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Bratwurst, often referred to simply as brats, are a popular German sausage known for their juicy, savory flavor. While grilling is a traditional way to cook brats, you can achieve fantastic results on the stove, especially when outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to cook delicious brats on your stovetop.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these essential ingredients and tools:
- Bratwurst sausages
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
- A heavy skillet or frying pan with a lid
- Beer (optional)
- Onions, peppers, or other desired toppings (optional)
- Tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to cook mouthwatering brats on the stove:
1. Prep Your Brats
Remove the brats from their packaging and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking.
2. Score the Brats
Use a sharp knife to make shallow diagonal cuts (score) on both sides of each brat. This step not only enhances the presentation but also allows the fat to render and the flavors to penetrate deeper.
3. Heat the Skillet
Place your skillet or frying pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil and let it heat up.
4. Sear the Brats
Once the oil is hot, add the brats to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. You’re not aiming to fully cook them at this stage; just focus on browning the exteriors.
5. Add Liquid (Optional)
For extra flavor, you can add a bottle of beer to the skillet. It’s a classic way to cook brats and infuses them with a unique taste. Be cautious when adding beer, as it might sizzle and splatter.
6. Reduce Heat and Simmer
Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the brats to simmer in the beer for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally. This gentle simmering ensures they cook through evenly while staying juicy.
7. Check for Doneness
After simmering, check the internal temperature of the brats with a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), indicating they’re fully cooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut a brat open; it should no longer appear pink inside.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once your brats are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet, and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve your brats in fresh buns with your favorite toppings. Grilled onions and peppers are popular choices, but you can get creative with your toppings.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy skillet with a lid helps distribute heat evenly and prevents brats from sticking or burning.
- Don’t Pierce the Brats: Avoid piercing the brats with a fork while cooking. This can cause them to lose their juices and become dry.
- Experiment with Beer: Try different types of beer to find your favorite flavor combination. Some prefer a light lager, while others enjoy a darker beer for a richer taste.
Now that you know how to cook brats on the stove, you can enjoy these delicious sausages year-round, regardless of the weather outside.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard cookout, perfectly cooked brats are always a crowd-pleaser.
