Bratwurst, those juicy, flavorful sausages, are a staple at cookouts, tailgates, and casual dinners alike. But while the brat itself is undeniably delicious, it’s the toppings that truly elevate the experience. So, what should you put on brats? The answer, thankfully, is delightfully diverse. From classic combinations to creative concoctions, this guide will explore the best bratwurst toppings to satisfy every palate.
Classic Bratwurst Toppings: A Foundation of Flavor
Let’s begin with the classics – the toppings that have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by bratwurst enthusiasts everywhere. These options are reliable, readily available, and guaranteed to enhance the flavor of your brat.
Mustard: The Indispensable Condiment
Mustard is arguably the most essential bratwurst topping. Its tangy, slightly spicy kick cuts through the richness of the sausage, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. But which mustard should you choose?
There are countless varieties, each offering a unique profile. Yellow mustard is a classic choice, known for its mild flavor and bright color. Dijon mustard brings a more sophisticated, complex flavor with a hint of acidity. Stone-ground mustard offers a rustic texture and robust, earthy taste. And for those who like a bit of heat, spicy brown mustard is a perfect option. Experiment to find your favorite!
Onions: Sweet and Savory Perfection
Sautéed onions are another quintessential bratwurst topping. Their sweetness complements the savory nature of the sausage, adding depth and complexity to each bite.
To prepare sautéed onions, slice them thinly and cook them in a pan with a little butter or oil over medium heat until they are soft and golden brown. For a deeper, sweeter flavor, caramelize the onions by cooking them over low heat for a longer period, stirring frequently. The slow cooking process breaks down the sugars in the onions, resulting in a rich, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor.
Sauerkraut: A Tangy Twist
Sauerkraut, fermented cabbage, is a traditional German accompaniment to bratwurst. Its tangy, slightly sour flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sausage.
Look for sauerkraut that has been properly fermented for the best flavor and probiotic benefits. You can find it in jars or cans at most grocery stores. Before adding it to your brat, consider heating it up slightly to enhance its flavor. Some people also like to add a touch of caraway seeds or juniper berries to the sauerkraut for an extra layer of flavor.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your Bratwurst Game
Once you’ve mastered the classic toppings, it’s time to explore some more creative and exciting options. These toppings will take your bratwurst game to the next level, offering a variety of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Peppers: A Spicy Kick
Adding peppers to your bratwurst is a great way to introduce some heat and flavor. Jalapeños, banana peppers, and bell peppers are all excellent choices.
Jalapeños offer a moderate level of heat, while banana peppers are milder and slightly sweet. Bell peppers, available in a variety of colors, provide a sweet and crunchy contrast to the sausage. You can slice the peppers and sauté them with onions for a flavorful topping, or you can pickle them for a tangy and crunchy addition.
Relish: A Sweet and Tangy Delight
Relish is a classic condiment that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to bratwurst. There are many different types of relish to choose from, each offering a unique flavor profile.
Dill relish is a classic choice, offering a refreshing and slightly sour flavor. Sweet relish is sweeter and more mild, while hot dog relish is often a combination of sweet and spicy flavors. Experiment with different types of relish to find your favorite.
Cheese: Melty, Gooey Goodness
Adding cheese to your bratwurst is a surefire way to elevate its flavor and texture. The melty, gooey goodness of the cheese complements the savory flavor of the sausage perfectly.
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, offering a sharp and tangy flavor. Swiss cheese is another popular option, known for its mild and nutty flavor. Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick, while provolone cheese offers a creamy and slightly salty flavor. Shred the cheese and sprinkle it over the bratwurst while it’s still hot, or melt it in a pan before adding it to the bun.
Spicy Options: For the Heat Seekers
For those who enjoy a fiery kick, there are plenty of spicy toppings to choose from. These options will add a significant amount of heat to your bratwurst, satisfying even the most ardent spice lovers.
Sriracha sauce is a popular choice, offering a sweet and spicy flavor with a hint of garlic. Hot sauce, available in a variety of flavors and heat levels, is another excellent option. Chopped chili peppers, such as habaneros or scotch bonnets, will add a significant amount of heat to your bratwurst. Use these sparingly, as they can be quite potent.
