Ingredients
2 lbs (900g) Polish Kielbasa or Smoked Sausage
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for searing)
¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
½ cup spicy brown mustard (or stone-ground mustard)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (to balance the sweetness)
Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne (for a kick)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. **Prep the Sausage:** Slice the Kielbasa into ½-inch thick rounds on a bias (diagonal) for a nice presentation.
2. **Sear (Recommended):** Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned and caramelized. (This adds texture and flavor compared to just boiling them in sauce).
3. **Make the Sauce:** Reduce the heat to low. In a small bowl or jug, whisk together the brown sugar, spicy mustard, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. **Simmer:** Pour the sauce mixture over the browned sausage in the pan. Stir gently to coat every piece.
5. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 10–15 minutes. The sugar will melt and bubble, eventually thickening into a rich, sticky glaze that clings to the meat.
6. **Serve:** Remove from heat. Transfer to a serving platter or keep warm in a slow cooker. Pierce a few pieces with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Slow Cooker Method: Skip the searing step (or sear first for better flavor). Throw the sliced sausage and sauce ingredients into a Crockpot. Cook on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 3-4 hours.
Mustard Choice: Spicy Brown Mustard cuts through the sweetness of the sugar perfectly. If you use regular yellow mustard, it will be tangier; if you use Dijon, it will be sharper.
Variation: For a fruitier version, swap the brown sugar/mustard for 1 cup BBQ sauce mixed with ½ cup Apricot Preserves or Grape Jelly.
Party Tip: Keep a jar of toothpicks next to the platter. These are sticky!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American