Ultimate Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut
This Ultimate Grilled Bratwurst recipe elevates the classic cookout staple to new heights with a perfect balance of flavors. Forget the overly complicated beer-boiling techniques adorned with unnecessary additives. Instead, we focus on premium bratwursts paired with a refreshing weiss beer that enhances the meaty flavor of the sausages. Grilled to perfection, these brats boast a savory burnt crust, while a crisp and tangy sauerkraut elevates each bite. Slather them in your favorite mustard and serve in crunchy French rolls for an unforgettable lunch or snack experience. Gather your friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy a taste of summer, anytime!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bratwurst
4 (Johnsonville bratwursts, uncooked)
Weiss Beer
1 (12 ounce) bottle (do not use Coors, Miller, Miller Lite, or Bud; a wheat beer is recommended)
Mustard
to taste (for serving)
Sauerkraut
1 cup (preferably Frank's, drained)
French Rolls
4 (must be crunchy; Turano's is recommended)
Instructions
1
Begin by placing the bratwursts in a saucepan and pour in a full bottle of weiss beer, ensuring the sausages are completely submerged.
2
Bring the beer to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let the brats simmer for about 10 minutes until they turn gray and foam a little.
3
While the brats are simmering, prepare your grill. Charcoal is recommended for that perfect smoky flavor, but any grill will do in a pinch.
4
Next, take a piece of aluminum foil and fold it into a secure packet. Using a fork, carefully transfer 1 cup of sauerkraut from the can/jar into the packet, sealing it tightly to prevent any leaks.
5
Once the brats have simmered, carefully transfer them, along with the sealed sauerkraut packet, to the preheated grill. Position the sauerkraut packet over indirect heat or on a grilling rack.
6
Grill the bratwursts for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they achieve a nice golden-brown color with grill marks. Adjust cooking time based on your preferred level of char.
7
During the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, place the French rolls on the grill, slightly open and facing down, allowing them to toast until they're warm and crisp.
8
Serve your grilled bratwursts in the toasted rolls with a generous dollop of mustard and the hot sauerkraut on the side. Remember, ketchup is forbidden—serve only with mustard!
9
Finally, enjoy the rest of the beer as you revel in the deliciousness you've created!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein used in this recipe?
The primary protein used is uncooked bratwurst, specifically recommending Johnsonville brand.
What type of beer should I use for simmering the bratwurst?
A Weiss beer (wheat beer) is recommended. You should avoid light beers like Coors, Miller, Miller Lite, or Bud.
How long should the bratwursts simmer in the beer?
The bratwursts should simmer for approximately 10 minutes until they turn gray and produce a light foam.
What brand of sauerkraut is recommended?
The recipe suggests using Frank's sauerkraut, which should be drained before use.
How is the sauerkraut prepared for the grill?
Place 1 cup of drained sauerkraut into an aluminum foil packet and seal it tightly to prevent leaks.
What type of grill is best for this recipe?
While any grill works, a charcoal grill is recommended to achieve the best smoky flavor.
Is ketchup allowed as a condiment?
No, the recipe explicitly states that ketchup is forbidden; serve only with mustard.
What kind of rolls should be used for serving?
Crunchy French rolls are required, with Turano's brand being the specific recommendation.
How long do the bratwursts need to be on the grill?
Grill the bratwursts for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden-brown with grill marks.
Where should the sauerkraut packet be placed on the grill?
Position the sealed sauerkraut packet over indirect heat or on a grilling rack.
How should the French rolls be toasted?
Place them on the grill slightly open and facing down during the last 2-3 minutes of grilling until warm and crisp.
What makes this recipe 'Ultimate'?
It focuses on premium ingredients and simple techniques rather than overly complicated beer-boiling with additives.
Can I use pre-cooked bratwursts?
The recipe specifically calls for uncooked bratwursts to be simmered in beer first.
How many bratwursts does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed for 4 bratwursts and 4 French rolls.
What should I do with the remaining beer after simmering?
The recipe suggests enjoying the rest of the beer while you eat your meal.
Should the bratwursts be fully submerged in beer?
Yes, ensure the sausages are completely submerged in the saucepan before boiling.
What flavor profile does the weiss beer provide?
The weiss beer enhances the meaty flavor of the sausages without adding unnecessary additives.
What is the desired texture of the grilled bratwurst?
The goal is a savory burnt crust on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
How do you seal the sauerkraut foil packet?
Fold the aluminum foil into a secure packet and seal the edges tightly to prevent any juice from leaking.
Is this considered a German cuisine recipe?
Yes, it is tagged under German cuisine due to the use of bratwurst, sauerkraut, and beer.
Can I use a gas grill?
Yes, any grill will work in a pinch, though charcoal is preferred for flavor.
How much sauerkraut is needed per bratwurst?
The recipe uses 1 cup of sauerkraut total for 4 bratwursts, which is about 1/4 cup per serving.
What is the recommended heat level for boiling the beer?
Bring the beer to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
Are there any specific spices added to the beer bath?
No, this recipe avoids unnecessary additives and focuses on the beer and meat quality.
What is the serving suggestion for the sauerkraut?
It should be served hot, either on the side or directly on the bratwurst inside the roll.
What tags define this recipe's occasion?
It is tagged for grilling, summer recipes, easy lunch, and snacks.
How do I know the beer simmer is working?
The bratwursts will turn gray in color and a small amount of foam will develop in the pot.
Is any specific type of mustard recommended?
The recipe says to use your 'favorite mustard,' though it emphasizes that mustard is the only acceptable condiment.
Does this recipe contain nutritional information?
The current data does not provide specific calorie or macronutrient counts.
Can I prepare the rolls differently?
The recipe highly recommends toasting them face down on the grill to ensure they are warm and crunchy.