Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and Mustard on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Bratwurst with sauerkraut is a classic German dish that combines savory sausages with tangy fermented cabbage. When cooked on the Arteflame grill, the bratwursts develop a smoky flavor and a perfect char, making this a delicious and hearty meal that's great for outdoor cooking.

Ingredients

For the Bratwurst:

• 6 bratwurst sausages
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauerkraut:

• 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 apple, peeled and grated
• 1/2 cup white wine or apple cider
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• Mustard (Dijon or whole-grain)
• Pretzel rolls or crusty bread
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Preheat your Arteflame grill to medium-high heat. You'll be grilling the bratwurst directly on the flat cooktop while preparing the sauerkraut on the cooler side.

2. Prepare the Sauerkraut

In a heatproof skillet or cast-iron pan, melt the butter on the cooler side of the grill. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the grated apple and cook for another 3 minutes.

Stir in the drained sauerkraut, white wine or apple cider, and caraway seeds (if using). Season with salt and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer on the cooler side of the grill, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is heated through and the flavors have melded, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Grill the Bratwurst

Brush the bratwursts with vegetable oil to prevent sticking, then place them directly on the hot flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill. Grill the sausages for about 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until they are evenly browned and cooked through.

4. Serve

Serve the grilled bratwursts on a plate alongside a generous serving of sauerkraut. Offer mustard on the side for dipping, and serve with pretzel rolls or crusty bread. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

• Grill Temperature: Keep the grill at medium-high heat to ensure the sausages cook evenly without burning.
• Sauerkraut Additions: For a richer flavor, you can add a small amount of bacon or smoked pork to the sauerkraut while it simmers.
• Sausage Varieties: You can substitute bratwurst with other types of German sausages, like Weisswurst or Knackwurst, if preferred.

Variations

1. Cheese-Stuffed Bratwurst: Add a slice of cheese to the inside of each bratwurst before grilling for a gooey, melty surprise.
2. Spicy Bratwurst: Serve with a spicy mustard or add red pepper flakes to the sauerkraut for a kick.
3. Beer-Braised Bratwurst: Simmer the bratwursts in beer before grilling for extra flavor.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst: Wrap each bratwurst in bacon before grilling for a crispy, savory twist.
5. Vegetarian Bratwurst: Use plant-based sausages and vegan butter to make a vegetarian version of this dish.

Best Pairings

• Drink: Pair with a cold German beer, such as a lager, pilsner, or hefeweizen.
• Side Dish: Serve with German potato salad, spaetzle, or roasted potatoes.
• Dessert: Finish the meal with a traditional German dessert like apple strudel or Black Forest cake.

Conclusion

Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut is a delicious and satisfying German dish that's perfect for grilling season. The smoky, juicy sausages pair perfectly with the tangy, warm sauerkraut, making this a meal that's sure to please. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy dinner, this classic dish brings the flavors of Germany to your table.