Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This sweet and sour kielbasa recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on taste without requiring extensive culinary skills. This easy recipe is a delicious dish the whole family will love, and it's surprisingly healthy too!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened.
Step 2: Brown the Kielbasa
Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Create the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add about 2 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice to thin the sauce slightly – adjust to your preference.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the kielbasa and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and become glossy.
Step 5: Add Pineapple and Serve
Stir in the drained pineapple chunks. Cook for another minute to heat through. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Use different sausage: Andouille sausage or Italian sausage can be substituted for kielbasa, resulting in a different flavor profile.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious dish alongside a side salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This sweet and sour kielbasa recipe is a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors creates a delicious and satisfying dish. It’s a simple recipe that's easy to customize to your liking, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!