Ingredients
– 6 bratwurst sausages
– 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 ounces beer (preferably a German-style lager or a rich ale)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Optional: 1 teaspoon caraway seeds for added flavor
– For serving: Sturdy brat buns or hoagie rolls
Directions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the thinly sliced onions, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and start to caramelized; this should take about 15-20 minutes. In the last couple of minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic to the onions and cook until fragrant.
2. Transfer the caramelized onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Brown the bratwurst sausages in the same skillet over medium-high heat to add some color and flavor, about 3 minutes per side.
4. Place the browned bratwursts atop the onions in the slow cooker.
5. Add the beer and Worcestershire sauce to the mixture in the slow cooker. If using, sprinkle the caraway seeds over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, ensuring the brats are cooked through and the onions have turned soft and golden. The low and slow cooking process will ensure maximum flavor absorption.
7. Serve the brats and caramelized onions in buns, with side dishes of your choice.
Variations & Tips
– If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe, turkey bratwursts can be used in place of traditional pork brats.
– For a non-alcoholic version, substitute chicken or beef stock for the beer, though you’ll miss out on some depth of flavor.
– Feel free to add apples to the onions while they caramelize for a subtle sweetness that complements the savoriness of the brats.
– Personalize your beer brats with a range of condiments, but a dollop of grainy mustard or horseradish can be especially nice.
– Remember, the type of beer you use will influence the flavor, so choose one that you enjoy drinking for the most satisfying results.
