Bratwurst, often referred to simply as brats, is a type of German sausage known for its savory flavor and juicy texture. Whether you’re grilling them at a barbecue, cooking them on the stove, or baking them in the oven, brats are a favorite for many. However, to create a truly memorable meal, it’s essential to pair brats with the right sides and accompaniments. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what goes well with brats, offering a variety of sides and pairings that will elevate your dining experience. From classic German sides to creative twists, discover how to complement your brats perfectly.
What Goes Well with Brats?
Classic German Sides
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a traditional German side dish made from fermented cabbage. Its tangy flavor and crunchy texture make it a perfect match for brats.
Best Ways to Serve Sauerkraut with Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Sauerkraut | Cabbage, salt, caraway seeds | Tangy and crunchy |
| Bavarian Sweet Sauerkraut | Cabbage, sugar, apple, onion | Sweet and tangy |
| Beer-Braised Sauerkraut | Cabbage, beer, bacon, onions | Rich and flavorful |
German Potato Salad
German potato salad is a warm, vinegar-based potato salad that pairs excellently with brats.
Best Ways to Serve German Potato Salad with Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Potato Salad | Potatoes, bacon, vinegar, onions | Tangy and savory |
| Swabian Potato Salad | Potatoes, beef broth, vinegar, mustard | Light and flavorful |
| Bavarian Potato Salad | Potatoes, bacon, onions, broth | Rich and hearty |
Bread Pairings
Pretzel Rolls
Pretzel rolls are a soft, chewy bread with a slightly salty exterior, making them an excellent pairing for brats.
Best Ways to Serve Pretzel Rolls with Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Pretzel Rolls | Flour, yeast, baking soda, salt | Soft and chewy |
| Cheddar Stuffed Pretzel Rolls | Flour, yeast, cheddar cheese, salt | Cheesy and delicious |
| Herb Pretzel Rolls | Flour, yeast, herbs, salt | Aromatic and flavorful |
Rye Bread
Rye bread, with its dense texture and slightly tangy flavor, complements the savory taste of brats perfectly.
Best Ways to Serve Rye Bread with Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Rye Bread | Rye flour, caraway seeds, yeast | Dense and flavorful |
| Pumpernickel | Rye flour, molasses, yeast | Dark and rich |
| Marble Rye | Rye flour, wheat flour, molasses, caraway seeds | Unique and tasty |
Vegetable Sides
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables add a smoky and charred flavor that pairs wonderfully with brats.
Best Grilled Vegetables to Pair with Brats:
| Vegetable | Seasoning | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bell Peppers | Olive oil, salt, pepper | Sweet and smoky |
| Zucchini | Olive oil, garlic, herbs | Tender and flavorful |
| Asparagus | Olive oil, lemon, salt | Crisp and fresh |
Cabbage Slaw
Cabbage slaw provides a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of brats.
Best Cabbage Slaw Variations for Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Cabbage Slaw | Cabbage, carrots, mayo, vinegar | Creamy and tangy |
| Red Cabbage Slaw | Red cabbage, apples, vinegar | Sweet and tangy |
| Spicy Cabbage Slaw | Cabbage, jalapeños, lime, cilantro | Zesty and spicy |
Starchy Sides
French Fries
French fries are a popular side that pairs perfectly with brats, offering a crispy and salty contrast.
Best French Fry Variations for Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic French Fries | Potatoes, salt, oil | Crispy and golden |
| Garlic Parmesan Fries | Potatoes, garlic, Parmesan, parsley | Flavorful and aromatic |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet potatoes, salt, oil | Sweet and savory |
Spaetzle
Spaetzle are soft egg noodles that provide a comforting and hearty side for brats.
Best Spaetzle Variations for Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Spaetzle | Flour, eggs, milk, butter | Soft and buttery |
| Cheese Spaetzle (Käsespätzle) | Flour, eggs, milk, cheese, onions | Rich and cheesy |
| Herb Spaetzle | Flour, eggs, milk, herbs | Fresh and aromatic |
Creative Pairings
Pickles
Pickles add a tangy and crunchy element that complements the savory brats.
Best Pickle Variations for Brats:
| Pickle Type | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Dill Pickles | Cucumbers, dill, garlic, vinegar | Tangy and garlicky |
| Bread and Butter Pickles | Cucumbers, sugar, vinegar, spices | Sweet and tangy |
| Spicy Pickles | Cucumbers, chili peppers, garlic, vinegar | Hot and tangy |
Baked Beans
Baked beans provide a sweet and savory side that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavor of brats.
Best Baked Bean Variations for Brats:
| Dish | Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Baked Beans | Beans, molasses, bacon, onions | Sweet and smoky |
| Boston Baked Beans | Beans, molasses, mustard, pork | Rich and flavorful |
| Spicy Baked Beans | Beans, chili peppers, bacon, onions | Sweet and spicy |
Beverage Pairings
Beer
Beer is a classic beverage pairing for brats, offering a variety of flavors that enhance the meal.
Best Beer Pairings for Brats:
| Beer Type | Notes | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Lager | Crisp and refreshing | Pilsner, Helles Lager |
| Wheat Beer | Light and fruity | Hefeweizen, Witbier |
| IPA | Hoppy and bitter | India Pale Ale, Double IPA |
Cider
Cider offers a crisp and slightly sweet beverage option that pairs well with the savory brats.
Best Cider Pairings for Brats:
| Cider Type | Notes | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Cider | Crisp and refreshing | Strongbow, Angry Orchard Dry |
| Sweet Cider | Sweet and fruity | Woodchuck Amber, Crispin Pacific Pear |
| Spiced Cider | Warm and aromatic | Rekorderlig Spiced Apple, Ciderboys Mad Bark |
Conclusion
Pairing your brats with the right sides and accompaniments can elevate a simple meal into a culinary delight. Whether you prefer classic German sides like sauerkraut and potato salad, or creative pairings like pickles and baked beans, there are countless ways to complement the rich, savory flavor of brats. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match, and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors in every bite.
FAQs
What are the best vegetables to serve with brats?
Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus are excellent vegetable sides for brats. Cabbage slaw also pairs well, providing a refreshing crunch.
Can I serve brats with pasta?
Yes, spaetzle, a type of soft egg noodle, is a traditional and excellent pairing for brats. It provides a comforting and hearty side.
What type of beer goes best with brats?
Lagers, wheat beers, and IPAs are great beer options that pair well with brats. Each type offers unique flavors that complement the savory sausage.
Is bread a good side dish for brats?
Absolutely! Pretzel rolls and rye bread are classic choices that pair wonderfully with brats, adding a chewy and flavorful contrast.
Can I serve brats with a salad?
Yes, a fresh cabbage slaw or a light green salad can provide a crunchy and refreshing side that balances the rich flavor of brats.