Utopenci - Czech Pickled Sausages

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) sausages (such as kielbasa or bratwurst) 500g (1.1 lb) sausages (such as kielbasa or bratwurst)
• 1 cup (240ml) white vinegar 1 cup (240ml) white vinegar
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 3g (Sugar: 1g)
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sausages. Cook for 5 minutes to partially cook the sausages. Remove from heat and drain.
2. 2.
   In a separate pot, combine the white vinegar, water, sliced onion, minced garlic, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, sugar, bay leaf, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. 3.
   Place the partially cooked sausages into a glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the sausages, ensuring they are fully submerged.
4. 4.
   Allow the sausages to cool to room temperature, then cover the jar or container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
5. 5.
   Serve the Utopenci chilled as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with crusty bread and mustard.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sausages — Choose high-quality sausages with a good balance of flavors. If you prefer a spicier taste, opt for sausages with chili or paprika.
• White vinegar — Use a mild white vinegar, such as distilled or rice vinegar, to ensure the pickling liquid doesn't overpower the sausages.
• Aromatic spices — Toasting the mustard seeds and coriander seeds before adding them to the pickling liquid will enhance their flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a few slices of fresh chili pepper to the pickling liquid.
• Experiment with different types of sausages to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Allow the Utopenci to marinate for longer than 24 hours for a stronger pickled taste.
• Serve the sausages with a dollop of spicy mustard for an extra burst of flavor.
• Utopenci can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a convenient make-ahead snack.

Serving advice

Serve Utopenci chilled on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill. Accompany them with slices of crusty bread and a variety of mustards for dipping.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Utopenci sausages in a visually appealing pattern on the platter, alternating between different types of sausages if using. Place the fresh herbs strategically around the sausages to add a pop of color.