Classic German Bratwurst
Authentic German grilled pork sausages, a quintessential beer garden favorite, best served with hearty mustard and warm sauerkraut.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 Bratwurst sausages(Look for good quality pork bratwurst. Regional variations exist, so choose your favorite.)
- 300 g Sauerkraut(Pre-packaged or homemade. Can be served cold or heated.)
- for serving German mustard(A coarse-grain or Dijon-style mustard is traditional. Avoid sweet mustard for this classic preparation.)
- 4 Crusty bread rolls(Such as Kaiser rolls or a hearty German Brötchen.)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil or butter(Optional, for pan-frying.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Bratwurst: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 200-230°C / 400-450°F). If pan-frying, heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the optional oil or butter if pan-frying.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Cook the Bratwurst: Place the bratwurst sausages on the hot grill grates or in the hot skillet. Do not pierce the sausages, as this will release their flavorful juices. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 3
Turn frequently for even browning: Using tongs, turn the sausages every few minutes to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. You are looking for a deep golden-brown color and the sausages should feel firm to the touch.
⏱️ during cooking - 4
Heat the Sauerkraut (Optional): While the sausages are cooking, gently warm the sauerkraut in a small saucepan over low heat, or microwave it according to package directions. Stir occasionally until heated through. If you prefer cold sauerkraut, skip this step.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Assemble and Serve: Once the bratwurst are cooked and nicely browned, remove them from the heat. Slice the bread rolls horizontally, but not all the way through, creating a hinge. Place one cooked bratwurst in each roll. Top generously with warm (or cold) sauerkraut and a dollop of German mustard.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Do not pierce the sausages before or during cooking, as this will cause them to lose their juices and become dry.
- ✓Bratwurst have many regional varieties in Germany, each with its own unique spice blend and texture. Experiment to find your favorite!
- ✓Bratwurst are traditionally enjoyed with a cold German beer, such as a Märzen or Pilsner.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Currywurst: Slice cooked bratwurst and top with a spicy curry ketchup sauce.
- Weißwurst: A Bavarian white sausage, traditionally boiled and eaten before noon with sweet mustard and a pretzel.