These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are the perfect bite-sized treats for any gathering! Sweet honey and savory garlic sauce make them super tasty and hard to resist.
Honestly, I can never eat just one! They’re great as a party snack or even for a cozy night in. Just pop them in the oven, and you’ll have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These small smoked sausages are the star of the dish. If you’re aiming for a healthier option, you can use turkey or chicken sausages. They still bring great taste to the recipe!
Honey: Honey gives this dish its sweetness. If you prefer a lower sugar option, you could use maple syrup or agave nectar, which also work well with this flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: Use regular soy sauce for a salty kick or tamari for a gluten-free alternative. Coconut aminos is another great, soy-free substitute that adds a nice depth of flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove. Less garlic, but still gives a hint of flavor!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds acidity. You can switch it with rice vinegar or lemon juice for a different twist in taste.
How Do You Get That Perfect Glaze for Your Smokies?
Achieving that sticky glaze is all about simmering the sauce properly. Once you’ve combined your sauce ingredients, let it simmer to meld flavors before adding the smokies. Cooking time is key here!
- Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer for 3-5 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
- After adding the smokies, cook for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and coats the sausages.
- Keep an eye on the sauce—too much heat can cause it to become too thick or burn, so medium heat is just right.
This method ensures a mouth-watering glaze that’s perfect for dipping or just enjoying on its own!
Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb cocktail smokies (small smoked sausages)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes for cooking. Just a little patience, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Sauce:
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. In it, combine the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, and vinegar. Give it a good stir until everything blends nicely together.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
Now, place the saucepan over medium heat. You want to bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help all those delicious flavors come together.
3. Cook the Cocktail Smokies:
Next, it’s time to add the cocktail smokies to the saucepan. Stir them into the sauce until they’re well-coated. Continue to cook on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and the smokies are heated through.
4. Optional Spice:
If you like a little extra heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point and mix well. It adds a nice kick to the dish!
5. Serve Deliciously:
Once the smokies are ready, transfer them to a serving bowl. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped parsley or green onions on top for a beautiful finish. Serve warm, and don’t forget to include some toothpicks for easy snacking!
These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are a sweet and savory delight that you and your guests will love. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Smokies Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken smokies are great alternatives and will still absorb the flavors of the honey garlic sauce beautifully. Feel free to choose your favorite!
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Sugar?
If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, try substituting honey with a sugar-free syrup or using less honey overall. You can also experiment with agave nectar for a lower glycemic option!
Can I Prep the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time! Prepare it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before adding the smokies.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Smokies?
Store any leftover smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or use the microwave in short intervals.
