Classic Bratwurst with Sauerkraut
A quick and easy recipe featuring browned bratwurst simmered with tangy sauerkraut, onions, apple, and caraway seeds for a cozy, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–6 bratwurst links (about 1 pound or 450 g)
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained (about 500 ml)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small apple, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter (30 g)
- 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Thinly slice the yellow onion and peel and chop the apple into small chunks. Drain the sauerkraut well to avoid excess liquid. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bratwurst links and cook, turning occasionally with tongs, until golden brown on all sides, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove the bratwurst and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add sliced onions and chopped apple, stirring frequently. Cook until onions are translucent and apples soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the drained sauerkraut, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in the apple cider or juice, bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Nestle the browned bratwurst into the sauerkraut mixture. Cover and let everything simmer together gently for another 10 minutes until bratwurst is cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.
Notes
Do not pierce bratwurst casing to keep juices inside. Brown bratwurst first for better flavor and texture. Simmer sauerkraut gently to mellow tanginess. Add a pinch of sugar or extra apple juice if sauerkraut tastes too sour. Avoid overcooking bratwurst to prevent dryness. Leftovers store well in fridge for up to 3 days and freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bratwurst link wit
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 35
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 20
Keywords: bratwurst, sauerkraut, comfort food, easy dinner, German recipe, cozy meal, family dinner