Description
This one-pan sweet and tangy BBQ sausage rice is a quick and flavorful meal combining smoky sausage, savory aromatics, and a delicious BBQ sauce blend. Perfect for using up day-old rice, it delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors in a simple skillet dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into coins
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice (day-old rice works best)
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (sweet or smoky preferred)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes, to develop a crispy, caramelized exterior that adds flavor and texture.
- Sauté the aromatics: Push the sausage to one side of the pan and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 2 minutes, which brings depth to the dish.
- Add the sauce: Stir in the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, and smoked paprika if using. Allow the mixture to bubble and thicken slightly for 1–2 minutes, letting the flavors meld and intensify.
- Add the rice: Add the cooked white rice to the skillet, tossing everything thoroughly to coat the grains evenly in the sauce. Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and develops a slightly crispy bottom layer for texture contrast.
- Finish and serve: Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving hot.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for best texture as it holds up better to stir-frying and prevents mushiness.
- Caramelize the sausage well to enhance depth of flavor and add a pleasant crispy bite.
- Adjust the sweetness or tang by varying the amounts of honey and BBQ sauce according to personal preference.
- Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños if you prefer a spicy kick.
