
Sizzling Asian-Style Grilled Vienna Sausages
Nutritional value per serving
Calories180kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat14gram
Protein7gram
Ingredients
- Vienna sausages (whole, with casing intact)8 piece
- Soy sauce (light)2 tbsp
- Honey or brown sugar1 tbsp
- Garlic (minced)2 clove
- Sesame oil1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)to taste n/a
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)1 tsp
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish)1 tbsp

This recipe guides you through grilling Vienna sausages whole with a delightful Asian-inspired marinade. It combines simplicity and bold flavors for a quick snack or appetizer. The total ingredient cost is approximately $5 USD, €4.50, £3.80, or ₹370. The dish yields 4 servings, with each serving providing about 180 kcal. It suits a quick meal option and is very easy to prepare, requiring about 5 minutes prep and 10 minutes cooking time. The recipe is perfect for beginner cooks with standard kitchen tools and focuses on food safety, including cooking temperature checks to ensure safe consumption.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Marinade
1In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, sesame oil, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful Asian-style glaze. This marinade will give the sausages a sweet and savory coating that caramelizes when grilled.
Marinate the Sausages
2Place the whole Vienna sausages into a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the sausages, turning them gently to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors. Avoid marinating for too long to prevent the sausages from becoming too salty or mushy.
Prepare the Grill or Pan
3Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). If using a stovetop grill pan or skillet, heat it over medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking. Preheating ensures even cooking and that sausages sizzle right away.
Grill the Sausages
4Place the marinated Vienna sausages whole directly on the grill or grill pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs to avoid tearing the casing. The sausages should develop a slight char and the glaze should caramelize for a delicious crust.
Check for Doneness and Food Safety
5While Vienna sausages are pre-cooked, grilling enhances flavor and texture. Heat sausages until the internal temperature reaches at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety. Use a food thermometer placed in the center of a sausage to check. This temperature ensures any bacteria are eliminated.
Serve and Garnish
6Remove sausages from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve hot as a snack or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips
1Use tongs to turn sausages gently to avoid splitting the casing.
2If you don't have a grill, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3Avoid over-marinating to keep the texture of the sausages firm and tasty.
4Always check the internal temperature with a food thermometer for safety.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Small bowl for marinade
- Food thermometer (recommended)
- Measuring spoons
- Plate or shallow dish for marinating
- Knife and cutting board for garlic and garnishes
Shopping List
- [ ] Vienna sausages (~$2.50): Choose fresh, refrigerated sausages with intact casings for best grilling results.
- [ ] Soy sauce (~$1.00): Opt for light soy sauce for authentic flavor.
- [ ] Honey or brown sugar (~$0.50): Honey gives a natural sweetness; brown sugar is a cost-effective alternative.
- [ ] Garlic (~$0.30): Fresh cloves provide strong flavor; avoid pre-minced for better taste.
- [ ] Sesame oil (~$0.70): Use toasted sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
- [ ] Black pepper (~$0.20): Freshly ground is preferable.
- [ ] Sesame seeds (~$0.30): Optional, for garnish.
- [ ] Green onions (~$0.50): Fresh, firm stalks add color and flavor.
Total approximate cost: $5.00
FAQ
Do Vienna sausages need to be cooked before eating?
Vienna sausages are pre-cooked and can be eaten straight from the can, but grilling them enhances their flavor and texture.
What internal temperature ensures sausages are safe to eat?
Heat them to an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure any bacteria are killed and the sausages are safe to consume.
Can I use a microwave instead of grilling?
Yes, but grilling provides a better texture and caramelized flavor. If microwaving, heat thoroughly and check that the sausages are hot throughout.
How do I prevent the sausage casings from splitting on the grill?
Turn the sausages gently with tongs and avoid high heat or prolonged grilling to prevent casing from bursting.