These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are a fun and tasty treat! Little sausages are coated in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce, making them perfect for parties or game days.
They’re super easy to make! Just simmer the sausages in the sauce, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser in no time. I always bring extra toothpicks; people can’t get enough! 🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These little sausages are the star of the dish! If you can’t find cocktail smokies, you can use mini hot dogs or even cut up larger sausages into bite-sized pieces.
Honey: The sweetness from honey is key to this recipe. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave syrup can work well, though the flavor will slightly change.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami richness. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic offers the best flavor, but you can opt for garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of the minced garlic.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional, but it adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, regular vinegar or lemon juice can be good alternatives.
How Do I Ensure the Sauce Sticks Perfectly to the Smokies?
To get a thick, sticky glaze on your cocktail smokies, follow these tips:
- Start by bringing the sauce to a simmer to help it thicken naturally.
- Cook the sausages in the sauce for longer—about 10-15 minutes allows the smokies to absorb the flavors.
- If you want an extra sticky finish, use the cornstarch slurry. Mix it well before adding to avoid lumps, and simmer until thickened.
These simple steps will give you that delicious, glossy sauce that everyone will love!
Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14 oz) cocktail smokies (small smoked sausages)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for flavor depth)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional for color and slight tang)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (to balance the flavors)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for glazing sauce)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes for cooking. Just under 30 minutes total for delicious honey garlic smokies that everyone will love!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium skillet or saucepan over medium heat, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, ketchup, and brown sugar. Stir everything well to combine the ingredients.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. This helps all the flavors work together and lets the sauce thicken slightly.
3. Cook the Smokies:
Add the cocktail smokies to the sauce. Gently stir them around until they are fully coated in the sauce. Lower the heat and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be heated through and nicely glazed.
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into the sauce and stir for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully transfer the smokies to a serving bowl. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and add chopped parsley or green onions if you like. This will give your dish a lovely touch!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the warm cocktail smokies with toothpicks for easy snacking. They’re perfect for parties, get-togethers, or just a tasty treat!
Enjoy these sticky, sweet, and garlicky bite-sized treats that everyone will be raving about!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While cocktail smokies are ideal, you can use mini hot dogs or cut-up regular sausages. Just adjust the cooking time if using larger pieces until they are heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply combine all the sauce ingredients in the slow cooker, add the smokies, and cook on low for 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to really meld together!
What Other Garnishes Can I Use?
In addition to sesame seeds and parsley, you could sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions. For a kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños!