Grilled Brats(With Onion Sauerkraut Relish)
Juicy grilled bratwurst topped with a tangy onion sauerkraut relish, perfect for summer barbecues or casual gatherings, offering bold flavors and satisfying comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sugar; cook, stirring constantly, until mixture turns a light caramel color, about 10 minutes.
- Add chopped onions, drained sauerkraut, and salt; cook over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add cider vinegar and caraway seed; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Heat grill.
- Grill bratwurst until cooked through and nicely charred.
- Place each bratwurst in a bun and top with the onion sauerkraut relish before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a darker beer in the relish. You can substitute bratwurst with Hot Smokie Links for a spicier kick. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bratwurst can be grilled quickly. Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference, or use honey as a natural alternative. Always stir the mixture well to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled brats with a side of Apple And Orange Slaw for a refreshing contrast. They also pair beautifully with Icebox Bread And Butter Pickles for an extra crunch. Offer a variety of mustards for dipping, and consider serving with chips or a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover onion sauerkraut relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Bratwurst can be stored in the same manner but are best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Brats(With Onion Sauerkraut Relish) contains roughly 546 calories, with 12g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2177mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the onion sauerkraut relish ahead of time?
Yes, the onion sauerkraut relish can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
What type of beer is best for this recipe?
A lager or a light beer works well, but feel free to experiment with a dark beer for a richer flavor. The beer adds depth to the relish, so choose one that you enjoy drinking.
Can I substitute bratwurst with a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based bratwurst or any other vegan sausages available in the market. Just grill them according to package instructions, and serve them with the onion sauerkraut relish for a delicious vegetarian meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).