A Hearty Skillet Symphony: Potato Kielbasa Skillet
This Potato Kielbasa Skillet is a celebration of simple yet flavorful ingredients coming together to create a satisfying and wholesome meal. Tender red potatoes, smoky kielbasa, and fresh baby spinach are bathed in a sweet and tangy sauce, making this dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- The Starchy Base:
- 1 pound red potatoes (3-4 medium), cut into 1-inch pieces - These bite-sized potato pieces cook quickly and absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.
- The Shortcut to Tenderness:
- 3 tablespoons water - This water helps steam the potatoes in the microwave, ensuring they become tender before adding them to the skillet.
- The Sweet and Tangy Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar - Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tangy vinegar and mustard.
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar - Provides a delightful tanginess that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - A sharp and savory condiment that adds depth of flavor.
- 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme - The subtle herbal notes of thyme complement the other flavors beautifully. Fresh thyme is always preferable, but dried thyme works in a pinch.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper - Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth.
- The Savory Trio:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil - Used to saute the vegetables and kielbasa.
- ½ cup chopped onion - Adds a pungent and savory base flavor to the dish.
- The Star of the Show:
- ¾ pound smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage, cut into ¼-inch slices - Smoked kielbasa or polish sausage is the hero of this dish. Choose your favorite type, but keep in mind that kielbasa tends to be more garlicky than polish sausage. Both are pre-cooked and simply need to be heated through.
- The Leafy Green Powerhouse:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach - Adds a burst of color, essential nutrients, and a wilted texture that contrasts with the potatoes and sausage.
- The Smoky and Savory Touch (Optional):
- 5 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled - For an extra layer of smokiness and savory richness, add crumbled cooked bacon to the dish.
Instructions:
- Microwaving the Potatoes: In a microwave-safe dish, combine the cubed red potatoes and 3 tablespoons of water. Cover the dish and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain the excess water. This step helps pre-cook the potatoes so they cook quickly in the skillet.
- Creating the Glaze: While the potatoes are microwaving, whisk together the brown sugar, cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, and pepper in a small bowl. Set this flavorful glaze aside.
- Sautéing the Onion and Kielbasa: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and saute until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the sliced smoked kielbasa or polish sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
- Adding the Potatoes and Bringing on the Flavor: Add the pre-cooked potatoes to the skillet with the kielbasa and onions. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the potatoes to brown slightly and absorb the flavors.
- Introducing the Glaze and Simmering: Pour the prepared brown sugar glaze over the ingredients in the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the glaze to thicken slightly and infuse the flavors.
- The Finishing Touches: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted. This should only take about a minute. Finally, fold in the cooked and crumbled bacon (if using).
- Serving Up Deliciousness: Serve this Potato Kielbasa Skillet hot and enjoy the delightful combination of tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, a sweet and tangy glaze, and fresh baby spinach.
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