Creative Combinations: Thinking Outside the Bun
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your bratwurst toppings! There are endless possibilities to explore, and the only limit is your imagination. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
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Bacon and Blue Cheese: The smoky, salty bacon combined with the tangy, pungent blue cheese creates a rich and flavorful topping that is sure to impress.
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Pesto and Roasted Red Peppers: The herbaceous pesto and sweet roasted red peppers offer a vibrant and flavorful combination that is perfect for a summer cookout.
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Kimchi and Gochujang Mayo: This Korean-inspired topping is spicy, tangy, and incredibly flavorful. The kimchi adds a fermented kick, while the gochujang mayo provides a creamy and spicy element.
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Avocado and Salsa: This Mexican-inspired topping is fresh, flavorful, and healthy. The creamy avocado and zesty salsa complement the savory flavor of the bratwurst perfectly.
The Importance of the Bun
While the toppings are crucial, don’t underestimate the importance of the bun. A good bun should be soft, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold all of your toppings without falling apart.
Brioche buns are a popular choice, known for their rich, buttery flavor and soft texture. Pretzel buns offer a slightly salty and chewy texture that pairs well with bratwurst. And for a classic option, a simple white bread bun will do the trick. Toasting the bun lightly will help to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
Presentation matters! Arrange your brats and toppings in an appealing way to entice your guests.
Consider setting up a bratwurst topping bar, allowing your guests to customize their own creations. Provide a variety of toppings in separate bowls, along with spoons or tongs for easy serving. You can also create pre-made bratwurst combinations for your guests to choose from.
Serve your brats with sides such as potato salad, coleslaw, or corn on the cob. These sides will complement the flavor of the bratwurst and create a complete and satisfying meal.
Finding the Perfect Brat: A Quick Guide
Not all brats are created equal. Opt for high-quality brats made with natural casings. Look for varieties like:
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Sheboygan Brats: Known for their mild flavor.
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Beer Brats: Infused with beer for a richer taste.
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Spicy Brats: For those who like some heat.
Experiment to find your favorite!
Bratwurst Topping Ideas by Cuisine
Here’s a breakdown of bratwurst topping ideas inspired by different cuisines:
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German: Mustard (stone-ground, Dijon), sauerkraut, caramelized onions, Obatzda (Bavarian cheese spread).
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Mexican: Salsa, guacamole, pickled jalapeños, queso fresco, cilantro.
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Korean: Kimchi, gochujang mayo, sesame seeds, scallions, pickled radish.
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American: Cheddar cheese, bacon, chili, coleslaw, BBQ sauce.
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Italian: Pesto, roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese, balsamic glaze, artichoke hearts.
Don’t Forget the Drinks!
Pairing your brats with the right drinks can elevate the entire experience. Beer is a classic choice, with lagers, pilsners, and wheat beers being particularly well-suited. Soda, iced tea, and lemonade are also refreshing options. For a more sophisticated pairing, consider a dry Riesling or a Pinot Noir.
Enjoy Your Bratwurst Creations!
Ultimately, the best bratwurst toppings are the ones that you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. With a little creativity and a lot of flavor, you can create a bratwurst masterpiece that will impress your friends and family. So, fire up the grill, gather your favorite toppings, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
What are some classic bratwurst toppings?
Classic bratwurst toppings often evoke a sense of tradition and familiarity. These toppings complement the rich, savory flavor of the bratwurst without overpowering it. Think along the lines of tangy sauerkraut, which offers a fantastic acidic counterpoint to the sausage’s richness, or a simple, grainy mustard, which provides a sharp, zesty kick. These are time-tested choices that are sure to please.
Other popular classics include caramelized onions, whose sweetness balances the savory notes beautifully, and perhaps a dollop of horseradish sauce for those who enjoy a spicier experience. These toppings are versatile and easily accessible, making them ideal for a quick and satisfying bratwurst meal. They also serve as a great base for experimenting with more complex flavor combinations.
