The word kielbasa extends far beyond the broad smoked links you typically see vacuum-packed in grocery stores. Polish sausage can be smoked, fresh, or cured and contain pork, veal, or any variation of meats; some are from pork shoulder, and others utilize scraps or ground meat.
Traditionally utilized in Polish cuisine, kielbasa can be cooked, baked, grilled, or simmered in other ways, and there are many ways to enjoy the delicacy.
After you have finished reading this article, you’ll know there are many choices to make when you think of what to serve with kielbasa. Rice, scalloped potatoes, sauteed pepper, cucumber salad, and a host of others all make the list.
What is Kielbasa?
Kielbasa is a kind of sausage that emerged in Central Europe.
The Polish word ‘kielbasa’ stands for “sausage” or “one who works with sausages” (i.e., butcher), both in the contemporary definition of sausage but also define any related tube-like meat products.
The initial kielbasa is a long sausage, usually created from pork and beef, and the variations differ depending on the locality in which they are made.
When taken, kielbasa can be thoroughly cooked or smoked and is usually completed with sauerkraut or potatoes.
Kielbasa is okay to be eaten without any extra preparation, though.
The saying “zakwas na kiełbasę” literally signifies ‘to have the sour for sausage.’ Curing meats in Poland is almost entirely done with salt, garlic, and pepper.
The meat being cured is identical to some kinds of bacon which are cured in several methods, like brining or dry packing.
What To Serve With Kielbasa (9 Best Side Dishes)
Kielbasa can be taken by itself or as a component of some other dish.
The sausages are usually supported by side dishes, like mashed potatoes, fried beans, rice, French fries, or potato salad.
1. Sauerkraut
It could be one of the easiest side dishes to serve with kielbasa, the sauerkraut.
Sauerkraut comprises minced cabbage that is fermented in its juices or salt brine. The tanginess of this dish functions well with the tastes seen in kielbasa.
This side dish is popular in Europe, where sauerkraut dishes are taken with several meat kinds.
To make sauerkraut:
Position the sliced cabbage in a big bowl.
Enclose with boiling water and let it settle for about five minutes.
Sift the cabbage, set it in a jar or sealable compartment, and put it in salt to taste.
Shut the pot tightly and let it ferment for many days before serving.
2. Rice
Another regular side dish that does well when taken with kielbasa is rice.
There are several ways to cook rice for certain meals, making it an incredibly versatile side dish that can be relished almost any time.
To take kielbasa with rice:
Broil the rice by boiling or simmering until most of the water is soaked into the grains.
Once boiling, add a few tablespoons of butter and stir gently with a fork to confirm that each grain is covered.
Put it in a serving dish and finish it off with some chopped cheddar cheese.
3. Scalloped Potatoes
One of the most convenient side dishes often taken with kielbasa, potatoes can differ considerably in preparation.
Scalloped potatoes may be readied by shredding and layering them with cheese and milk or simmering them whole and then putting in salt and pepper to taste at the end.
For adequate results, bake scalloped potatoes by positioning them in a casserole dish with pieces of kielbasa.
Top the entire dish with shredded cheese and milk, then bake it until seasoned and bubbly.
Once done, finish it with a sprinkle of chives or parsley.
4. Sauteed Peppers And Onions
Got delayed on your way home?
Don’t give in to the lure to order takeout for dinner – you can instantly put together a decent meal with just bell peppers and kielbasa.
This dish may appear too simple, but it carries a delicious force that will smash your socks off.
Serve it with a set of seared kielbasa connections for a mixture of sweet and smoky delicious spices that will have you asking for more.
These sauteed peppers and onions are simmered in just one skillet, so you have less clutter to clean up afterward.
5. Cucumber Salad
This soft and oh-so-fresh dish is the precise summertime salad.
Paper-thin cucumber cuts and onions are moistened in a vinegar dressing. This provides them with an overwhelmingly sweet, tangy spice that will arouse your taste buds.
Couple this salad with your kielbasa for that flawlessly harmonious bite.
6. Apple Fennel Slaw
You find the usual coleslaws boring, right? Change it out of your regular cycle and grant this apple fennel slaw an attempt.
This slaw, prepared with just granny smith apples, fennel, onion, seasonings, and adorned in a lemon vinaigrette, has an extra tart flavor than your traditional coleslaw.
This distinct tartiness goes excellently with kielbasa.
Carry this apple fennel slaw when you go to your next summer party and see it become everyone’s new beloved slaw.
7. Bigos
Bigos is another famous Polish stew that goes for an excellent cold weather meal along with kielbasa.
Like kapusniak, it includes tons of sauerkraut, which evens out the richness of the sausage. Nevertheless, it is heavier than kapusniak and carries more meat.
To prepare bigos, begin with the meat of your preference kielbasa is compulsory, but you can put in anything else.
Slice the meat and put in a combination of sauerkraut and chopped-up fresh cabbage. Allow the mixture to simmer for hours, and the meat and the cabbage will cook together.
8. Mac & Cheese
Polished, flavorful mac & cheese is the precise supplement for kielbasa if you’re searching for a complete comfort food meal.
You can take mac & cheese along with kielbasa as a side dish or cut up kielbasa and add it to the pasta for some additional protein.
To prepare mac & cheese, begin by cooking elbow macaroni or other noodles following the package guidelines.
In a different pot, prepare a cheese sauce with flour, butter, and sliced cheese of your preference.
You can mix it together to create stovetop mac & cheese or complete it in the oven for a crispy crust. You can always combine boxed mac & cheese if you want a hasty meal.
9. Creamy Polenta
Polenta is an outstanding side dish for kielbasa because the mild, creamy porridge evens out the fattier compositions of the kielbasa.
Polenta is just coarsely ground cornmeal that changes into a porridge when broiled. You can customize the composition and introduce some flavor as you make it.
To prepare creamy polenta, do it according to package guidelines by whipping it in boiling water.
End the cooking on low heat after putting lots of butter and cream cheese for a nice, creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do People Eat Kielbasa?
You can eat kielbasa itself or with casseroles, soups, stews, sandwiches, and appetizers.
What Is The Best Way To Eat Kielbasa?
Kielbasa is best taken on a plate or in a roll with mustard, horseradish, or sauerkraut and can also be taken with other elements in stews, soups, casseroles, and sauces.
How Do I Cook Kielbasa?
Three ways.
Pan fry, stove top, and grill.
What Is The Difference Between Kielbasa And Polish Sausage?
No difference. They are the same thing.
Can You Eat Kielbasa Out Of The Package?
Yes, you can.
Conclusion
What to serve with kielbasa? You would have no problems if you followed everything I have discussed above. Kielbasa is a great dish, so you should enjoy it with something excellent.
