Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Then look no further! This Smokies With Grape Jelly recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This surprisingly delicious dish blends the smoky richness of sausages with the unexpected sweetness of grape jelly, creating a taste sensation that's both comforting and exciting. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both delicious and surprisingly simple. Get ready to experience a new favorite among your easy recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Smokies: Begin by cutting your smoked sausage into bite-sized (approximately 1-inch) pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows for better distribution of the delicious glaze.
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Combine the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the grape jelly, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
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Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The goal is to melt the jelly and create a smooth, luscious glaze. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
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Add the Sausage: Once the glaze is smooth, add the cut smoked sausages to the saucepan. Gently stir to coat the sausages evenly with the sweet and savory sauce.
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Cook to Perfection: Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sausages are heated through and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and to ensure all pieces are coated in the delicious glaze.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the saucepan from the heat and serve the smokies immediately. They are fantastic served as an appetizer, a main course with a side of rice or mashed potatoes, or even as part of a fun game day spread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Smokies:
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your saucepan isn't overcrowded. This will allow the sausages to cook evenly and prevent steaming instead of simmering.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or grape jelly. Conversely, for a sweeter glaze, feel free to add more.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze.
Variations:
- Different Sausage: Experiment with different types of smoked sausage to find your favorite combination. Andouille sausage offers a spicier flavor profile, while kielbasa provides a more classic taste.
- Fruit Jelly: While grape jelly is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fruit jellies like apricot or blackberry for a unique twist. The sweetness and tartness will complement the smokiness beautifully.
- Added Vegetables: For a more complete meal, consider adding some chopped onions or bell peppers to the sauce during the simmering process.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 3-4 smokies and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Smokies With Grape Jelly recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. It’s a simple recipe, but the result is a delicious dish that everyone will love. Try it today and see for yourself! This recipe makes a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!