Pittsburgh-style links, also known as kielbasa or Polish sausages, are a staple in Western Pennsylvania cuisine. These juicy, flavorful sausages are typically made from pork, beef, or a combination of the two, and are seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs. Cooking Pittsburgh-style links can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve perfectly grilled sausages that will impress your family and friends.
Understanding Pittsburgh-Style Links
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what makes Pittsburgh-style links unique. These sausages are typically made with a natural casing, which gives them a snap when you bite into them. They are also seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, including garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Some Pittsburgh-style links may also contain additional ingredients, such as paprika or caraway seeds.
The Importance of Sourcing High-Quality Links
When it comes to cooking Pittsburgh-style links, the quality of the sausage is crucial. Look for sausages that are made with high-quality meats and spices, and are free from fillers and preservatives. You can find Pittsburgh-style links at most butcher shops or specialty grocery stores in Western Pennsylvania. If you’re outside of the region, you may need to look for online retailers or specialty stores that carry these types of sausages.
Preparing Your Grill
Before you start cooking your Pittsburgh-style links, it’s essential to prepare your grill. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Choose the right type of grill: Pittsburgh-style links are typically grilled over medium-high heat, so you’ll want to choose a grill that can achieve this temperature. Gas grills are ideal for cooking sausages, but charcoal grills can also work well.
- Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or around 375°F. This will help you achieve a nice sear on the sausages.
- Clean your grill grates: Clean your grill grates with a wire brush to remove any debris or residue. This will help prevent the sausages from sticking to the grates.
Grilling Your Pittsburgh-Style Links
Now that your grill is prepared, it’s time to start cooking your Pittsburgh-style links. Here are a few tips to help you achieve perfectly grilled sausages:
- Grill the sausages over medium-high heat: Place the sausages on the grill and cook them over medium-high heat for around 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
- Don’t press down on the sausages: Resist the temptation to press down on the sausages with your spatula, as this can cause them to burst open and lose their juices.
- Use a thermometer: Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausages. They should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F.
Alternative Cooking Methods
While grilling is the traditional way to cook Pittsburgh-style links, there are other cooking methods you can use. Here are a few alternatives:
- Pan-frying: You can cook Pittsburgh-style links in a pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Simply add a small amount of oil to the pan and cook the sausages for around 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through.
- Oven-roasting: You can also cook Pittsburgh-style links in the oven. Simply place the sausages on a baking sheet and roast them in a preheated oven at 375°F for around 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Serving Your Pittsburgh-Style Links
Now that your Pittsburgh-style links are cooked, it’s time to serve them. Here are a few ideas for serving these delicious sausages:
- On a bun: Serve the sausages on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as peppers, onions, and mustard.
- With peppers and onions: Grill sliced peppers and onions alongside the sausages and serve them together.
- With sauerkraut and potatoes: Serve the sausages with sauerkraut and boiled potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal.
Traditional Pittsburgh-Style Link Recipes
Here are a few traditional Pittsburgh-style link recipes you might enjoy:
- Pittsburgh-Style Link Sandwiches: Grill the sausages and serve them on a bun with peppers, onions, and mustard.
- Link and Pepper Skillet: Cook sliced peppers and onions in a skillet with the sausages and serve with crusty bread.
Experimenting with New Recipes
While traditional Pittsburgh-style link recipes are delicious, you can also experiment with new recipes and ingredients. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Link and Potato Soup: Simmer the sausages in a flavorful broth with potatoes and vegetables for a hearty, comforting soup.
- Link and Pepper Quesadillas: Slice the sausages and cook them with peppers and onions, then stuff them inside tortillas with cheese and cook them in a skillet.
Conclusion
Cooking Pittsburgh-style links is a bit of an art, but with the right techniques and tips, you can achieve perfectly grilled sausages that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a native Pittsburgher or just a fan of these delicious sausages, we hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to cook Pittsburgh-style links like a pro.
What is a Pittsburgh-style link?
A Pittsburgh-style link is a type of sausage that originated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is typically made from a combination of pork, beef, and spices, and is known for its distinctive flavor and texture. Pittsburgh-style links are often served at social gatherings and sporting events, and are a staple of the city’s culinary scene.
Pittsburgh-style links are usually made with a natural casing, which gives them a snap when you bite into them. They are also often smoked or grilled, which adds to their rich, savory flavor. Whether you’re a native Pittsburgher or just visiting the city, trying a Pittsburgh-style link is a must-do culinary experience.
What type of grill is best for cooking Pittsburgh-style links?
When it comes to cooking Pittsburgh-style links, the type of grill you use can make a big difference. A charcoal grill is ideal, as it allows for a nice char to form on the outside of the sausage. However, a gas grill can also work well, as long as you’re able to get a good sear on the links.
If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook Pittsburgh-style links on a grill pan on the stovetop. This is a good option if you’re short on space or don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just be sure to use a small amount of oil to prevent the links from sticking to the pan.
How do I prepare Pittsburgh-style links for grilling?
Before grilling Pittsburgh-style links, it’s a good idea to prepare them by pricking them with a fork a few times. This allows the juices to flow freely and helps the links cook more evenly. You should also make sure the links are at room temperature before grilling, as this will help them cook more consistently.
You can also brush the links with a little bit of oil before grilling, which will help prevent them from sticking to the grates. Some people also like to add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to the links before grilling, which can enhance their flavor.
How long do I grill Pittsburgh-style links?
The grilling time for Pittsburgh-style links will depend on the heat of your grill and the size of the links. As a general rule, you’ll want to grill the links for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned and cooked through.
It’s also important to make sure the links are cooked to a safe internal temperature, which is at least 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the links. Once they’re cooked, you can remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Can I cook Pittsburgh-style links in the oven?
While grilling is the traditional way to cook Pittsburgh-style links, you can also cook them in the oven. This is a good option if you don’t have a grill or prefer a more low-maintenance cooking method. To cook Pittsburgh-style links in the oven, simply place them on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.
Keep in mind that cooking Pittsburgh-style links in the oven won’t give them the same char and smoky flavor that grilling provides. However, they’ll still be delicious and a great alternative to grilling.
How do I serve Pittsburgh-style links?
Pittsburgh-style links are often served on a bun, topped with peppers, onions, and mustard. This is a classic way to enjoy them, and is a staple at many Pittsburgh sporting events and social gatherings. You can also serve the links with a side of sauerkraut or potatoes, which pairs well with their rich, savory flavor.
Some people also like to slice the links and add them to a sandwich or salad. This is a great way to enjoy them in a more casual setting, and can be a nice change of pace from the traditional bun and toppings.
Can I make my own Pittsburgh-style links at home?
Yes, you can make your own Pittsburgh-style links at home. This will require some specialized equipment, such as a meat grinder and sausage stuffer. You’ll also need to source high-quality ingredients, such as pork and beef, and a blend of spices that’s similar to what’s used in traditional Pittsburgh-style links.
Making your own Pittsburgh-style links can be a fun and rewarding experience, and allows you to customize the flavor and ingredients to your liking. However, it can also be time-consuming and requires some expertise, so it’s not for the faint of heart.