Michigan Beer-Glazed Brats on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and experience the ultimate beer-glazed bratwurst, grilled to perfection with Michigan’s finest craft beer. The high heat center grill grate locks in juices while the outer flat-top griddle ensures even cooking. This recipe delivers beautifully caramelized, juicy brats with a touch of smoky beer-infused goodness.

Ingredients

• 5 bratwurst sausages
• 1 cup Michigan craft beer
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 5 bratwurst buns
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Sauerkraut, grilled peppers, spicy mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light them.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Make the beer glaze

1. On the flat griddle of the Arteflame, melt butter.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until soft and caramelized.
3. Pour in the Michigan craft beer, followed by brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
4. Stir and let it reduce to a thick glaze, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the brats

1. Place the bratwursts on the center grill grate and sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until nicely browned.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the griddle

1. Move the brats to the flat griddle cooktop.
2. Baste with the beer glaze while turning occasionally for even coating.
3. Continue grilling for 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 155°F.
4. Remove from the grill when internal temp is 140°F (it will continue cooking off the grill).

Step 5: Toast the buns

1. Brush buns with butter and place them on the outer griddle area for 1-2 minutes until golden and warm.

Step 6: Assemble and serve

1. Place grilled brats in toasted buns.
2. Top with caramelized onions, additional beer glaze, and any desired toppings.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Monitor heat zones on the Arteflame grill—use the hot center for searing and the surrounding griddle for controlled cooking.
• Use a high-quality Michigan craft beer that complements the brats without overpowering them.
• Let the bratwurst rest for a few minutes after grilling to maximize juiciness.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño Brats: Add freshly sliced jalapeños to the beer glaze and use a spicy mustard for extra heat.
2. Cheddar-Stuffed Brats: Carefully slice each brat open and insert a small piece of cheddar cheese before grilling.
3. Herb-Infused Brats: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage to the beer glaze for a more aromatic flavor.
4. Sweet and Smoky Maple Brats: Swap brown sugar for pure Michigan maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.
5. Caramelized Apple Brats: Add thinly sliced apples to the onion glaze for a delicious sweet-savory combination.

Best Pairings

• Beer Pairing: A smooth Michigan amber ale or a malty Oktoberfest beer pairs perfectly.
• Side Dishes: Serve with grilled coleslaw, potato wedges, or a warm Bavarian pretzel.
• Condiments: Experiment with whole grain mustard, pickled onions, or horseradish sauce for added depth.

Conclusion

Grilling beer-glazed bratwurst on the Arteflame grill brings out incredible flavors with the perfect juiciness and texture. The combination of smoky, caramelized onions and Michigan craft beer creates an unmatched grilling experience. Try out different variations and make this recipe your own!