This Waikiki appetizer is a classic party favorite that balances the savory richness of pork sausage with the bright sweetness of pineapple and maraschino cherries. The sauce, thickened with cornstarch and infused with lemon juice and soy sauce, creates a glossy, tangy glaze that coats every bite. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for serving warm in a chafing dish at potlucks, holiday gatherings, or game day parties. The combination of textures from the meaty sausage and juicy fruit makes it an irresistible starter that pairs well with crackers or as a standalone bite.
Waikiki Appetizers
Description
This Waikiki appetizer is a classic party favorite that balances the savory richness of pork sausage with the bright sweetness of pineapple and maraschino cherries. The sauce, thickened with cornstarch and infused with lemon juice and soy sauce, creates a glossy, tangy glaze that coats every bite. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for serving warm in a chafing dish at potlucks, holiday gatherings, or game day parties. The combination of textures from the meaty sausage and juicy fruit makes it an irresistible starter that pairs well with crackers or as a standalone bite.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400ðF (200ðC).
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Shape bulk pork sausage into bite-sized balls, approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch in diameter.
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Place sausage balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
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Bake sausage for 25 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned. Drain excess fat on paper towels.
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Meanwhile, drain pineapple chunks, reserving the syrup.
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Measure the reserved pineapple syrup and add enough water to make 1 cup of liquid.
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In a large saucepan, combine the syrup mixture, brown sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and soy sauce.
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Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil and thickens.
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Reduce heat and gently fold in the drained sausage, pineapple chunks, chopped green pepper, and maraschino cherries.
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Heat through for 2-3 minutes until everything is warm.
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Transfer to a chafing dish or serving bowl and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 918.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 39.8g62%
- Saturated Fat 13.6g68%
- Cholesterol 88.5mg30%
- Sodium 1822.9mg76%
- Total Carbohydrate 106.6g36%
- Dietary Fiber 7.7g31%
- Sugars 81.4g
- Protein 37.5g75%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor.
This dish holds well in a chafing dish for up to 2 hours at parties.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar by 1-2 tablespoons.
You can substitute fresh pineapple for canned, but you will need to create your own syrup or use apple juice mixed with a little sugar.
