German Grilled Pumpernickel Sandwich with Käsekrainer

Introduction

A delicious German-inspired sandwich featuring grilled Käsekrainer sausage and melty cheese nestled between slices of hearty pumpernickel bread. Cooked on the Arteflame grill, this sandwich locks in all the rich flavors by perfectly searing the sausage over 1,000°F and then finishing it on the smooth flat cooktop for an even, golden-brown crust. Whether for lunch or dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 Käsekrainer sausages
• 4 slices pumpernickel bread
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire establish. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Käsekrainer Sausages

1. Place the sausages on the center grill grate at 1,000°F to sear.
2. Let them cook for 1-2 minutes per side until a deep caramelized crust forms.
3. Move the sausages to the flat cooktop and let them cook through to the desired doneness.
4. Remove the sausages from the grill when they are 15°F below the target temperature as they will continue cooking off the heat.

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

1. Spread butter on one side of each pumpernickel bread slice.
2. Place the bread, buttered side down, on the flat top cooktop.
3. Layer a slice of cheese, grilled Käsekrainer (split in half lengthwise), mustard, sauerkraut, onions, and another slice of cheese.
4. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
5. Grill until the bread is golden brown and toasty, flipping carefully to grill both sides evenly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove the sandwich from the grill and let it rest for 2 minutes.
2. Slice in half and serve immediately.

Tips

• For extra crispiness, press the sandwich gently with a spatula while grilling.
• Use high-quality Käsekrainer to get the best flavor.
• The Arteflame grill provides naturally different heat zones, making it easier to cook everything evenly.

Variations

1. Spicy German Twist: Add a layer of pickled jalapeños and spread some spicy mustard.
2. Caramelized Onion Delight: Grill some onions on the flat top until golden brown and add them to the sandwich.
3. Mushroom Lover’s Edition: Sauté mushrooms on the Arteflame flat cooktop and add them to the sandwich.
4. Bacon & Kraut Special: Grill crispy bacon alongside the sausage and add it for a smoky layer.
5. Bratwurst Alternative: Swap Käsekrainer for classic grilled bratwurst with melted cheddar cheese.

Conclusion

This grilled German-inspired pumpernickel sandwich is loaded with bold flavors and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. By using the high-heat searing zone and the evenly heated griddle cooktop, you get a perfectly balanced sandwich with a crispy crust and juicy sausage. Serve this delicious creation for a meal packed with hearty, comforting flavors.

Best Pairings

• German Potato Salad
• Grilled Asparagus
• Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese
• German Pilsner or Wheat Beer