What To Serve With Brats

What to Serve with Brats: A Comprehensive Guide to the Perfect Bratwurst Feast

Brats, those juicy, flavorful sausages, are a quintessential summer grilling staple. But the magic of a bratwurst experience goes far beyond just the sausage itself. What you serve alongside your brats significantly impacts the overall taste and experience. This comprehensive guide will explore a vast array of delicious sides, from classic accompaniments to creative and unexpected pairings, ensuring your next bratwurst feast is unforgettable. We'll cover everything from traditional German fare to modern twists, guaranteeing you find the perfect complement for your brat-loving palate.

The Classics: Traditional German Sides for Brats

No bratwurst experience is complete without acknowledging its German heritage. Certain sides have stood the test of time, perfectly balancing the richness of the sausage with refreshing contrasts in texture and flavor.

1. Sauerkraut:

This fermented cabbage is a bratwurst soulmate. Its tangy, slightly sour flavor cuts through the richness of the sausage, providing a delightful counterpoint. Properly prepared sauerkraut, with its distinct fermentation aroma and lively texture, is key to enhancing the bratwurst experience. Look for brands that emphasize a long fermentation process for optimal flavor. Consider adding a touch of caraway seeds or apple cider vinegar to elevate the sauerkraut's already wonderful flavor profile.

2. German Potato Salad:

Unlike its creamy American counterpart, German potato salad is characterized by its vinegary dressing and often includes bacon or sausage bits. This warm, comforting salad provides a hearty and flavorful side that pairs beautifully with the savory brats. The potatoes' earthy notes complement the sausage's richness while the vinegar adds a bright, refreshing element.

3. Pretzel Buns:

The ideal vessel for a juicy bratwurst, pretzel buns offer a unique textural contrast and subtle sweetness. Their slightly salty, chewy texture provides a satisfying bite that perfectly complements the sausage. Their soft interior offers a perfect vessel to hold the juices and flavors of the brat, creating a harmonious combination. Ensure your buns are fresh, soft, and lightly toasted for the best experience.

4. Mustard:

While not strictly a side dish, mustard is an essential condiment that elevates the bratwurst experience. Traditional German mustards, such as sweet and spicy brown mustard or coarse-grained mustard, offer a complex flavor profile that enhances the sausage's savoriness. Experiment with different types of mustard to discover your favorite pairings. A Dijon mustard can add a wonderful tangy depth, while a sweeter honey mustard provides a contrasting sweetness.

Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Bratwurst Horizons

While the classics are always a safe bet, there's a world of culinary possibilities when it comes to pairing sides with brats. Let's explore some creative and delicious options that will impress your guests.

5. Roasted Vegetables:

The sweetness of roasted vegetables, particularly root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, provides a fantastic contrast to the savory brats. Roasting brings out the natural sugars in these vegetables, creating a caramelized sweetness that complements the richness of the sausage. Consider tossing them with herbs like rosemary or thyme for an added layer of flavor.

6. Corn on the Cob:

A summer grilling staple in its own right, corn on the cob is a natural pairing for brats. The sweetness of the corn balances the savory flavors of the sausage, and the char from the grill adds a smoky depth that complements both dishes. Serve it with a little butter or a sprinkle of chili powder for an added kick.

7. Coleslaw:

A crisp and refreshing coleslaw offers a textural and temperature contrast to the warm brats. The creamy dressing adds a richness that complements the sausage, while the shredded cabbage provides a light and refreshing counterpoint. Experiment with different dressings, from a classic mayonnaise-based coleslaw to a tangier vinaigrette-based version.

8. Macaroni and Cheese:

A decadent and crowd-pleasing side, macaroni and cheese pairs surprisingly well with brats. The creamy, cheesy richness complements the savory sausage, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. A lighter, less creamy mac and cheese might be a better choice to avoid overwhelming the brat's flavor.

9. Potato Skins:

Crispy potato skins loaded with cheese, bacon, and chives offer a fun and flavorful addition to your bratwurst spread. The crispy texture and savory flavors provide a delicious contrast to the softer texture of the brats.

Salads That Compliment Brats: Light and Refreshing Options

To balance the richness of the brats, a light and refreshing salad is an excellent choice. Here are some salad options that pair beautifully with bratwurst:

10. German Cucumber Salad:

Similar to sauerkraut, a German cucumber salad provides a refreshing and tangy contrast to the richness of the brats. Its thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in a light vinaigrette offer a cooling element that balances the hearty sausage.

11. Green Salad with a Light Vinaigrette:

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing and clean palate cleanser between bites of bratwurst. The crisp lettuce, combined with a variety of vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, provides a textural contrast to the sausage. Avoid heavy dressings that might overpower the delicate flavors.

Beyond the Sides: Drinks and Condiments to Enhance Your Bratwurst Experience

The success of your bratwurst feast isn't solely determined by the sides. Drinks and condiments play a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Drinks:

• Beer: A classic pairing, beer complements the savory flavors of bratwurst perfectly. Choose a lager, pilsner, or wheat beer for a refreshing accompaniment.
• Root Beer: A sweeter, more unusual choice, root beer offers a fun and unexpected contrast to the savory sausage.
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing beverages provide a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the bratwurst.

Condiments:

Beyond mustard, consider other condiments to customize your bratwurst experience:

• Horseradish: Offers a pungent kick that cuts through the richness of the sausage.
• Pickled Onions: Add a tangy sweetness that complements the savory bratwurst.
• Relish: A sweet and tangy relish adds another layer of flavor complexity.

Scientific Explanation: Why These Pairings Work

The success of these pairings lies in the principles of flavor balancing and textural contrast. The richness of the bratwurst, often high in fat and salt, needs to be balanced by contrasting flavors and textures.

• Acidity: The tangy flavors of sauerkraut, German potato salad, and mustard cut through the richness of the sausage, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Sweetness: The sweetness of roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, and certain condiments balances the savory notes of the bratwurst.
• Texture: The crispness of salads, the chewiness of pretzel buns, and the soft texture of macaroni and cheese offer contrasting textures that enhance the overall eating experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I serve brats with rice?

A: While not a traditional pairing, rice can work, especially if you're incorporating it into a more globally-inspired dish. A simple white rice would be a neutral base, allowing the bratwurst flavors to shine.

Q: What kind of bread is best for brats?

A: Pretzel buns are the classic choice, but sturdy rolls or even crusty bread can work well. Choose a bread that can hold the juices of the brat without falling apart.

Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan alternatives to brats?

A: Yes! Many brands now offer delicious vegetarian and vegan bratwurst alternatives that can be enjoyed with the same delicious sides.

Q: Can I prepare these sides ahead of time?

A: Many of these sides can be prepared ahead of time, saving you time on the day of your bratwurst feast. Sauerkraut, German potato salad, and coleslaw can all be made a day or two in advance.

Conclusion: Crafting the Perfect Bratwurst Feast

The perfect bratwurst feast is a symphony of flavors and textures. By carefully selecting your sides, drinks, and condiments, you can create a memorable culinary experience that celebrates the simple yet delicious magic of the bratwurst. Experiment with different combinations, and most importantly, have fun with it! Don't be afraid to try new and unexpected pairings – you might discover your new favorite combination. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to creating the ultimate bratwurst experience.