Bratwurst, commonly referred to as brats, are a popular type of German sausage known for their rich, savory flavor. Whether you’re grilling them at a summer barbecue or serving them at a festive gathering, brats are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of foods. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best foods to serve with brats, ensuring your meal is both delicious and well-balanced.
What Food Goes Well with Brats?
Traditional Pairings
Traditional pairings with brats often include classic German sides that complement the robust flavors of the sausage.
Sauerkraut: Tangy and Crisp
Sauerkraut, a fermented cabbage dish, is a quintessential German side that pairs perfectly with brats. Its tangy flavor and crisp texture provide a great contrast to the savory sausage.
Table 1: Nutritional Information of Sauerkraut
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 19 |
| Carbohydrates | 4.3g |
| Fiber | 2.9g |
| Vitamin C | 14.7mg |
| Sodium | 661mg |
Potato Salad: Creamy and Filling
German potato salad, typically made with a tangy vinegar dressing or a creamy mayonnaise base, is another traditional side that complements brats. The hearty potatoes balance the rich flavors of the sausage.
Table 2: Types of German Potato Salad
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Vinegar-Based | Made with a tangy vinegar and oil dressing, served warm |
| Creamy | Made with mayonnaise or sour cream, served cold |
Modern Pairings
Modern pairings with brats include a variety of innovative and delicious options that can add a unique twist to your meal.
Coleslaw: Refreshing and Crunchy
Coleslaw, made from shredded cabbage and a tangy dressing, offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the savory flavors of brats.
Table 3: Popular Coleslaw Variations
| Variation | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Classic Coleslaw | Cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar |
| Spicy Coleslaw | Cabbage, jalapeños, lime juice, cilantro, sour cream |
| Asian Coleslaw | Cabbage, sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger |
Grilled Vegetables: Healthy and Flavorful
Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, add a healthy and flavorful element to your bratwurst meal. Their smoky char enhances the overall taste.
Table 4: Best Vegetables for Grilling
| Vegetable | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|
| Bell Peppers | Slice into strips, toss with olive oil and salt |
| Onions | Cut into rings, brush with oil |
| Zucchini | Slice lengthwise, season with salt and pepper |
Regional Pairings
Regional pairings highlight the versatility of brats and how they can be enjoyed with different cuisines from around the world.
Midwest: Beer Cheese Dip
In the Midwest, brats are often paired with beer cheese dip, a rich and creamy dip made from beer and cheese. This pairing is perfect for game days and gatherings.
Table 5: Ingredients for Beer Cheese Dip
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beer | 1 cup |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Mustard Powder | 1 tsp |
Southern: Baked Beans
In the Southern United States, brats are frequently served with baked beans. The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans complement the savory brats.
Table 6: Traditional Baked Beans Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Navy Beans | 2 cups, cooked |
| Bacon | 4 slices, chopped |
| Onion | 1, diced |
| Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Molasses | 1/4 cup |
| Mustard | 2 tbsp |
Creative Pairings
For those looking to get creative, there are plenty of unique and delicious options to pair with brats.
Pretzel Buns: Soft and Salty
Pretzel buns are a fun and tasty alternative to regular hot dog buns. Their soft, chewy texture and salty exterior pair wonderfully with brats.
Table 7: Steps to Make Pretzel Buns
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Prepare Dough | Mix flour, yeast, salt, water, and sugar |
| Shape Buns | Form dough into bun shapes |
| Boil Buns | Boil in water with baking soda |
| Bake | Bake at 375°F until golden brown |
| Salt | Sprinkle with coarse salt |
Fruit Salsa: Sweet and Spicy
Fruit salsa, made from ingredients like mango, pineapple, and jalapeños, adds a sweet and spicy kick to your brats. It’s a refreshing and unexpected pairing.
Table 8: Mango Salsa Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mango | 2, diced |
| Red Onion | 1/2, diced |
| Jalapeño | 1, minced |
| Lime Juice | 2 tbsp |
| Cilantro | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
Beverages to Pair with Brats
Choosing the right beverage to pair with brats can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.
Beer: Classic and Versatile
Beer is a classic beverage to enjoy with brats. The carbonation and flavors complement the rich sausage.
Table 9: Best Beer Styles for Brats
| Beer Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Lager | Light and crisp, perfect for balancing rich flavors |
| IPA | Hoppy and bitter, pairs well with spicy toppings |
| Pilsner | Refreshing and slightly bitter, enhances savory notes |
Wine: Elegant and Complementary
For a more elegant option, wine can also pair well with brats. Choose wines that complement the flavors of the sausage.
Table 10: Wine Pairings for Brats
| Wine Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Riesling | Sweet and acidic, balances the savory brats |
| Pinot Noir | Light and fruity, complements the richness |
| Chardonnay | Buttery and oaky, enhances grilled flavors |
Tips for Perfect Bratwurst Preparation
To ensure your brats are perfectly cooked and delicious, follow these preparation tips.
Grilling Brats
Grilling is one of the best methods to cook brats, giving them a smoky flavor and a crisp exterior.
Table 11: Steps for Grilling Brats
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Preheat Grill | Heat to medium-high |
| Prepare Brats | Brush with oil to prevent sticking |
| Grill | Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally |
| Rest | Let rest for a few minutes before serving |
Boiling Brats
Boiling brats before grilling can ensure they are cooked evenly and remain juicy.
Table 12: Steps for Boiling Brats
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Boil Water | Bring a pot of water to a boil |
| Add Brats | Place brats in boiling water |
| Boil | Cook for 10-15 minutes |
| Grill | Finish on the grill for a crispy exterior |
Conclusion
Bratwurst is a versatile and flavorful sausage that pairs well with a variety of foods. Whether you prefer traditional German sides, modern dishes, regional favorites, or creative pairings, there are plenty of options to complement your brats. By exploring different combinations and preparation methods, you can create delicious and memorable meals that showcase the best of this beloved sausage.
FAQs
What are traditional sides to serve with brats?
Traditional sides include sauerkraut, German potato salad, and pretzel buns. These classic pairings complement the rich flavors of brats and create a well-rounded meal.
Can I pair brats with vegetarian options?
Yes, brats pair well with vegetarian options like grilled vegetables, coleslaw, and fruit salsa. These sides add freshness and variety to your meal.
What beverages go best with brats?
Beer is a classic choice, with lagers, IPAs, and pilsners being popular options. Wine can also pair well, with Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay complementing the flavors of brats.
How can I cook brats to perfection?
Grilling and boiling are two effective methods. Grilling gives brats a smoky flavor and crisp exterior, while boiling ensures they are cooked evenly and remain juicy.
Are there any creative pairings for brats?
Yes, creative pairings include beer cheese dip, baked beans, pretzel buns, and fruit salsa. These options add unique flavors and textures to your bratwurst meal.