Bratwursts, a beloved German sausage, are a delicious and satisfying main dish that is perfect for cookouts, game day gatherings, and casual meals. While the juicy brats take center stage, every great meal needs fantastic side dishes to complement and enhance the flavors. Whether you prefer classics like sauerkraut and potato salad or unique options like grilled vegetables and corn on the cob, there are plenty of delectable choices to serve alongside brats. So, let’s explore some of the best side dishes that will take your bratwurst experience to the next level.

The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Brats: What Goes Good with Brats?

Bratwurst, a type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal, is a popular choice for grilling and barbecues. Its juicy and flavorful taste makes it a favorite among meat lovers. But what can you serve alongside these delicious brats to create the perfect meal? In this article, we will explore some of the best side dishes that complement brats and enhance your dining experience.

1. Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is a classic German side dish that pairs perfectly with bratwurst. Made from fermented cabbage, sauerkraut offers a tangy and slightly sour flavor that cuts through the richness of the bratwurst. It adds texture and depth to each bite while providing a refreshing contrast.

To prepare sauerkraut as a side dish for your brats:

1. Drain the sauerkraut from its liquid.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy.
3. Add chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they become translucent.
4. Add drained sauerkraut to the skillet and stir well.
5. Cook for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

2. Potato Salad

No barbecue or picnic is complete without potato salad! This creamy and tangy side dish complements bratwurst perfectly by adding another layer of flavor and texture to your plate. The coolness of potato salad also helps balance out the heat if you choose to add spicy condiments on your brats.

To make classic potato salad:

1. Boil potatoes until tender, then let them cool.
2. Peel and chop the cooled potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, chopped onions, celery, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chopped potatoes to the bowl and gently toss until well coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

3. Grilled Vegetables

If you’re looking for a healthier option or want to add some color to your plate, grilled vegetables are an excellent choice. The smoky flavor from grilling enhances the natural sweetness of vegetables and provides a nice contrast to the savory bratwurst. You can use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, or asparagus.

To grill vegetables alongside your brats:

1. Cut your chosen vegetables into even-sized pieces.
2. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Place the vegetables on skewers or directly on the grill grates.
5. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender and slightly charred.

4. Pretzels

Pretzels are another classic German accompaniment that goes well with bratwurst. Their salty exterior pairs perfectly with the juicy sausage. You can serve pretzel rolls as buns for your brats or simply have soft pretzels on the side for a delicious and satisfying meal.

5. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that complements many main courses, including bratwurst. Its crunchy texture and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sausage. You can make traditional coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise-based dressing or experiment with different variations like apple slaw or Asian-inspired coleslaw.

To make classic coleslaw:

1. Shred cabbage and carrots using a grater or food processor.
2. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the bowl and toss until well coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

Conclusion

When it comes to serving brats, there are plenty of delicious side dishes that can elevate your meal. Whether you prefer traditional German accompaniments like sauerkraut and pretzels or opt for classic favorites like potato salad or grilled vegetables, these sides will enhance the flavors of your bratwurst while providing variety on your plate. So fire up the grill, prepare some mouthwatering brats, and pair them with these fantastic side dishes for an unforgettable dining experience!