Homemade Garlic & Pepper Kielbasa
This Homemade Garlic & Pepper Kielbasa recipe has been a labor of love for over two decades, evolving through family tradition and experimentation. Inspired by a classic Polish recipe, we’ve honed the balance of garlic and pepper to create a bold and flavorful sausage that stands out at any gathering. Perfect for barbecues, holiday feasts, or simply enjoying a hearty meal at home, this fresh Polish sausage captures the essence of rich, savory flavors. With meticulous preparation and the choice of quality ingredients, each bite promises a delightful experience. While the process may seem extensive, it’s a rewarding culinary journey that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Prepare ahead, freeze it, and indulge in this delicious homemade kielbasa anytime you crave a taste of tradition!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Casing
As needed (Soaked in warm water.)
Pork Butt
10-12 lbs (Cut into strips.)
Fresh Garlic Cloves
3-6 (Peeled and pressed or minced.)
Garlic Powder
1 tablespoon (No preparation needed.)
Kosher Salt
4-6 tablespoons (No preparation needed.)
Accent Seasoning
1 tablespoon (No preparation needed.)
White Sugar
1 tablespoon (No preparation needed.)
Coarse Black Pepper
4-6 tablespoons (Freshly ground.)
Marjoram (optional)
To taste (No preparation needed.)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Homemade Garlic & Pepper Kielbasa?
It is a fresh Polish sausage recipe that has been refined over two decades, featuring a bold balance of garlic and black pepper.
What is the main protein used in this kielbasa recipe?
The recipe calls for 10-12 lbs of pork butt, which should be cut into strips before processing.
How much garlic is required for this recipe?
The recipe uses both 3-6 fresh garlic cloves (pressed or minced) and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder for a layered flavor profile.
Is marjoram necessary for this Polish sausage?
Marjoram is listed as an optional ingredient and can be added to taste based on personal preference.
What type of salt should I use?
The recipe specifically recommends using 4-6 tablespoons of Kosher salt.
How do I prepare the sausage casings?
The casings should be soaked in warm water prior to use to ensure they are pliable for stuffing.
What kind of pepper provides the best flavor for this kielbasa?
The recipe calls for 4-6 tablespoons of freshly ground coarse black pepper.
What is Accent seasoning and why is it used?
Accent is a flavor enhancer (MSG) used in this recipe to bring out the savory notes of the pork and spices.
Does this kielbasa recipe contain sugar?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of white sugar is included to help balance the salt and heat from the pepper.
Is this a fresh or smoked sausage recipe?
This is described as a fresh Polish sausage recipe, though it captures rich and savory traditional flavors.
Can I freeze the homemade kielbasa?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage ahead of time and freeze it to enjoy later.
How long has this recipe been around?
This specific recipe is a family tradition that has been evolving and honed for over twenty years.
What occasions is this kielbasa suitable for?
It is perfect for barbecues, holiday feasts, or hearty home-cooked meals.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 key ingredients, including the meat, casings, and various seasonings.
What is the first step in preparing the pork butt?
The pork butt should be cut into strips, which makes it easier to grind for the sausage mixture.
How much black pepper should I use?
The recipe suggests a range of 4 to 6 tablespoons of coarse black pepper depending on how bold you want the flavor.
Can I adjust the amount of garlic?
Yes, the recipe allows for 3 to 6 cloves of fresh garlic, allowing you to control the intensity of the garlic flavor.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food due to its rich, savory profile and traditional Polish roots.
What makes this kielbasa 'bold'?
The high concentration of fresh garlic, garlic powder, and coarse black pepper creates its signature bold taste.
Do I need to grind the pepper myself?
The recipe specifies freshly ground coarse black pepper for the best aromatic results.
What is the preparation for the fresh garlic?
The fresh cloves should be peeled and then either pressed or minced before being added to the meat.
Is this a large batch recipe?
Yes, it is designed for a large yield using 10-12 lbs of pork butt.
What does the description say about the aroma?
The preparation process is said to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
What is the texture of the pepper used?
The recipe specifically calls for 'coarse' black pepper to provide a specific texture and bite.
Can I use table salt instead of Kosher salt?
While the recipe calls for Kosher salt, you should be careful if substituting as table salt is finer and may make the sausage too salty.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
The description notes that while the process may seem extensive, it is a rewarding culinary journey.
Is the kielbasa spicy?
It is not necessarily 'hot' spicy, but it is very peppery due to the significant amount of coarse black pepper.
Does the recipe require any specialized equipment?
While not listed in the ingredients, sausage making typically requires a meat grinder and a sausage stuffer.
Why is the pork cut into strips?
Cutting the pork butt into strips is a standard preparation step to ensure the meat fits through a grinder.
Can I use this recipe for a party?
Absolutely, the description highlights that it stands out at any gathering.