Smoked beer brats are a classic summertime favorite that can be enjoyed year-round. This delicious recipe is easy to make and can be prepared on the grill or in the oven. By marinating the brats in beer and then smoking them, you get maximum flavor with minimal effort.
If you’re looking to take your grilling game up a notch, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to hit the spot. With only a few simple ingredients and a bit of preparation, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect smoked beer brats.
What’s the best kind of brat to use
When it comes to the best kind of brat to use, you have several options. If you are looking for a brat with a classic flavor, opt for a traditional pork bratwurst. Pork brats are made with coarsely ground pork, along with spices such as pepper, marjoram, and nutmeg.
For a more flavorful option, try chicken or turkey brats. These versions are usually made with ground poultry mixed with herbs and spices like sage and paprika.
If you are looking for a more health-conscious option, try veggie brats. These are made from proteins like tofu, tempeh, and meat substitutes.
Lastly, if you want a unique flavor, try a wild game brat. Wild game brats come in varieties such as elk, venison, and pheasant.
What kind of onion is best for beer brats
If you’re looking for the perfect onion to top off your beer brats, you have a few options. Sweet onions, like Vidalia or Walla Walla, are a great choice for their mild flavor and sweetness that complements the savory brats.
Yellow onions are also a popular option due to their versatility in cooking and their subtle flavor. Red onions offer a bit more tang and can be especially delicious when grilled. For an extra layer of flavor, try pearl onions! These small onions add an amazing pop of flavor and can be boiled or used raw in salads.
No matter which type of onion you choose, you’re sure to have a delicious meal!
How to make beer brats
To get started, place your brats into a large freezer bag and pour in a bottle of beer. Refrigerate for 3-5 hours.
When ready, preheat your smoker to 180 degrees and slice up your onions into strips. Place the onions into a prepped grill-safe dish and put them on the grill.
Next, drain the brats and put them right on the grill. Finally, smoke both for an hour until cooked through.
Increase the grill’s temperature to 350° and put the brats in the dish with the onions and pour in the rest of the beer.
Set the timer for 30-60 minutes, and let brats to a simmer for 25 minutes.
Add onions and/or mustard, and you’re all set!
How do you store leftover brats
You should always make sure that the brats are completely cool before storing them. If you have any brats that are still slightly warm, place them in a shallow container and refrigerate them immediately.
Once the brats are cool, you can store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Be sure to label the container or wrap with the date of when you stored the brats.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers
When it comes time to cook your leftovers, make sure to check their temperature with a food thermometer before consuming. Cook the brats to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they are safe to eat.
Refrigerate any leftovers again within two hours after cooking and consume within four days of cooking. With these simple steps, you can easily store and enjoy your leftover brats.
Best wood to use when smoking brats
To get the best flavor and texture when smoking brats, it’s important to choose the right type of wood. The most popular woods for smoking brats are hickory, cherry, mesquite, and apple.
Hickory has a strong, smoky flavor that pairs well with beef or pork, making it perfect for brats. Cherry gives a milder, sweeter smoke that adds a hint of sweetness to the brats. Mesquite provides a strong, earthy flavor that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bolder taste. Apple is a mild wood that adds a hint of fruity sweetness to the brats.
When smoking brats, it’s important to remember that too much smoke can overpower the flavor of the sausage, so be sure to use the right amount of wood and monitor the smoke level. Start with small pieces of wood and add more as needed in order to get the desired flavor and smokiness.
What to serve with smoked brats
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking for something to serve at a family dinner, smoked brats are the perfect choice. To create the perfect meal, you’ll need to consider what sides to serve with your brats.
Potatoes are a great option, whether roasted, boiled or mashed. You can also serve some fresh vegetables like corn or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. Additionally, a variety of condiments like mustard, ketchup, and relish can be used to create flavorful combinations.
To round out the meal, you can also add some classic BBQ sides such as coleslaw, macaroni salad, baked beans, or potato salad. With a variety of options to choose from, you can easily create a delicious meal with smoked brats that your family will love.
OTHER RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE
Smoked Beer Brats
Try this delicious smoked beer brats recipe for your next barbecue! Enjoy the unique flavor of smoked brats combined with the subtle sweetness of beer. Perfect for a summer cookout!
Ingredients
- 6-8 pieces Bratwurst
- 2 cans Beer
- 1 piece Sweet Onion
- 3 tbsp Brown Mustard
- 6-8 pieces Buns
Instructions
To prepare brats, place them into a large baggie and add one can of beer. Seal the bag and let it marinate for 3-5 hours; then drain and discard the marinade.
Preheat your smoker to 180 degrees and slice onions into long strips. Place the strips into a baking dish and you're ready to begin smoking!
Place the brats directly on the grill grates and set a pan of onions in the grill as well. Let smoke at 200F for 1 hour.
Turn up the temperature to 350F. Pour another beer into the pan of onions, then place the brats on top. Leave to cook on the grill for 30-60 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
These delicious smoked brats are ready to be served on toasted buns with a touch of mustard for added flavor.