Italian Sausage With Cider Braised Leeks and Apples

Leeks and apples braised in hard cider lend a great sweetness to counter the sharpness of the cheddar. Use a high quality pork sausage and a very sharp cheddar.

Serves 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups thinly sliced leeks
• 1 apple, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
• Pinch of ground allspice
• Kosher salt
• 1 1/2 cups hard apple cider
• 6 grilled hot dog buns
• Dijon mustard
• 6 grilled Italian sausage
• 2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and apple. Cover and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes. Mix in caraway and allspice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add hard cider and bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, until most of liquid is cooked away, about 15 minutes.

Spread dijon mustard on the toasted buns, top with the grilled sausage and sprinkle cheese over all. Top each sausage with the leek mixture.