Spicy Cider Sausage Stir Fry
Description
Welcome to a delightful fusion of flavors with our Spicy Cider Sausage Stir Fry. This dish harmoniously combines the sweetness of hard cider with the savory depth of smoked sausage and a medley of vibrant vegetables. It’s a culinary symphony of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that is both beginner-friendly and kid-approved.
Ingredients
- 2 smoked sausages (about 8 ounces)
- 2 zucchinis
- 1/2 green bell pepper
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper
- 1 leek (white and light green parts only)
- 1 cooking apple
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup hard alcoholic cider
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on available data)
- Calories: 198.1
- Fat Content: 9.4 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.2 g
- Cholesterol Content: 10.2 mg
- Sodium Content: 49.9 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 29.4 g
- Fiber Content: 4.7 g
- Sugar Content: 9.8 g
- Protein Content: 3.5 g
Instructions
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Preparation:
- Cut the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch slices.
- Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds.
- Dice the green, red, and yellow bell peppers into small squares.
- Wash the leek thoroughly, then cut it into 1/2-inch squares, using only the white and light green parts.
- Core the cooking apple, and cut it into 1/2-inch pieces, leaving the skin on for added texture and color.
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Cooking the Sausages:
- Heat the oil and butter in a wok or a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced sausages to the pan and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until they become browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
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Adding Vegetables:
- Add the sliced zucchinis, diced bell peppers, and leek pieces to the pan.
- Toss in the apple pieces and sprinkle with cayenne pepper.
- Stir-fry everything together for another 5 minutes or until the vegetables reach your desired level of tenderness.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Creating the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the hard cider and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour this mixture into the pan with the sausage and vegetables.
- Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients evenly.
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Serving:
- Once everything is well-mixed and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from heat.
- Serve the stir fry hot, accompanied by a side of rice, or simply enjoy it as is for a lighter meal.
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Customization Tip:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of smoked sausage based on your preference, whether it be beef, pork, chicken, or turkey.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Variations: You can easily substitute or add other vegetables to this stir fry. Try adding sliced mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your heat tolerance. If you prefer a milder dish, start with 1/2 teaspoon and increase gradually.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that your hard cider is gluten-free if you are following a gluten-free diet. Most ciders are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the label.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative and replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or oil.
Cooking Equipment Needed
- Wok or Large Frying Pan: A wok is ideal for stir-frying due to its high sides and ability to evenly distribute heat, but a large frying pan will work just as well.
- Sharp Knife: For cutting the sausage, vegetables, and apple.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting surface to prepare all your ingredients.
- Small Bowl: To whisk together the hard cider and cornstarch for the sauce.
- Whisk: To ensure the cider and cornstarch mixture is smooth.
Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
Understanding the nutritional content of your meal can be crucial, especially if you are mindful of your dietary intake. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the key nutrients:
- Fat Content: The majority of the fat comes from the smoked sausage and butter. To reduce the fat content, you can use a leaner sausage and reduce the amount of butter or substitute it with a healthier oil such as olive oil.
- Carbohydrate Content: The carbohydrates primarily come from the vegetables and the cooking apple, providing a good source of dietary fiber and natural sugars.
- Protein Content: Although the protein content is relatively low, it is complemented by the sausage. For a protein boost, consider adding more sausage or serving the stir fry with a protein-rich side such as quinoa.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This stir fry is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables. Bell peppers, in particular, are high in vitamin C, while the apple provides a good dose of fiber and antioxidants.
Cooking and Serving Suggestions
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad.
- Garnishing: Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro to add a burst of freshness and color.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cider to rehydrate if necessary.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Spicy Cider Sausage Stir Fry is not only a quick and easy meal to whip up on a busy weeknight, but it also makes for an impressive dish to serve at casual gatherings. Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma are sure to attract attention and delight your guests.
Conclusion
In summary, the Spicy Cider Sausage Stir Fry is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the sweet, savory, and spicy elements in a delightful way. Its quick preparation time and beginner-friendly steps make it an excellent choice for those new to cooking or anyone looking for a delicious, fuss-free meal. Whether you stick to the recipe as is or customize it to your taste, this stir fry is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and the satisfaction of creating a wholesome, homemade meal!
