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Honey teriyaki little smokies bring an Asian-inspired twist to classic cocktail sausages, creating a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Through years of entertaining, I've found that this slow cooker appetizer consistently draws people back for seconds with its irresistible combination of tender sausages and glossy sauce.
During a recent neighborhood potluck, these disappeared so quickly I had to share the recipe with several guests. The combination of honey teriyaki and pineapple creates a crowd-pleasing flavor that appeals to all ages.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Little Smokies: Choose high-quality cocktail sausages - they're the star of the dish.
- Honey Teriyaki Marinade: Look for versions with real honey for the best flavor.
- Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned work well, but save the juice for the sauce.
- Asian Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
- Sesame Seeds: Toast them lightly to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Fresh Chives: Provide a pop of color and fresh onion flavor.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Initial Preparation:
- Begin by spraying your slow cooker with cooking spray - this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Arrange the Little Smokies in an even layer at the bottom of the crock. The even distribution ensures they'll cook uniformly and be coated with sauce.
- Sauce Development:
- Combine the honey teriyaki marinade with Asian sweet chili sauce before pouring over the sausages. This allows for better flavor distribution. Add pineapple chunks strategically throughout - they'll release their juice during cooking, adding natural sweetness to the sauce.
- Cooking Process Management:
- Cover and cook on high until everything is heated through. The sauce will begin to bubble gently around the edges. This is when you'll add your cornstarch slurry, made with reserved pineapple juice, to achieve that perfect glaze-like consistency.
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My mother-in-law taught me that the key to perfect little smokies is patience - letting them simmer slowly allows the flavors to develop fully and the sauce to reach the ideal consistency.
Serving Strategies
Through countless parties and gatherings, I've discovered various ways to present this dish. For casual events, keep them warm in the slow cooker with decorative toothpicks nearby. For dinner parties, serve over steamed rice with additional sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Make-Ahead Options
I often prepare everything the night before, combining ingredients in the slow cooker insert and refrigerating overnight. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to let the insert come to room temperature before cooking.
Storage Solutions
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to three days. The sauce might thicken in the refrigerator, but a splash of pineapple juice while reheating brings it back to the perfect consistency.
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This honey teriyaki little smokies recipe has become my signature party dish. It proves that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly special that brings people together and creates lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, cook as directed then keep warm in your slow cooker for up to 4 hours. The sauce may thin out - just add a bit more cornstarch slurry if needed.
- → What heat level of chili sauce works best?
- Medium gives a nice balance, but use mild for kid-friendly or hot if you like more spice. The sweetness helps balance the heat.
- → Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
- Fresh pineapple works great. Add a splash of pineapple juice when thickening the sauce if needed.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- → Can I double this recipe?
- Yes, just use a larger slow cooker and keep the cooking time the same. Stir occasionally for even heating.