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Forkin
Main CourseDinner

Nuremberg Rostbratwurst with Sauerkraut

Savor the authentic taste of Bavaria with these traditional Nuremberg Rostbratwurst, pan-fried to a perfect golden crisp. Paired with tangy, slow-simmered sauerkraut infused with apple and caraway, this hearty German classic offers a delightful balance of savory and sour flavors.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
50 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Medium
Per serving
618 kcal

Allergen information: may contain mustard and sulphites. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Nuremberg Rostbratwurst with Sauerkraut

Mise en place

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 12 pcsnuremberg bratwurst
  • 500 gsauerkraut, drained
  • 1 pcsyellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 pcsapple, peeled, cored, and grated
  • 1 tbspvegetable oil
  • 0.5 tspcaraway seed
  • 60 mlwhite wine
  • 60 mlwater
  • 1 pinchsalt
  • 1 pinchblack pepper, freshly ground

garnish

  • 2 tbspmustard, for serving

Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven · Large skillet or cast-iron pan · Chef's knife · Cutting board · Box grater · Spatula or wooden spoon · Tongs

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Finely dice the yellow onion and grate the apple using a box grater.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Using a fine grater for the apple helps it melt into the sauerkraut, adding sweetness without noticeable texture.

  2. 2

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution and prevents the onions from scorching.

  3. 3

    Add the diced yellow onion to the pot and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and softened, about 3-5 minutes.

    About 4 min

    Cook’s note: Do not rush this step; properly softened onions form the flavor base for the sauerkraut.

  4. 4

    Stir in the drained sauerkraut, grated apple, and caraway seeds into the pot with the softened onions.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

  5. 5

    Pour in the white wine and water, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: The wine adds a layer of acidity and complexity to the sauerkraut; choose a dry white wine like Riesling or Pinot Grigio.

  6. 6

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauerkraut simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.

    About 18 min

    Cook’s note: Stir the sauerkraut every 5-7 minutes to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

  7. 7

    While the sauerkraut simmers, heat a separate large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: A hot pan is crucial for achieving a good sear and golden-brown crust on the bratwurst.

  8. 8

    Add the Nuremberg bratwurst to the hot skillet and cook, turning them frequently with tongs, until they are evenly golden brown on all sides and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.

    About 9 min

    Cook’s note: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and cause the bratwurst to steam rather than sear. Cook in two batches if necessary.

  9. 9

    Taste the cooked sauerkraut and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Sauerkraut can vary in saltiness, so always taste before adding more. A pinch of sugar can also balance the acidity if desired.

  10. 10

    Serve the hot Nuremberg bratwurst immediately alongside the warm, tangy sauerkraut and a generous dollop of your favorite mustard.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Traditional German mustards, like a coarse-grain or sweet Bavarian mustard, pair exceptionally well with bratwurst.

Per serving

Nutrition

30%Score
Calories
617.9kcal
Protein
24.5g
Carbs
19.3g
Fat
47.6g
Fibre
5.6g
Sugar
9.7g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Cook’s note:

This classic German dish is wonderful served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crusty rye bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a complete experience, pair it with a crisp German lager or a dry Riesling. You can also add a slice of bacon or a bay leaf to the sauerkraut while it simmers for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage

Store leftover bratwurst and sauerkraut separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat bratwurst in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes. Reheat sauerkraut gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.