Sideline Sausage Skewers

Savory and Sweet Grilled Apple and Sausage Skewers

Grilled Apple and Sausage Skewers are a delightful blend of savory and sweet, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a cozy indoor grill day, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal. The harmonious combination of juicy apples, vibrant bell peppers, and seasoned sausages is elevated with a glaze that adds a sweet and tangy twist.

Selecting the right apples is crucial; go for a sweet variety like Gala or Fuji for the best flavor contrast. The sausages should be pre-cooked and flavored, ideally with hints of herbs or a slight spice, to complement the sweetness of the apples. When it comes to bell peppers, their crunch and slight bitterness balance the dish, providing a colorful and flavor-packed skewer.

Before starting, ensure your grill is preheated. This helps achieve a nice char without overcooking the ingredients. Cut your apples and sausages into uniform pieces for consistent grilling. As for the sauce, combining apple juice, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar creates a rich depth with just the right acidity, while the cornstarch thickens it to coat each skewer beautifully.

Ingredients

• 12 sweet apple slices, halved - Select sweet, crisp apples for the best flavor.
• 1 large red bell pepper - Provides a vibrant color and adds a slight bitterness.
• 12 oz flavored chicken sausage links - Choose sausages with a hint of herb or spice.
• 12 (6-inch) wooden skewers - Soak in water to prevent burning.
• ⅔ cup apple juice - Adds natural sweetness to the glaze.
• ¼ cup brown sugar - Enhances the sweetness and caramelizes the glaze.
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar - Introduces a tangy balance to the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch - Thickens the glaze for better adherence.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper - Adds a subtle kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting. This ensures the skewers cook evenly and achieve a desirable char.
2. Cut the apple slices in half if not already done. Dice the red bell pepper into 1-inch chunks, ensuring you have 12 pieces. Slice the sausages into 1-inch pieces, resulting in approximately 24 pieces.
3. On each skewer, alternate with a piece of pepper, sausage, and apple slice, ensuring an even distribution and colorful presentation.
4. For the glaze, combine apple juice, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, and crushed red pepper in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring it to a gentle boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing the mixture to simmer for 4–5 minutes or until it thickens. Once thickened, remove the glaze from the heat.
6. Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill them for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally. Brush generously with the prepared glaze throughout the cooking process.
7. Ensure the sausages reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they're cooked through. Serve immediately, offering extra glaze on the side for dipping.

Tips for Troubleshooting If Something Goes Wrong with the Recipe

• Too thick glaze? Gradually add a little more apple juice while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Skewers burning on the grill? Ensure the skewers were soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent this.
• Ingredients not grilling evenly? Make sure all pieces are the same size and your grill is preheated to an even temperature.
• Over-spiced glaze? Balance it with a bit more apple juice or a touch of honey to mellow the heat.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

• Side dishes: A simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors perfectly.
• Drinks: Pair with a chilled cider or a slightly sweet white wine like Riesling, which balances the dish's savory and sweet notes.
• Desserts or garnishes: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.

How to Store Properly

• For refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• For freezing: Skewers can be frozen before grilling by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, stored up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of sausage? Certainly! Try using turkey or pork sausage, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.
• What if I don’t have access to a grill? You can use an indoor grill pan or the oven broiler setting with similar results.
• Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before using.
• Are there any vegetarian options? Substitute sausage with firm tofu or tempeh, marinated in soy sauce and spices for flavor.