How to Broil Beer Brats
The "beer brat" is a classic Midwestern dish that hails from Wisconsin, a state with a large population of citizens of German heritage. Wisconsinites have combined the traditional German bratwurst sausage with beer to make this wonderfully juicy dish. Using beer (traditionally pilsner-style) as a poaching liquid infuses the brat with tasty complexity and makes for a natural flavor pairing. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Dutch oven
- 1 dozen Bratwurst
- 1 onion
- Kitchen knife
- Pilsner-style beer
- Kitchen tongs
- Grill
Instructions
-
-
1
Place the Dutch oven onto a stove and put the brats inside.
-
2
Chop the onion using the sharp kitchen knife. Feel free to chop coarsely as the onion is only used to add flavor to the beer and will be discarded later on. Add the onions to the pot.
-
-
3
Pour beer over the brats and onions so that it just covers the brats.
-
4
Bring the beer, onions and brats to a simmer.
-
5
Maintain a simmer for approximately 20 minutes or until the brats are cooked through, .
-
6
Remove the brats from the beer using the kitchen tongs. Discard the cooking liquid.
-
7
Grill the brats until golden brown to give them color and a slightly seared flavor.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Beer brats are typically served on hard rolls or Kaiser rolls, rather than simple hot dog buns. These buns have a more distinct crust that better suits bratwursts' hardier nature.
Traditional condiments that Wisconsinites like to pile on beer brats include caramelized onions, sauerkraut, whole grain mustard and ketchup.
A pilsner beer most commonly refers to a pale ale or light lager. Although the flavor of these beers is mild, some will contain hoppy notes.
Dutch ovens are also known as "casserole dishes." They are made of cast iron and are sometimes enameled.
Don't bring the beer to a full boil as this will cause the brats to split. If this does occur, don't worry; they may look less appealing, but will still taste delicious.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
