Classic German sausage (pan-fried or grilled) served with tangy cooked sauerkraut.

Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

A quintessential German pairing featuring pan-fried or grilled pork sausages (Bratwurst) served alongside tangy, cooked fermented cabbage (Sauerkraut). Simple, hearty, and iconic.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 20-30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4-8 fresh Bratwurst sausages (depending on size and appetite)
• 1 tbsp cooking oil or butter (optional, for pan-frying)
• 1 (16-32 oz) jar or can sauerkraut, drained (rinse lightly if desired for less tang)
• 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
• 1 small apple, peeled and grated or finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth, beer, or water
• 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Good quality German mustard (for serving)
• Crusty rolls or bread (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook Sauerkraut: If adding onion/apple, heat 1 tbsp oil/butter in a saucepan or pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened (about 5 minutes). Add grated apple (if using) and cook 1 minute more. Add drained sauerkraut, broth/beer/water, and caraway seeds (if using). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cook Bratwurst:
3. Pan-Frying: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add bratwurst and cook, turning occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C). Reduce heat if browning too quickly.
4. Grilling: Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill bratwurst, turning occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Simmering (optional first step): Some prefer to simmer bratwurst in water or beer for 10 minutes before pan-frying or grilling to ensure they are cooked through, then browning them afterwards.
6. Serve: Serve hot bratwurst alongside the warm sauerkraut. Offer plenty of German mustard for dipping or spreading. Delicious served on its own or with crusty rolls.

### What makes it special?:*

This pairing is German comfort food at its finest. The rich, savory flavor of the bratwurst perfectly complements the tangy, slightly sour taste of the sauerkraut. It's a simple, satisfying meal enjoyed everywhere from German beer gardens and street food stalls to family dinner tables.