Pickled Sausage Bites

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Czech Utopenci is transformed into a more Americanized version by using sausages commonly found in American cuisine. The pickling brine is adjusted to include American spices and flavors, giving the sausages a tangy and zesty taste that appeals to American palates. Additionally, the sausages are served with a mustard dip, which adds a classic American condiment to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Utopenci, so you can check it out.

• 1 lb (450g) cocktail sausages 1 lb (450g) cocktail sausages
• 1 cup (240ml) white vinegar 1 cup (240ml) white vinegar
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon pickling salt 1 tablespoon pickling salt
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon dried dill 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Mustard dip, for serving Mustard dip, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, pickling salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, dried dill, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, celery seeds, and turmeric powder. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
2. 2.
   Add the cocktail sausages to the boiling brine and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sausages to absorb the flavors of the brine.
3. 3.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sausages cool in the brine for 15 minutes.
4. 4.
   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pickled sausages to a clean jar or airtight container. Pour the brine over the sausages, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let the sausages cool to room temperature.
5. 5.
   Cover the jar or container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
6. 6.
   Serve the Pickled Sausage Bites chilled with a side of mustard dip.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cocktail sausages — If you prefer a spicier version, you can use jalapeno or spicy sausages instead of regular cocktail sausages.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a splash of hot sauce to the pickling brine.
• Experiment with different types of sausages to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Serve the Pickled Sausage Bites alongside a variety of pickled vegetables for a colorful and tangy appetizer platter.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the brine.
• These sausage bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Serving advice

Arrange the Pickled Sausage Bites on a platter and garnish with fresh dill or parsley for an added touch of freshness. Serve them with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, serve the Pickled Sausage Bites in a glass jar or a clear serving dish, allowing the vibrant red color of the sausages to shine through.