Bratwurst and sauerkraut are a classic combination that has been enjoyed for generations. These traditional German dishes have become a staple in many households around the world, particularly in the United States where they are commonly served at festivals and barbecue parties. However, figuring out what sides to serve with brats and sauerkraut can be overwhelming for many home cooks.
In this article, we will delve into the best sides to serve with brats and sauerkraut. Whether you prefer traditional or modern recipe ideas, we’ve got you covered with our list of flavorful and diverse options that will make your bratwurst and sauerkraut meal truly remarkable. So, grab a beer and let’s explore these delicious and easy-to-make side dishes that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Traditional Pairings: Brats with Classic Sauerkraut and Mustard
When it comes to brats and sauerkraut, there are few combinations as classic as pairing them together. This traditional pairing is often served with a generous dollop of mustard for added flavor. The tanginess of the sauerkraut and the saltiness of the bratwurst complement each other perfectly, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Sauerkraut, a fermented vegetable dish made with cabbage, has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries. Bratwurst, a type of sausage made with pork, beef, or veal, is also a commonly consumed food in Germany and is an accompaniment to most meals. When combined, the savory flavors of brats and the sour taste of sauerkraut blend together to create a harmonious taste that is truly unique. If you want to enjoy this dish in its traditional form, it is best served with some hot mustard on top.
American Twist: Cheddar Cheese Sauce and Grilled Peppers for Brats
For those who want to add an American twist to their brats and sauerkraut, cheddar cheese sauce and grilled peppers are the perfect accompaniments. The richness of the cheese sauce complements the smokiness of the brats while the grilled peppers provide a refreshing contrast to the tangy sauerkraut.
Making the cheddar cheese sauce is easy. Simply melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour until it turns into a paste, and then slowly add milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is thick and creamy. For the grilled peppers, toss sliced peppers in olive oil and grill them until they are slightly charred and tender. Serve the brats, sauerkraut, cheddar cheese sauce, and grilled peppers together and enjoy a delicious meal with a unique spin on a classic dish.
European Influences: German Potato Salad and Rye Bread as Bratwurst Complements
When it comes to pairing sides with bratwurst and sauerkraut, German potato salad and rye bread are classic European influences that simply can’t be ignored. German potato salad is a classic dish made with boiled potatoes, bacon, onions, and a tangy dressing of vinegar and mustard, making it the perfect complement for the rich flavors of bratwurst and sauerkraut.
Rye bread, on the other hand, is a dense and flavorful bread that pairs well with the strong flavors of sauerkraut and mustard. It’s commonly served toasted and buttered on the side of a bratwurst sandwich, providing a hearty and satisfying crunch. Combined with the flavors of sauerkraut and bratwurst, these classic European sides can transport you straight to Germany, making your meal an unforgettable culinary experience.
Vegetarian Alternatives: Roasted Vegetables and Vegan Sauerkraut for Brat Toppings
If you’re a vegetarian and looking for a great bratwurst addition to your meal, roasted vegetables and vegan sauerkraut are two great options. Roasting vegetables add a depth of flavor and brings out their natural sweetness, making them a delicious side dish for your brats. You can roast onions, peppers, or any other veggies you love. To do so, simply preheat your oven to 425°F, toss your veggies of choice in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes.
Vegan sauerkraut is another great way to add some tangy flavor to your brats without relying on traditional sausages. It’s not only healthier, but it’s also cruelty-free. You can make your vegan sauerkraut at home or buy it from the store. Add a dollop of vegan sour cream to add some creaminess to this tasty pairing and enjoy your delicious vegetarian brats. So, these are two great vegetarian alternatives that you can consider adding to your brats to enjoy a tasty and healthy meal.
Beverage Pairings: Beer and Hard Cider Suggestions to Accompany Brats and Sauerkraut
When it comes to pairing beverages with brats and sauerkraut, beer ranks at the top of the list for many. A cold brew complements the savory flavors of the brats and the tangy taste of the sauerkraut. The carbonation in the beer also helps to balance the richness of the dish. Some of the best beer styles to pair with brats and sauerkraut include light lagers, pilsners, and wheat beers. German beers like hefeweizen and Kölsch are especially fitting given the origins of the food. If you are looking to experiment with different flavors, try pairing the dish with an IPA or a sour beer.
If you prefer something with a little more kick, a hard cider is also a great option. The acidity in the cider helps to cut through the richness of the brats, while the effervescence complements the sauerkraut. Apple ciders are the most popular choice, but you can also explore flavors like pear or cherry. If you want to try something a little different, consider a cider with a higher alcohol content, like a cider from a craft distillery. A refreshing beer or a crisp cider is the perfect way to complete your brats and sauerkraut meal.
Regional Specialties: Wisconsin Cheese and Onion Sauce with Brats, Carolina Slaw with Sauerkraut
Wisconsin is renowned for its cheese, and it is a perfect side dish for brats. You can have a variety of options ranging from cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, and pepper jack cheese. You can either opt to use shredded or sliced cheese and top it on the brats or melt it on the brats and buns in the oven or on a grill. To take it up a notch, you can also prepare some onion sauce to add to the brats. The onion sauce is made with beer, onions, and butter and can be simmered until it is thick and syrupy.
On the other hand, Sauerkraut goes perfectly with Carolina Slaw, which is a tangy and refreshing side dish. The Carolina slaw is made with cabbage, green pepper, carrot, and a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar. The sweetness of the dressing and sourness of sauerkraut create a perfect balance of flavors. This colorful, zesty dish is ideal for hot weather and complements the rich and savory flavors of sausages. Both of these regional specialties are must-try side dishes with brats and Sauerkraut if you’re looking to level up your traditional brat meal.
Creative Recipes: Bratwurst Nachos, Sauerkraut Grilled Cheese, and Other Unique Combinations.
If you’re looking to switch up your traditional bratwurst and sauerkraut sides, try incorporating them into unique and creative recipes. One delicious option is bratwurst nachos. Simply fry up some sliced bratwurst and layer it over tortilla chips with melted cheese, sauerkraut, jalapeños, and salsa. This dish brings some classic German flavors to a Mexican-inspired dish, making it a hit for any occasion.
Another fun way to incorporate sauerkraut is in a grilled cheese sandwich. Add some sliced bratwurst and sauerkraut to your basic grilled cheese recipe and enjoy the ultimate comfort food. The bratwurst gives the sandwich a meaty flavor, while the sauerkraut adds a tangy crunch. These unique combinations are sure to impress your guests and add some variety to your typical bratwurst and sauerkraut meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bratwurst and sauerkraut make for an incredibly tasty and satisfying meal. The tangy and flavorful sauerkraut pairs perfectly with the juicy and savory brats. Whether you choose to serve them on a bun or as a main course with a variety of sides, bratwurst and sauerkraut are sure to please everyone at the table.
While traditional sides such as potatoes and bread are great choices to serve alongside brats and sauerkraut, there are also many other creative and delicious options. From grilled vegetables to creamy mac and cheese, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sides to create a truly unique and enjoyable meal. With the right sides, brats and sauerkraut can be a flavorful and versatile meal that is perfect for any occasion.