Bratwurst with sauerkraut is a beloved combination in German cuisine. Bratwurst, a flavorful sausage made from pork, beef, or veal, is often paired with tangy, fermented sauerkraut to create a deliciously balanced dish. This hearty meal is especially popular during Oktoberfest and other German celebrations, but it’s equally enjoyable year-round. The combination of savory sausage with the unique, zesty bite of sauerkraut makes it a favorite comfort food.
Here’s how you can make this classic dish at home!
Ingredients:
For 4 servings, you will need:
For the Bratwurst:
4 bratwurst sausages (pork or veal preferred)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup beer (preferably a German lager or pilsner)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for an authentic touch)
For the Sauerkraut:
2 cups sauerkraut (store-bought or homemade, drained)
1 small apple, peeled and grated
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauerkraut
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the grated apple and cook for 2-3 minutes until it softens slightly.
Stir in the sauerkraut, brown sugar, caraway seeds (if using), and broth.
Simmer the mixture on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
Add the apple cider vinegar toward the end of cooking, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.
2. Cook the Bratwurst
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and golden.
Push the onions to the side of the skillet and add the bratwursts. Sear the sausages on all sides until they are browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Once the sausages are browned, add the beer and mustard to the skillet, along with the optional caraway seeds. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the skillet and let the sausages simmer in the beer for about 10-12 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and have absorbed the flavors from the beer and mustard.
3. Serve
Serve the bratwursts on a platter with the sauerkraut alongside or underneath.
Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or mustard on the side for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
Bratwurst with sauerkraut is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:
German Potato Salad:
A warm potato salad made with vinegar and bacon complements the dish perfectly.
Pretzel Rolls: Soft pretzel rolls or buns are great for making bratwurst sandwiches.
Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy mashed potatoes help balance the richness of the sausage.
Mustard:
Serve with German mustard varieties such as Dijon or whole-grain mustard for added flavor.
Tips for Success:
Beer Choice:
For a truly authentic flavor, choose a German beer, like a lager or pilsner. It adds depth to the bratwurst and creates a subtle sweetness. If you don’t have beer, broth or water can be substituted.
Sauerkraut Variations:
Adding caraway seeds to sauerkraut is optional but gives the dish a more traditional taste. You can also add sliced bacon or kielbasa to the sauerkraut for an extra layer of flavor.
Grilling the Bratwurst:
If you prefer grilled bratwurst, simply grill them on medium heat until browned, then serve with the sauerkraut on the side.
Final Thoughts:
German Bratwurst with sauerkraut is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with traditional tastes. The savory, juicy bratwurst pairs perfectly with the sharp and slightly sweet sauerkraut, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating Oktoberfest or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe brings a taste of Germany to your table. Enjoy with a cold beer and some mustard, and you’ll be transported to the heart of Bavaria!
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