These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are a fun and tasty treat! Little sausages are cooked in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce that makes them extra yummy. Perfect for parties or game days!
These smokies disappear fast! I love serving them with toothpicks so everyone can enjoy their deliciousness easily. Who can resist that sweet, garlicky goodness? 🍯
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These little smoked sausages are the star of the show! If you want a healthier option, try turkey or chicken smokies. Vegetarian or vegan options are available as well—look for plant-based sausages!
Honey: I love using pure honey for its rich sweetness, but if you’re vegan, agave syrup or maple syrup can work as great substitutes, giving a similar flavor and consistency.
Soy Sauce: Dark soy sauce adds depth of flavor, but regular soy sauce will work just fine. For a gluten-free option, try tamari. You can also use coconut aminos for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be a substitute. Use 1/4 teaspoon for each clove of garlic.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds a nice tang! If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or rice vinegar can provide a similar effect.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Thickens Properly?
The key to a thick, sticky sauce is to simmer it long enough after adding the smokies. Here’s what to do:
- After adding the honey, soy sauce, and other ingredients, keep the heat low. Too high, and it may burn.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the flavors to blend well.
- Watch for the sauce to bubble gently for about 15-20 minutes until it coats the smokies nicely—this is your cue that it’s ready!
By taking your time, you’ll achieve that glossy finish that makes these smokies irresistible!
Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smokies:
- 2 (14 oz) packages of cocktail smokies (little smoked sausages)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
For Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. It will add a wonderful richness to the sauce.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it gently until it’s fragrant—this should take about 1 minute. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Mix everything together so it’s well combined—you want to create a deliciously sticky sauce!
4. Add the Cocktail Smokies:
Now, add the cocktail smokies to the skillet. Make sure to stir them in the sauce so they get evenly coated, which makes them extra tasty.
5. Simmer for Flavor:
Reduce the heat to low and let the smokies simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time. The sauce will thicken and coat the smokies beautifully.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once they are ready and heated through, remove the pan from heat and transfer the smokies to a serving platter. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a nice finish.
7. Enjoy!
Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. These honey garlic cocktail smokies make for a delightful appetizer that everyone will love!
Enjoy your sweet and garlicky honey garlic cocktail smokies—a perfect party appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Cocktail Smokies?
Definitely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, ideally in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the quick method of submerging them in cold water in a sealed bag until thawed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers is an easy way to amp up the flavor. Adjust the amount to your personal spice preference!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the cocktail smokies ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop before serving to maintain the saucy goodness.
What Can I Serve with These Smokies?
Honey garlic cocktail smokies are great on their own, but you can enhance your spread with appetizers like veggie sticks, chips, or even a cheese platter. Just make sure to have plenty of toothpicks on hand for easy serving!