What are some creative and unusual bratwurst topping ideas?
Beyond the traditional choices, there’s a whole world of creative bratwurst toppings waiting to be explored. Consider toppings that add textural contrast and unexpected flavor profiles. For example, a slaw with shredded Brussels sprouts, apples, and cranberries offers a delightful crunch and a sweet-tart balance. Alternatively, try a spicy mango salsa for a tropical twist with a touch of heat.
Other unique options include crumbled goat cheese with fig jam for a sweet and savory combination, or even a chili with a beer cheese sauce for a decadent and indulgent experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cuisines and flavor combinations to find your perfect bratwurst topping masterpiece. The key is to balance the flavors and textures to create a truly memorable meal.
What is the best kind of mustard to use on a bratwurst?
The “best” kind of mustard for a bratwurst is subjective and depends on personal preference, but certain types tend to pair particularly well. A coarse-ground, grainy mustard offers a wonderful texture and a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the bratwurst. This type of mustard is a classic choice for a reason, as it provides a balanced and satisfying bite.
Dijon mustard is another excellent option, offering a smoother texture and a more complex, slightly spicy flavor. For those who prefer a sweeter mustard, a honey mustard can be a delightful complement to the savory sausage. Ultimately, the best mustard is the one that you enjoy the most, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find your personal favorite.
How can I prepare sauerkraut to be the perfect bratwurst topping?
Preparing sauerkraut for bratwurst involves more than just opening a jar. While store-bought sauerkraut can be convenient, a little extra effort can significantly enhance its flavor. Rinsing the sauerkraut helps to remove some of the excess acidity, resulting in a milder, more palatable flavor. After rinsing, consider sautéing it with a little butter or olive oil.
Adding aromatics like caraway seeds, onions, or garlic while sautéing can infuse the sauerkraut with even more depth of flavor. Some people even add a touch of apple cider vinegar or brown sugar for a sweet and tangy finish. Simmering the sauerkraut for a longer period will soften its texture and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating the perfect topping for your bratwurst.
What are some good vegetarian toppings for bratwurst (that isn’t sauerkraut)?
While bratwurst itself isn’t vegetarian, many delicious vegetarian toppings can complement the flavors of a plant-based sausage or simply stand alone as a fantastic addition. Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, offer a smoky sweetness that pairs well with the savory notes of the bratwurst. A vibrant corn and black bean salsa provides a fresh and zesty contrast.
Other great options include a creamy avocado spread with a squeeze of lime, or a spicy roasted red pepper and feta dip. For a heartier topping, consider a lentil and mushroom ragu, which offers a rich and savory flavor that will satisfy even the most dedicated meat-eater. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite vegetarian bratwurst topping.
What kind of bread or bun is best for a bratwurst?
The bread or bun plays a crucial role in the overall bratwurst experience, providing both structural support and a complementary flavor. A classic bratwurst bun is often a soft, slightly sweet roll that can stand up to the weight and juiciness of the sausage. Look for buns that are sturdy enough to hold the toppings without falling apart but also have a pleasant texture.
Pretzel rolls are another popular choice, offering a slightly salty and chewy alternative. For a more artisan touch, consider using a crusty sourdough roll or a toasted ciabatta bun. Ultimately, the best bread or bun is the one that you enjoy the most and that complements the flavors of your bratwurst and toppings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types to find your perfect pairing.
What are some regional variations of bratwurst toppings?
Bratwurst toppings often reflect the local culinary traditions of the region where they are enjoyed. In Wisconsin, a classic bratwurst topping might include beer cheese soup, reflecting the state’s brewing heritage. This rich and creamy topping adds a decadent and comforting element to the sausage.
In other regions, you might find variations like Carolina-style coleslaw, which provides a tangy and refreshing contrast to the bratwurst. Chicago-style toppings, such as giardiniera (pickled vegetables in oil), can also be a delicious addition. Exploring these regional variations offers a unique opportunity to experience the diversity of bratwurst toppings and discover new flavor combinations.