Vegan Chicago Style Grilled Kielbasa
This Chicago-inspired kielbasa takes the classic Polish sausage and gives it the Windy City treatment. The kielbasa is butterflied and grilled cut-side down to create a crispy, caramelized interior that holds the traditional toppings. Fresh dill pickles, ripe tomatoes, and tangy sport peppers nestle into the grilled sausage, finished with a sprinkle of celery salt for that authentic Chicago flavor. Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner when you want bold flavors without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 6 ounce Kielbasabratwurst or Italian sausage1:1Different flavor profile but same technique works
4
- 1 ounce Baby Dill Pickles by Milwaukee'sregular dill pickle spears1:1Slice into smaller pieces to fit
5
- 1 ounce Tomato
- 2 peppers Sport Peppers by Viennabanana pepper rings1:1Milder heat but similar tangy flavor
4
- ⅛ teaspoon Celery Salt
Instructions
- 1
Slice kielbasa into two 3-ounce links, then butterfly each link by slicing halfway through lengthwise, leaving bottom attached so it opens like a book
- 2
Heat non-stick pan over medium-high heat and place kielbasa cut-side down in hot pan
- 3
Cook for about 4 minutes until nicely charred, then transfer to side to cool
- 4
Slice pickles in half lengthwise and cut tomato into 4 pieces
- 5
Arrange pickles, tomatoes, and sport peppers evenly inside both grilled kielbasa
- 6
Sprinkle celery salt over each sausage and add any additional garnishes
Tips
Butterfly the kielbasa carefully to maintain connection at the bottom - this creates a pocket for toppings while keeping the sausage intact.
Get a good char on the cut surface for maximum flavor contrast with the cool toppings.
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Best served immediately while sausage is warm.
Can prep vegetables up to 1 day ahead. Grill sausage just before serving.
Serve immediately while kielbasa is warm for best contrast with cool toppings.
Common Mistakes
Don't cut kielbasa completely through or toppings will fall out
Avoid overcooking the sausage as it will become tough and dry
Substitutions
4
5
4
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, bratwurst or Italian sausage work well with this technique, though the flavor will be different from traditional Chicago style.
What if I can't find sport peppers?
Banana pepper rings or pickled pepperoncini make good substitutes, though they're milder than traditional sport peppers.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store assembled sausages in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the vegetables may make the sausage soggy over time.