Beer Braised Bratwurst Recipe
Before we dive into the flavors and textures of beer braised bratwurst, let’s talk pairings. This dish is a symphony of taste, making it perfect for enhancing your dining experience. Grab a refreshing side of crunchy coleslaw; its tangy bite balances the savory richness of the bratwurst.
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 6 links of bratwurst sausage
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons of neutral cooking oil
- 1 12 oz bottle of craft lager or your favorite mild beer
- 2 medium golden onions finely sliced
- ½ teaspoon of sea salt
For Serving
- Warm tangy sauerkraut
- 6 toasted hoagie rolls or artisan-style hot dog buns
- Stone-ground mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the onions thin and have everything ready to go. The more organized you are, the smoother the cooking will be.
Step 2: Sear the Bratwurst
- In a large skillet, heat the neutral oil over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst. Sear each link for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re browned on all sides. This not only adds flavor but also seals in the juices for an even tastier experience.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
- Remove the bratwurst from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, toss in the sliced onions. Stir them often for about eight minutes. You want them to be golden, soft, and sweet. Add the brown sugar and sea salt during the last minute to help caramelization.
Step 4: Add the Beer
- Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, pour the beer into the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Add the bratwurst back into the pan. Don’t worry about the foam; it will settle down.
Step 5: Braise
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 30 minutes. The sausages will absorb the flavors of the beer and onions. Feel free to stir occasionally.
Step 6: Serve!
- When everything is cooked through, it’s time to enjoy! Place the bratwurst in toasted hoagie rolls and top with the caramelized onions. A dollop of stone-ground mustard adds a nice zing.
Notes
- Quality Matters: Choose high-quality bratwurst for the best results. It makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Pick Your Beer Wisely: A milder beer works best, but you can experiment with different types for varied flavors.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply reheat before serving.
- Watch the Heat: Keep the simmer low. Too much heat may toughen the sausages.
- Serve it Up: Don’t hesitate to customize your toppings. Sauerkraut, crispy onions, or coleslaw go wonderfully.
Nutrition
Calories: 357kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 5gFat: 17.5gCholesterol: 21mgSodium: 869mgFiber: 1gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 1IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 5mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!