Tangy Pickled Little Smokies

Name: Tangy Pickled Little Smokies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 kg little smokies sausages; 1 cup white vinegar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tbsp salt; 2 tsp mustard seeds; 1 tsp black peppercorns; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 2 bay leaves

90 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Savoury and tangy, these pickled little smokies are a party favourite!

Prep

15 min

Cook

15 min

Total

90 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Little smokies are a delightful appetizer that brings a savoury and tangy kick to any gathering. These mini sausages are beloved for their versatility and ease of preparation. This version introduces a pickling twist that enhances their flavour profile, making them a standout dish at parties and potlucks. The pickling process infuses the smokies with a unique blend of spices and vinegar, delivering a bold taste that pairs perfectly with their natural smokiness. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a flavourful and unexpected element to their appetizer spread.

Instructions

Prepare the sausages

Rinse the little smokies under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Pro tip: Ensure the sausages are dry to help the brine adhere better.

Make the pickling brine

In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent sugar from sticking to the bottom.

Simmer the sausages

Add the sausages to the saucepan, ensuring they are fully submerged in the brine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Simmer gently to avoid breaking the sausages.

Cool the mixture

Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sausages and brine to cool to room temperature.

Pro tip: Cooling helps the flavours meld together.

Transfer to jars

Once cooled, transfer the sausages and brine to a sterilized glass jar, ensuring the sausages are fully covered by the liquid.

Pro tip: Use a wide-mouth jar for easier transfer.

Refrigerate

Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavour.

Pro tip: Longer refrigeration results in a more intense pickled flavour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality sausages for the best flavour.
Allow the smokies to fully cool before refrigerating for optimum pickling.
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are little smokies?

Little smokies are small, smoked sausages often served as appetizers.

How long should little smokies be pickled?

Little smokies should be pickled for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best for full flavour.

Can I make pickled little smokies ahead of time?

Yes, pickled little smokies can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge.

How many calories are in pickled little smokies?

Each serving of pickled little smokies contains approximately 250 calories.

How do I store pickled little smokies?

Store pickled little smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I adjust the spice level in pickled little smokies?

Yes, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to make the smokies as spicy or mild as you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tangy pickled little smokies straight from the jar for a quick and easy appetizer. They pair perfectly with a selection of cheeses and crackers or can be served alongside a crisp salad for a light meal. If making ahead, store the smokies in their pickling liquid in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This allows the flavours to deepen and develop, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

10g

Protein

18g

Fat

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