North Dakota Beer Bratwurst on Arteflame Grill

Introduction

This North Dakota Beer Bratwurst recipe brings together the bold flavors of local beer and juicy brats, seared to perfection on the Arteflame Grill. By reverse searing bratwursts on the center grill grate and finishing them gently on the flat cooktop, you get a mouthwatering snap with juicy, flavorful insides. No pots or pans needed—just fire, fresh ingredients, and one incredible grilling experience.

Ingredients

• 6 bratwurst sausages (preferably local)
• 2 bottles North Dakota craft beer
• 1 large sweet onion, sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 sturdy brat buns
• Dijon mustard, for serving
• Pickled vegetables or sauerkraut (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place them in the base of your Arteflame grill.
3. Stack dry firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
5. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the cooking surface is ready.

Step 2: Simmer the Bratwurst

1. On the flat cooktop near the center where it’s hotter, place sliced onions and butter.
2. Add bratwursts on top of the onion bed.
3. Carefully pour beer over the brats until just covered.
4. Let the bratwursts simmer uncovered until they are plump and the beer reduces slightly — about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Bratwurst

1. Move each brat to the center grill grate directly above the flame (1,000°F).
2. Sear each side of the bratwurst for 1-2 minutes until golden brown with grill marks.
3. Rotate to ensure even sear on all sides.

Step 4: Finish on the Flat Griddle

1. After searing, place brats back onto the cooktop’s outer zone to finish cooking gently.
2. Grill until internal temperature reaches 150°F, then remove from the grill. Remember: brats will continue cooking to 165°F while resting.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

1. Slice the buns and place cut-side down on the outer edge of the flat cooktop.
2. Toast them until just golden and crisp.

Step 6: Serve

1. Place bratwursts into the buns. Top with grilled onions and optional toppings like sauerkraut and mustard.
2. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips

• Use butter instead of oil when grilling to boost flavor.
• Keep your brats in the hotter inner zone if you like more crisp; further out if you want slower, juicier cooking.
• Always monitor internal temperature: remove meat when it’s 15°F below target.
• Avoid stabbing brats with a fork—use tongs to keep juices sealed in.
• Grill your sides (veggies, buns, pickles) on the Arteflame at the same time using heat zones.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño Beer Brats: Add thinly sliced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese on top for a spicy kick.
2. Apple Cider Brats: Simmer the brats in local apple cider with cinnamon and clove for a sweet twist.
3. Cheddar-Stuffed Brats: Use cheese-stuffed bratwursts and melt extra cheddar on the flat top before serving.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Brats: Wrap brats in thin bacon slices before searing for added texture and flavor.
5. German-Style Brats: Serve with grilled red cabbage and grainy mustard for an authentic German bite.

Best pairings

• Pair with German potato salad or grilled corn on the cob cooked on the flat top.
• Serve with a chilled North Dakota craft lager or hefeweizen.
• Grilled apple slices with cinnamon butter add a sweet delicious contrast.
• Try with a tangy coleslaw prepared right on the cooktop.
• Roasted garlic aioli or spicy mustard sauces for dipping elevate the dish further.

Conclusion

These North Dakota Beer Bratwursts are a celebration of local flavor and perfect grilling technique. Thanks to the Arteflame Grill’s unique cooking zones, you can create sausage perfection with no fuss and no clean-up. Make this a part of your next cookout for an elevated brat experience your crowd will love.