As Wisconsin’s premier meat counter in the brat capital of the world, we’ve cooked a brat a time or two. In fact, they are so sacred in our neck of the woods we believe we have the perfect brat frying technique nailed down (beer bath and all). We know the fastest way to ruin a brat is to dry it out. With our four quick steps, we’ll have you well on your way to cooking delicious and juicy brats no one can resist!

First, Fire Up the Grill

Charcoal grilling is by far the best when it comes to brats. We suggest using briquettes instead of hardwood charcoal. Hardwood charcoal burns too hot for bratwurst and can cause them to burst and dry out. Start your fire and let them burn down to grey-looking coals.

Next, Prep Your Brats

While you are waiting for the coals to burn down, soak your bratwurst in COLD water for 5-7 minutes. This makes the casing more pliable and reduces breakage.

Then, Get to Grilling

Gently lay the brats on the clean hot grate, turning them often. Do not allow flames to flare up; control this by using a spray bottle or lightly dousing the flames with water. A fire that is too hot will split the casing, and you will lose the vital juices. Brats only take 7-8 minutes to fully cook, and overcooking them reduces the flavor.

When ready, they will be firm in the middle when gently squeezed with a tong. We suggest testing them the old-fashioned way by breaking one in half and checking the inside to be sure it is not raw. The internal temperature should be 160º. Bonus Tip: Be sure to eat any fully cooked brats you have broken, eliminating the evidence contradicting your master grilling capabilities.

Finally, Finish with a Well-Deserved Bath (for the brats, we mean)

The Sheboygan tradition is to put the finished brats in a bath of ¼ stick of melted butter, two cans of beer, and one large, sliced onion. Since you are only keeping them warm, put the heat on low. Too many times, people think this is how they are actually cooked, which defies all rules of brat making (at least in the brat capitol of the world).

If you follow these simple instructions, you will have successfully grilled the world’s greatest bratwurst! Don’t worry; we won’t tell anyone about the broken brat evidence you hid. Pick up a pack or two of our famous Grand Champion or flavored bratwurst at our retail store, located at 4811 Venture Drive in Sheboygan.