Also referred to as Polish sausage, kielbasa is a delicious specialty meat from Poland. Its smoky flavors make it ideal for cookouts, especially during summer holidays. Prepare for your cookout by learning more about these tasty sausages and how to grill them to perfection.

What Is Kielbasa?

A staple of Polish cuisine, kielbasa is a specialty meat sausage that can be made from turkey, lamb, chicken, beef, pork, or veal. The sausages are typically seasoned with garlic and other distinct flavorings like cloves, pimentos, and marjoram.

While the meat can be can prepared in a variety of ways, many people prefer it on the grill, as this process caramelizes the meat and enhances its smoky flavor. Grilling usually only takes a few minutes, as most kielbasa is fully cooked before it’s packaged.

How to Prepare Kielbasa at Your Cookout

Begin by putting your grill on medium heat and oiling the grates once they’re warm. Place the pre-cooked kielbasa on the grill and let it heat, covered, for about four to 10 minutes on each side, depending on the size of the sausage. Before removing it, make sure the meat is warmed through evenly and that there are crisp grill marks on either side.

Another popular method for preparing this specialty meat is to slice it lengthwise before putting it on the grill. This will enhance the meat’s smoky char and make it easier to fit into a bun. When grilling this way, watch the kielbasa closely, as it will require slightly less time to cook.

To pick up some delicious kielbasa for your Labor Day cookout, visit JJ International Delicatessen in Port Jervis, NY. For more than 15 years, this international market and deli has provided the Tri-State area with a wide range of mouth-watering specialty meats, delicious cheeses, and hard-to-find groceries from countries such as Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. Visit their website to see the full menu or call (845) 858-1142 to place an order.