These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are a tasty treat! Little sausages are cooked in a sweet and sticky honey-garlic sauce, making them a favorite at parties or family gatherings.
Honestly, who can resist the sweet and savory smell wafting through the kitchen? I love to serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking, and they always disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These tiny sausages bring a ton of flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken smokies are great substitutes. Vegetarian options are available too, though they may have different cooking times.
Honey: Honey is key for that sweet glaze. If you need a substitute, maple syrup works well too, but it will give a different flavor. Agave syrup is also a good option if you’re looking for a vegan substitute.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds a nice saltiness. For a gluten-free version, choose tamari sauce. If you want a lower sodium option, go for low-sodium soy sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor, but you can use garlic powder if fresh is not available. Just remember, 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder equals 1 clove of fresh garlic.
How Do I Get the Sauce to Stick Just Right?
Getting that sauce to be perfectly sticky is all about the right cooking technique. After simmering the sauce for a few minutes, it will thicken slightly. Here are some handy tips:
- Make sure you’re cooking on medium heat to avoid burning the sauce.
- Coat the smokies evenly, stirring gently so they don’t break.
- Let them simmer covered for 15-20 minutes, which will allow the smokies to absorb the flavors.
- If the sauce isn’t thickening as much as you’d like, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes.
This technique will help ensure your smokies are beautifully coated and not swimming in sauce!
How to Make Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (14 oz) cocktail smokies (little sausages)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or green onion, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a last-minute appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, and the optional apple cider vinegar. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely combined.
2. Bring to a Simmer:
Allow the sauce mixture to come to a simmer, cooking it for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to thicken slightly, making a lovely sticky sauce.
3. Add the Cocktail Smokies:
Now it’s time to introduce the cocktail smokies! Add them to the saucepan and stir well to coat each sausage in that sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
4. Simmer Until Ready:
Turn the heat down to low, cover the saucepan, and let the smokies simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, making sure they’re heated through and nicely coated with sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once ready, transfer the smokies to a serving bowl. Sprinkle sesame seeds and some chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. These honey garlic cocktail smokies are perfect for any gathering — they’re bound to be a crowd favorite!
Can I Use Fresh Sausages Instead of Cocktail Smokies?
Absolutely! You can use fresh sausages cut into smaller pieces. Just make sure to cook them until thoroughly done, as fresh sausages require longer cooking than pre-cooked cocktail smokies.
Can I Prepare This Dish in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This method lets the flavors meld beautifully!
What Should I Do If the Sauce is Too Thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a little water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Add it gradually, stirring until you’ve got it just right!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of water to rehydrate the sauce if needed.
