Creative Ways to Cook with Vienna Sausages
Vienna sausages are versatile and can be used in various recipes, making them a great addition to any pantry. Whether you prefer quick and convenient meals or something a tad more complex, these sausages can cater to all your culinary needs. Let's explore different ways to cook and enjoy Vienna sausages.
Heat and Serve Methods
Vienna sausages are not only versatile but also incredibly convenient. Here are some quick and easy ways to heat and serve them:
1. Heat Vienna Sausages in the Microwave
For a quick and easy option, simply heat the sausages in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Pop open the can, pour the sausages and broth into a microwave-safe bowl, and place it in the microwave set for 1-2 minutes. Adjust the time by 5-10 seconds as needed for optimal warmth. This method is perfect for a quick snack or meal prep.
2. Warm Vienna Sausages on the Stove
If you prefer heating them on the stove, place a small saucepan on medium-high heat. Pour in the sausages and broth. Let it cook until the broth is gently bubbling, which should take 3-6 minutes. This method is ideal for those who prefer a warm and comforting dish.
3. Fry Vienna Sausages for a Crispy Texture
For a little extra texture, you can fry the sausages. Place a small skillet on medium-high heat and heat it up. Pull the sausages out of the broth with a fork and place them in the pan. You can add a pat of butter to the pan to enhance the flavor. Cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping the sausages with a spatula to ensure even cooking. This method provides a delicious, slightly crispy texture.
Recipe Ideas
Vienna sausages can be the star ingredient in various dishes. Here are some recipe ideas to help you experiment:
1. Easy Appetizer: Vienna Sausage Pigs in a Blanket
Fill crescent roll dough with Vienna sausages and bake for 15 minutes. This snack is perfect for a party and can be enhanced by brushing an egg wash for a golden and crispy exterior. A single package of crescent rolls can make 24 pigs in a blanket, which requires about 3 cans of sausages. Serve with condiments like BBQ sauce, ketchup, or mustard.
2. Kid-Friendly Meal: Vienna Sausage Corn Dogs
Mix a box of corn muffin batter with Vienna sausages and fry or bake them. This simple recipe makes 24 corn dogs, which takes about 3-4 minutes to fry in a deep fryer or 8-10 minutes to bake. You can also deep fry them in a pan with 1 inch of oil. This dish is not only easy but also delicious and fun to make.
3. Simple Stir-Fry: Vienna Sausages with Vegetables
Chop up bell peppers, onions, and Vienna sausages and cook them in a stir-fry. Mix 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1/2 tablespoon of sugar to create a flavorful sauce. Cook the vegetables and sausages for 1-3 minutes, then pour the sauce over the mixture. This versatile dish can be served with rice, making it a complete and nutritious meal.
4. Flavored Rice: Vienna Sausages with Rice
Add Vienna sausages to your rice for an extra boost of flavor. Sauté onions and garlic in oil and stir in tomato sauce, seasonings, and the sausages. This packed flavor can be enjoyed as an easy dinner. If you prefer, you can use pre-made flavored rice box mixes to save time.
5. Pasta with Vienna Sausages
Incorporate Vienna sausages into your favorite pasta dish for a filling and inexpensive meal. Boil the pasta and heat up a sauce. Toss the sausages with the pasta and sauce, and you have a complete meal. Perfect for adding to mac and cheese or as a meat alternative for spaghetti.
6. Eggs and Vienna Sausage Scramble
Create a quick and tasty breakfast by scrambling eggs with Vienna sausages. Dice the sausages and cook them with onions and peppers in a skillet. Lower the heat and add the eggs, stirring until they are cooked to your liking. This meal can be served on its own or over rice.
7. Breakfast Burrito with Vienna Sausage
Make a portable and flavorful breakfast burrito by cooking Vienna sausages with onions and peppers in a skillet. Add scrambled eggs and refried beans, then assemble the burrito with tortillas and cheese. These burritos are ideal for on-the-go breakfasts and can be made spicy with hot sauce.