Kielbasa, also known as Polish sausage, is a type of smoked sausage that is popular in Eastern European cuisine. It is made from pork, beef, or turkey and seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper. Kielbasa can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, frying, baking, and boiling.
We all love kielbasa, but sometimes we don’t have the time to cook it on the grill or in the oven. So, can you cook kielbasa in the microwave? if so, how?
In this article, I’ll answer that question and give you some tips on how to cook kielbasa in the microwave. I’ll also provide some alternative methods for cooking kielbasa, as well as some ideas of what to serve with it.
So, Can You Cook Kielbasa in the Microwave?
The answer is yes, you can cook kielbasa in the microwave. But it’s not recommended method for raw kielbasa as it can come out tough or rubbery. For store-bought, precooked kielbasa, microwaving is a quick and easy way to heat it up.
Many frozen kielbasa products such as Hillshire Farm Turkey Polska Kielbasa and Smithfield Polish Kielbasa come with microwave cooking instructions. If your kielbasa doesn’t come with specific microwave cooking instructions, you can follow the instructions that I’ve provided below.
Is It Safe to Cook Kielbasa in the Microwave?
A lot of people are turned off from cooking Kielbasa in the microwave because they’re afraid that it’s not safe. But, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), cooking kielbasa in the microwave is perfectly safe as long as you follow some simple guidelines.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when cooking kielbasa in the microwave:
Use a microwave-safe dish.
When microwaving food, it is important to use a microwave-safe dish. This is because using a non-microwave safe dish can lead to the dish heating up faster than the food, which can cause the dish to break or shatter.
In addition, using a microwave-safe dish will help ensure that the food doesn’t come into contact with any harmful chemicals that may be present in the dish.
Cover with plastic wrap and add a few drops of water to the dish.
After you’ve placed the kielbasa in the microwave-safe dish, it is important to cover the dish with plastic wrap. This will help to keep the kielbasa moist while it is cooking. In addition, adding a few drops of water will also help to keep the kielbasa moist.
Make sure the internal temperature of the kielbasa reaches 165°F before consuming.
As with any type of food, it is important to make sure that the kielbasa has reached a safe internal temperature before consumption. The USDA recommends that the internal temperature of cooked kielbasa should be 160°F.
You can use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the kielbasa. Simply insert the food thermometer into several different areas of the kielbasa and wait for the reading to stabilize. If the kielbasa is not cooked to a safe internal temperature, there is a risk of foodborne illness.
If you follow these guidelines, cooking kielbasa in the microwave is perfectly safe.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Kielbasa in the Microwave?
The time it takes to cook kielbasa in the microwave will vary depending on the size and thickness of the sausage, as well as the power of your microwave. But on average, a four- to a six-inch piece of kielbasa should take about five to six minutes to cook.
This is done using 1000 watts microwave on a high setting. If your microwave has lower wattage, you may need to cook the kielbasa for a minute or two longer.
Although I always recommend defrosting the kielbasa before cooking but if you’re in a hurry, you can safely cook it frozen. Just be sure to add an extra two or three to the cooking time.
How to Cook Kielbasa in the Microwave
Here are the instructions on how to cook kielbasa in the microwave:
- Place the kielbasa in a circular fashion on a microwave-safe dish.
- Add two tablespoons of water to the dish.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap, making sure to poke a few holes in the wrap.
- Microwave on high for five to six minutes. Turn the kielbasa over halfway through cooking.
- Remove from the microwave and let rest for one or two minutes.
- Slice and serve as desired.
How to Store and Reheat Cooked Kielbasa
Storing and reheating kielbasa is easy as pie… er, sausage! Here’s how to do it like a pro.
The first step is to let your kielbasa cool completely. You don’t want to put hot sausage in the fridge; not only will it raise the temperature of your fridge, but there’s also a risk of bacteria growth.
Once your kielbasa is at room temperature, wrap it tightly in cling wrap or place it in an airtight container. Then, store it in the fridge for up to four days. If you choose to freeze your kielbasa, it will be good for up to two months.
When you’re ready to reheat your kielbasa, there are a few different methods you can use. The quickest way is to microwave it, but if you’re looking for a more traditional method, you can also reheat it on the stovetop.
To reheat kielbasa on the stovetop, simply add it to a skillet over medium heat. cook until heated through, about five minutes. Add a little water to the pan if the kielbasa starts to stick.
Alternative Methods for Cooking Kielbasa
If you’re not a fan of microwaves, there are a few alternative methods you can use to cook your kielbasa.
One popular method is to cook kielbasa on the grill. This is a great option if you’re entertaining guests or if you simply want to give your kielbasa a smoky flavor. Just be sure to cook it on low to medium heat so it doesn’t split open.
Another alternative cooking method is to bake kielbasa in the oven. This is a great option if you’re cooking for a large crowd or if you want to cook a lot of kielbasa at once.
What to Serve with Kielbasa
Kielbasa is delicious on its own, but if you’re looking for some ideas of what to serve with it, here are a few of my favorites:
1. Sauerkraut: Kielbasa and sauerkraut is a classic combo for a reason. The salty, savory sausage pairs perfectly with the tangy cabbage dish. Plus, sauerkraut is packed with probiotics, so it’s good for your gut health. Win-win!
Related: Quick and Easy Microwave Sauerkraut Cooking Instructions
2. Green Bean Casserole: This creamy, veggie-packed casserole is a holiday staple for a reason. And when you add kielbasa to the mix, you’ve got yourself a hearty, filling dish that will keep you coming back for seconds…and thirds.
3. Fried onions: Talk about an upgrade! Ditch the soggy French fried onions and top your kielbasa with some crispy ones instead. You won’t regret it.
4. Bigos: This traditional Polish dish is made of sauerkraut, meat (usually pork or beef), and shredded cabbage. Add in some kielbasa and you’ve got yourself a meal that will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
Also read: Microwave Method for Cooking Cabbage: A Step-by-Step Guide
Conclusion
So there you have it, you can cook kielbasa in the microwave. Just remember that if you’re using raw kielbasa, it’s best to cook it on the stovetop or oven so that it doesn’t come out tough or rubbery. For pre-cooked kielbasa, microwaving is a quick and easy way to heat it up. Enjoy!
