Delicious and Authentic: Try our Traditional German Recipe for Bratwurst with Sauerkraut!

There's nothing like indulging in a truly delicious and authentic dish that transports you to another culture. And when it comes to German cuisine, the Bratwurst with Sauerkraut is undoubtedly a top contender. This classic combination of juicy sausages and tangy fermented cabbage is a beloved staple in Germany and has gained popularity all over the world. So, if you're in the mood for some comfort food with a German twist, look no further – we've got you covered with this traditional recipe.

The Perfect Bratwurst

Before diving into the recipe, it's worth appreciating the star of the dish – the Bratwurst. These German sausages are typically made from a mixture of ground pork, veal, or beef, seasoned with a blend of spices such as marjoram, caraway, and nutmeg. The result is a juicy and flavorful sausage that pairs perfectly with the tanginess of sauerkraut. While you can find pre-made Bratwurst in many grocery stores, there's nothing quite like making your own from scratch.

For making homemade Bratwurst, start by gathering the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of ground pork

  • 1 pound of ground veal or beef

  • 1 tablespoon of salt

  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon of marjoram

  • 1/2 teaspoon of caraway seeds

  • 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg

  • Hog casings

To prepare the Bratwurst mixture:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork and veal or beef.

  2. Add the salt, black pepper, marjoram, caraway seeds, and nutmeg to the meat mixture.

  3. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together until well combined.

  4. Once the mixture is ready, it's time to stuff the sausages into casings. Soak the hog casings in water for about 30 minutes to soften them before using.

  5. Attach a sausage stuffer or piping bag with a wide nozzle to the casing and fill it with the meat mixture.

  6. Carefully twist the filled casing to form individual sausages, leaving spaces between each twist.

  7. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut the sausages at the twists.

Voila! You now have your homemade Bratwurst ready to be cooked and enjoyed.

Simmered to Perfection: Preparing the Sauerkraut

No Bratwurst is complete without its traditional companion – Sauerkraut. This fermented cabbage dish adds a zesty and slightly sour flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the sausages. While sauerkraut can be found in a jar or can, nothing beats the taste of homemade sauerkraut.

To make your own Sauerkraut, you'll need:

  • 1 medium-sized cabbage

  • 2 tablespoons of salt

  • 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds

  • 1 teaspoon of juniper berries (optional)

Here's how you can prepare it:

  1. Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and shred it finely using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, salt, caraway seeds, and juniper berries.

  3. Massage and squeeze the cabbage mixture with your hands for a few minutes. This process helps release the natural juices and creates the brine needed for fermentation.

  4. Transfer the cabbage mixture to a clean jar or a fermentation crock, pressing it down firmly to remove any air bubbles and ensure the cabbage is submerged in its own brine.

  5. Cover the jar loosely with a clean cloth or a fermentation lid.

  6. Allow the sauerkraut to ferment at room temperature for at least 1-2 weeks, depending on your preferred level of acidity. Be sure to check on it regularly and skim off any foam or scum that may form on the surface.

  7. Once the sauerkraut reaches your desired flavor, transfer it to airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for several months.

With your homemade Bratwurst and Sauerkraut ready, it's time to bring them together to create a truly mouthwatering dish.

The Final Assembly

Cooking Bratwurst with Sauerkraut is a relatively simple process that involves simmering the sausages in a flavorful liquid, allowing them to soak up the deliciousness. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. In a large pot, combine 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, 1 chopped onion, 2 crushed garlic cloves, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, and a pinch of both salt and pepper.

  2. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat.

  3. Add the Bratwurst sausages to the pot and cover it partially.

  4. Allow the sausages to cook in the simmering liquid for about 20-25 minutes or until they are fully cooked through.

  5. While the sausages are cooking, prepare your side dishes. Boiled potatoes or buttered bread are classic accompaniments to Bratwurst with Sauerkraut.

  6. Once the sausages are cooked, remove them from the pot and transfer them to a preheated grill or skillet.

  7. Grill or pan-fry the sausages for a few minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.

  8. Serve the grilled Bratwurst alongside a generous spoonful of homemade Sauerkraut, and don't forget some mustard for an extra kick!

Now, all that's left is to dig in and savor the flavors of Germany with this delicious and authentic Bratwurst with Sauerkraut recipe. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a hearty meal, this traditional German dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the mouthwatering delight that awaits!