Bratwurst is practically its own food group here in Wisconsin. But what makes them different than sausages? Learn more about bratwurst, including what they’re made of and how to cook them.
Bratwurst vs. Sausages: What’s the Difference?
The term “sausage” describes ground or minced meat stuffed into a casing. Bratwurst is one type of sausage that originates in Germany.
Many ethnic groups have their own form of sausages, which started as a way to use up smaller pieces of meat. Other types of sausage include French Andouille, Spanish Chorizo, and Scandinavian-style Potato Sausage.
What Are Sausages Made Of?
A sausage can contain any type of meat or blend of meats and seasonings. The most popular sausages in the U.S. today are made from pork, beef, or chicken.
What Is Bratwurst Made Of?
Traditionally, bratwurst was made from pork, veal, or a blend of the two types of meats and a combination of spices, including marjoram.
Most bratwurst sold in the U.S. are pork. However, the sky’s the limit when it comes to spices and add-ins! Cheese, in particular, is a popular addition.
How Do You Cook Bratwurst?
Many people in Wisconsin will boil bratwurst in beer before grilling. Or they will first grill the bratwurst, then soak it in warm beer before serving. Many people feel passionate about using beer. However, this is not the best way to cook brats.
If you ever boiled bratwurst in beer, you may have noticed how cloudy the beer was – that’s all the juices and moisture that seeped out of the meat. Soaking or boiling brats strips them of their moisture and flavor.
Grilling or frying bratwurst is the best way to cook them. The USDA recommends that brats are cooked to an internal temp of 160 before serving. Our butchers aim for 160 to 165.
Bratwurst at The Grain Bin Butchery & Market
We use the freshest ground pork and seasonings to create our housemade bratwurst. For the purists, we have plain. For those who want to try something different, check out our Philly Cheese Steak Brats, Jalapeno Popper Brats, and Hawaiian Brats.
Call our store to see what we have in stock or to place a special order, 715-632-2800.
Our rural Boyceville, WI butcher shop is easy to find: E4548 County Rd FF. We’re 5 miles north of Wheeler, between County Rd F and Highway 25.
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