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Recipes Nugget Market Signature Recipes

Beer-Braised Brats with Sauerkraut

Prep time
10 minutes PT10M
Cook time
30–40 minutes PT30–40M
Yield
4 servings
Difficulty
1 out of 5 on the difficulty scale
Sliced fresh to market beer and bratwurst sausages simmered with caramelized onions, sauerkraut and bay leaves in a cast iron skillet, served with mugs of beer alongside.

Bratwurst and sauerkraut are an iconic pairing—up the ante with our Meat Department's scratch-made sausages!

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 pound Fresh to Market Bratwurst Sausages
  • 2 ounces thin-sliced yellow onion
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1 jar (32 ounces) sauerkraut, drained
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1 bottle (12 ounces) pilsner or lager beer
  • ½ cup beef or chicken stock
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Spicy brown mustard, for serving

Preparation

Heat vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the bratwurst and sear until browned on all sides, 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized, 8–10 minutes.

Stir in the drained sauerkraut and caraway seeds (if desired). Return the bratwurst to the pan. Pour in the beer and stock, then add the bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Partially cover and braise until the bratwurst reach an internal temperature of 160°F and the liquid has reduced slightly, 15–20 minutes.

Remove from heat and swirl in the butter until melted. Remove bay leaves and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serve bratwurst whole or sliced, nestled in the sauerkraut and onions, with spicy brown mustard on the side.