Candied Kielbasa Recipe: Sweet, Savory & Irresistible
Candied kielbasa: the irresistible fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will leave you craving more. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, caramelized kielbasa with brown sugar, each bite a symphony of taste and texture. This addictive appetizer will be the star of your next gathering, whether you're hosting a party or simply indulging in a personal treat.
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa sliced into bite-sized rounds
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Pinch of cayenne pepper optional for a kick
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preparation: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized rounds. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper.
- Slow Cooker: Layer the kielbasa slices in the slow cooker. Pour the glaze over the kielbasa. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally, until the kielbasa is caramelized and tender.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the kielbasa in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with the glaze, reserving some for basting. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, and basting with the remaining glaze until caramelized.
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the kielbasa onto skewers or place directly on the grill. Brush generously with the glaze. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently and basting with more glaze until caramelized and slightly charred.
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, double the glaze ingredients for a thicker coating.
- Balance the sweetness with a splash of apple cider vinegar if needed.
- Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or fruit preserves.
- Leftover candied kielbasa can be used in salads, grain bowls, or scrambled eggs.