SIMPSON, Pa. — Rings of kielbasi hang inside the smoker at Oprisko Kielbasa near Simpson. Owner Dave Rupp says the smoked meat is a hot commodity, especially ahead of Easter, and they need to make sure they have enough for customers.
"We started the day after the Super Bowl, and we've been doing 300 pounds a day every day of the week," Rupp said.
Rupp says people travel from far and wide, even out of state, to buy his kielbasi.
For many, it's a tradition to have kielbasi during a holiday meal, including Melissa Heller, who drives about 40 minutes one way to buy it at Oprisko's.
"Yeah. I got, I think, four rings of kielbasi and then two of the red pepper," said Heller.
This year, Rupp wanted to try a new flavor to give people a taste of a Polish country-style kielbasi using ingredients that had to be shipped from Poland.
"We did about 200 pounds of the marjoram for this holiday to see how people would like it. And it has been a hit," said Rupp.
Many customers were walking out with several rings of kielbasi at a time. The closer to the holiday, the busier the shop gets, which means less product for the next person.
"I'm sure this goes for all the local kielbasi places. You know things are going to start selling out, and our last 300 pounds hits the smoker tomorrow morning. And once it's gone, it's gone," added Rupp.
Oprisko's will be open until 5 every evening through Saturday unless they sell out beforehand. Check the Oprisko Kielbasa Facebook page for updates.