Ingredients:

• 1 lb kielbasa (Polish sausage), cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 lb bacon slices (about 12 slices)

• 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

1. Prepare Bacon-Wrapped Kielbasa:

• Cut the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch long.

• Wrap each piece of kielbasa with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

1. Make the Glaze:

• In a small bowl, whisk together whole-grain mustard, maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

1. Brush with Glaze:

• Brush the bacon-wrapped kielbasa with the glaze, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the kielbasa is cooked through. You can turn the pieces halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness.

1. Optional: Broil for Crispy Finish:

• If needed, you can place the baking sheet under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get an extra crispy finish on the bacon.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove toothpicks before serving.

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

1. Serve with Dipping Sauce:

• Prepare a small side bowl with extra glaze or a dipping sauce of your choice for serving.

Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for some heat.

• Cheese Stuffed: Before wrapping with bacon, make a small slit in each piece of kielbasa and insert a small cube of your favorite cheese.

Enjoy these gourmet bacon-wrapped kielbasa bites as an appetizer, party snack, or as part of a charcuterie board!