, maple syrup and SAGE MIXTURE; be careful not to over mix.

• To shape the patties, scoop out 1/4 cup (about 2 ounces) of pork mixture and flatten to create 2 1/2- to 3-inch wide patties, forming about 16 patties.*

• Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage patties and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.