The Ultimate Grilled Beer Brats Guide
Beer and brats are a quintessential summer pairing that never goes out of style. Juicy bratwursts sizzling on the grill, alongside a cold beer are the perfect way to relax and take in the summer vibes.
Grilling brats isn’t complicated, but there are a few tips and tricks that can take your beer brat game to the next level. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the art of grilling beer brats and share some expert advice on how to make the most of your next cookout.
What are Beer Brats?
Before we dive into grilling techniques, let’s talk about what beer brats actually are. Beer brats are a type of sausage that originated in Germany. The sausages are made with fresh pork, spices, and sometimes beef.
The defining characteristic of beer brats is that they are simmered in beer before being grilled. This extra step infuses the sausages with flavor and creates a juicy, tender result that is mouthwatering.
Choosing the Right Brats
The first step to grilling the ultimate beer brats is to choose the right sausages. Look for high-quality, fresh bratwursts that have been made recently. Avoid frozen sausages or ones that have been sitting in the store for a while.
When choosing brats, you can select from a variety of flavors, including traditional, smoked, and jalapeño. Pick a flavor that you know you’ll enjoy, or go for something more adventurous if you’re feeling bold.
Simmering the Brats in Beer
The key to creating the ultimate beer brats is to simmer them in beer before grilling them. This step is essential as it allows the beer to penetrate the sausage and to keep it more tender and flavorful.
To simmer the brats, fill a large pot with beer and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Once the beer is simmering, add the bratwursts and let them cook for 10-15 minutes. Avoid boiling the sausages as this can cause them to burst.
Grilling the Brats
After simmering the brats, it’s time to grill them. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and make sure to brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the brats on the grill and cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side. Flip them once during cooking, and make sure to use tongs instead of a fork to avoid piercing them.
Serving and Pairing
Once the brats are grilled, it’s time to serve them. Place them on a warm bun and add your favorite toppings, such as sauerkraut, onions, or mustard.
To complete the ultimate beer brat experience, pair your sausages with a cold beer. Pilsners, lagers, and wheat beers all work well with beer brats, but feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your perfect pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you simmer beer brats?
You should simmer beer brats for 10-15 minutes. Avoid boiling them, as this can cause the sausages to burst.
Can you make beer brats in advance?
Yes, you can make beer brats in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the grill or stovetop before serving.
Can you use non-alcoholic beer to simmer the brats?
Yes, you can use non-alcoholic beer to simmer brats. However, keep in mind that this may affect the overall flavor as alcoholic beer has more complex flavors.
In conclusion, mastering the art of grilling beer brats is easy with these tips and tricks. From simmering the brats in beer to selecting the right sausages, these expert recommendations will guarantee mouth-watering results every time. Serve your sausages up with your favorite toppings and a cold beer, and you’ll be sure to impress your friends and family at your next cookout.