I love grilling brats during the summer. There’s something about the combination of juicy sausages and the smoky flavor of the grill that is simply irresistible. But what about when the weather doesn’t cooperate or you simply don’t have access to a grill? Fear not, my friends, because I have discovered a quick and convenient cooking method for brats – the microwave!
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Microwaving brats? Isn’t that sacrilege? Well, hear me out. While microwaving may not give you the same charred and smoky flavor as grilling, it does offer a fast and hassle-free alternative for cooking brats. Plus, it helps to retain their juicy goodness. So, grab your favorite pack of brats and let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before we jump into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Brats:
Choose your favorite brand or type of brats. You can go for classic pork brats or experiment with different flavors like beer-infused or cheddar-stuffed.
– Microwave-safe dish:
Select a dish large enough to accommodate the brats comfortably. Make sure it is microwave-safe to avoid any accidents.
– Microwave-safe cover or plastic wrap:
You’ll need something to cover the dish during cooking to retain moisture.
Prepare the Brats for Microwaving
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to prepare the brats for microwaving. Here’s how you do it:
1. Prick the Brats:
Using a fork or a toothpick, lightly prick the brats all over. This step helps prevent them from bursting while cooking.
2. Arrange Brats in the Dish:
Place the brats in a single layer in the microwave-safe dish. Make sure they are not stacked or crowded, as they need space to cook evenly.
3. Add Liquid:
To prevent the brats from drying out, add a small amount of liquid to the dish. You can use beer, water, or broth. I personally prefer using beer for added flavor.
Microwave the Brats
Now comes the exciting part – microwaving the brats! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Cover the Dish:
Place a microwave-safe cover or plastic wrap over the dish, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. This cover helps trap the moisture and ensures even cooking.
2. Set the Microwave Power and Time:
Set your microwave to medium power. This setting prevents the brats from overcooking or becoming tough. Cook the brats for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
3. Rotate and Prick:
After the first 4-5 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the microwave, and use tongs or a fork to turn the brats over. Lightly prick them again to release any trapped steam.
4. Continue Cooking:
Return the dish to the microwave and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on medium power. Keep an eye on the brats to ensure they don’t overcook.
Finish with a Burst of Heat
To achieve that perfect golden brown color and a slightly crisp exterior, we need to give the brats a final burst of heat. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Preheat a Skillet:
While the brats are finishing up in the microwave, preheat a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. No need to add any oil or butter – we’re just looking for a dry heat.
2. Brown the Brats:
Once the brats are done in the microwave, carefully transfer them to the preheated skillet. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown color.
Serve and Enjoy!
Congratulations! Your microwaved brats are ready to be served and enjoyed. You can serve them plain with your favorite mustard or ketchup or go all out with toppings like sauerkraut, onions, and melted cheese.
Microwaving brats may not be the traditional method, but it certainly offers a quick and convenient way to satisfy your bratwurst cravings. So, the next time you’re unable to grill or simply want a hassle-free cooking experience, give the microwave a try. Happy cooking!