Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Beer-Braised Bratwurst with Bacon

Ingredients

• 4 bratwurst sausages
• 3 (12-ounce) cans of light beer
• 5 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 6 slices bacon, cut in half

Directions

1. Poke bratwurst several times with a small fork and place them into a saucepan.
2. Pour in the beer and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer the bratwurst for 15 minutes.
4. After 15 minutes, remove the bratwurst from the beer and allow them to cool to room temperature.
5. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
6. In a large bowl, toss the brown sugar and cayenne pepper together, then set aside.
7. Cut each boiled bratwurst into thirds. Wrap each piece with half a strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
8. Coat the bacon-wrapped bratwurst in the brown sugar and cayenne mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated.
9. Place the coated bratwurst on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the bacon is browned and crisp.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 353
• Fat: 22g (28% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (38% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 56mg (19% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 751mg (33% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 16g (6% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (0% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 13g (25% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 35mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (3% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 328mg (7% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst

The bratwurst, a type of German sausage, has a rich history that dates back to the early 14th century in the region of Franconia, Germany. Bratwurst traditionally consists of pork, beef, or veal, and it is flavored with a variety of spices, such as marjoram, caraway, and garlic. The bacon-wrapped version of bratwurst, however, is a modern American twist, combining the savory goodness of bratwurst with the crispy richness of bacon. While bratwurst is a staple of German cuisine, its bacon-wrapped counterpart has gained popularity in the United States, particularly in casual settings like cookouts, tailgates, and family gatherings.

Regional Features of Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst

Though bacon-wrapped bratwurst is commonly associated with American backyard barbecues, it also reflects the culinary influences of the Midwest, particularly Wisconsin, where bratwurst is a beloved dish. Wisconsin has a long history of German immigration, and the state is often credited with perfecting the bratwurst sausage. In this region, it's not unusual to see bratwurst served in a variety of formsfrom being grilled to being wrapped in bacon or even smothered with beer and onions. The bacon adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the spiciness of bratwurst, making it a hit among those who enjoy a combination of sweet, salty, and smoky tastes.

What Sets Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst Apart?

Bacon-wrapped bratwurst stands out from similar dishes like regular grilled bratwurst or sausages in its unique combination of flavors and textures. Regular bratwurst is typically grilled or boiled and served with mustard or sauerkraut, focusing on the taste of the sausage itself. The bacon-wrapped version, however, elevates the flavor profile by adding the crispy, savory element of bacon, which imparts a smoky richness to the bratwurst. Additionally, the bratwurst in this recipe is boiled in beer before being wrapped in bacon and baked, which gives it a tender and juicy texture that sets it apart from other sausages.

Where is Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst Typically Served?

This dish is a favorite at casual, social gatherings. It's commonly served as an appetizer or a snack at tailgates, barbecues, or parties. Bacon-wrapped bratwurst can also be found at German-inspired beer gardens and festivals, especially in regions with strong German-American communities like the Midwest. Its hearty and flavorful nature makes it ideal for serving alongside cold beer, potato salad, and other comfort foods. Whether on its own or served with a variety of dipping sauces like mustard or BBQ, this dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Interesting Facts About Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst

• Did you know that bratwurst was originally made with veal in Germany? Today, the sausage often includes pork or beef, and occasionally a mix of the two.
• The tradition of wrapping sausages in bacon likely originates from the desire to make the sausages juicier and more flavorful, especially when cooking them over a grill or open flame.
• The beer used to boil the bratwurst before wrapping it in bacon imparts a subtle malty flavor, enhancing the sausage's richness.
• Many recipes call for a brown sugar and cayenne mixture to coat the bacon-wrapped bratwurst, which creates a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
• In Wisconsin, the bratwurst is such an iconic dish that it's often referred to as "the state sausage," and it's featured at many local events and festivals, such as the famous "Brat Fest" in Madison.

FAQ about Bacon-Wrapped Bratwurst Recipe

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