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The onset of cooler days always brings me back to comforting meals that warm the soul. One evening, as I rummaged through the fridge, I found a beautiful head of cabbage nestled beside some savory bratwursts. That’s when inspiration struck! I decided to combine these ingredients into a delightful dish—Cabbage Wrapped Beer Brats. This recipe transforms the traditional heavy brat into a lighter, gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Imagine savoring the tender, juicy bratwurst enveloped in the crispness of cabbage leaves, with the subtle hint of beer elevating each bite. Not only is it low-carb, but this dish also delivers a wholesome punch of flavor, perfect for those of us looking to escape the allure of fast food. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual gathering, these Cabbage Wrapped Brats are sure to impress. Get ready to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal that is as simple to prepare as it is delicious!

Why are Cabbage Wrapped Brats irresistible?

Unique twist: These Cabbage Wrapped Brats provide a delightful twist on the classic bratwurst, turning a beloved dish into a lighter option without skimping on taste.
Satisfying crunch: Enjoy the contrast of crunchy cabbage against juicy brats, making every bite a textural delight.
Quick and easy: This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve these at your next get-together, and watch them disappear in no time; they appeal to both health-conscious eaters and traditionalists alike.
For even more flavor, consider serving with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal!

Cabbage Wrapped Brats Ingredients

For the Cooking

Olive Oil – Provides fat for cooking and flavor enhancement; substitute with avocado oil for a different taste.
Medium Onion, sliced – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish; sea salt can be used if preferred.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds spice; substitute with white pepper for a subtler heat.

For the Main Filling

Bratwursts – The main protein, rich in flavor; turkey or chicken bratwursts are great lighter options.
12-oz Can Beer – Adds moisture and enhances flavor during cooking; vegetable broth, apple cider, or ginger ale work as non-alcoholic options.

For the Wrap

Large Cabbage Leaves – Used as a wrapping for the brats; try Napa or savoy cabbage for better pliability.

For Serving

Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess; consider substituting with yellow mustard or aioli based on preference.
Sauerkraut (1 cup) – Complements the dish with tangy flavors; omit for a less tangy taste.

Embrace this delicious twist to create irresistible Cabbage Wrapped Brats that are sure to become a new family favorite!

How to Make Cabbage Wrapped Brats

Blanch Cabbage: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Immerse the cabbage leaves for about 30 seconds until they soften, then transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool quickly.
Cook Onions & Brats: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the bratwursts, cooking them for around 10 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Wrap & Simmer: Take the softened cabbage leaves and wrap them around the cooked brats, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. Place the wraps in the skillet and pour in the beer or broth, simmering for another 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Serve: Carefully plate the cabbage wraps, serving with a side of sauerkraut and a dollop of Dijon mustard for added tang.

Optional: Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over the top for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Cabbage Wrapped Brats Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful wraps, making every bite a new adventure!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free beer or vegetable broth to ensure your dish stays delicious and gluten-free.
Smoky Flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the filling for a rich, smoky twist that elevates the overall flavor.
Cheesy Delights: Incorporate shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack inside the wraps before rolling for a gooey surprise in each bite.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the cabbage or brat filling for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the brat mixture for a bit of heat that will warm your soul.
Vegetarian Option: Swap bratwursts for veggie sausages or grilled mushrooms for a plant-based version everyone will adore.
Flavor Boost: Drizzle with barbecue sauce or hot sauce before serving to add an exciting kick to your wraps.
Savory Greens: Experiment with different leafy greens for wrapping, such as Swiss chard or collard greens, for a fun and nutritious twist.

Let your taste buds guide you to create your own perfect version of these Cabbage Wrapped Brats!

What to Serve with Cabbage Wrapped Beer Brats?

Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that complement the savory flavors of cabbage-wrapped brats.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the crisp cabbage, making every bite harmonious.
Tangy Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing, coleslaw adds an extra layer of brightness alongside the hearty brats, balancing their rich flavors beautifully.
Garlic Bread: This classic side brings a fragrant, crusty element that pairs well with the savory sausage, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy medley of pickled veggies elevates the dish with acidity, cutting through the richness and offering a satisfying crunch.
Grilled Asparagus: Charred and vibrant, grilled asparagus brings a smoky flavor while its tender crispness complements the softness of the wrapped brats.
German Potato Salad: Warm and slightly tangy, this dish adds a delightful flavor contrast, bringing the essence of traditional bratwurst meals right to your table.
Apple Cider: A glass of apple cider serves as a refreshing, mildly sweet drink that enhances the savory notes of the brats, making for a harmonious dining experience.
Chocolate Cake: For dessert lovers, a slice of rich chocolate cake brings sweetness to the meal, ending on a delectable note that satisfies your cravings.

How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Wrapped Brats

Fridge: Store leftover cabbage wrapped brats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cabbage wrapped brats individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place frozen brats in the fridge overnight to thaw, and then warm gently in the microwave or a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Meal Prep: If meal prepping, consider blanching the cabbage leaves in advance. This allows for quick assembly and makes weeknight dinners effortless!

Make Ahead Options

These Cabbage Wrapped Beer Brats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can blanch the cabbage leaves up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator, making assembly a breeze. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and bratwursts and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful dish, simply wrap the pre-cooked brats in the chilled cabbage leaves, simmer them in the beer or broth for about 5 minutes, and serve with your favorite toppings. This prep strategy not only saves you time on busy nights but also ensures your Cabbage Wrapped Brats remain just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Cabbage Wrapped Brats

Watch the Brats: Keep an eye on bratwursts while cooking to prevent bursting; if you’re concerned, pierce them gently with a fork before cooking.
Perfect Cabbage Texture: Ensure cabbage leaves are pliable but not overly soft to maintain structure when wrapping; blanching them just enough is key.
Onion Caramelization: Slow cooking of onions is essential for a flavor boost; aim for a nice golden brown for that deep, sweet taste that complements the brats beautifully.
Substituting Ingredients: If you want an even healthier option, consider substituting bratwursts with turkey or chicken for lighter Cabbage Wrapped Brats.
Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with your preferred beer or broth; different options can dramatically change the flavor profile of the dish.

Cabbage Wrapped Beer Brats Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for wrapping?
For this recipe, I recommend using large cabbage leaves, such as Napa or savoy cabbage, as they are more pliable and easier to wrap around the bratwursts. These varieties also tend to have a milder flavor that complements the dish beautifully. If you can only find green cabbage, you can use it, but be sure to blanch it well to soften the leaves for better wrapping.

How should I store leftover Cabbage Wrapped Brats?
Leftover Cabbage Wrapped Brats should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist and avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Cabbage Wrapped Brats?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each Cabbage Wrapped Brat individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-friendly bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently in the microwave or skillet, adding a bit of broth to help rehydrate.

What do I do if my cabbage leaves are stiff and hard to wrap?
If your cabbage leaves are stiff, try blanching them a bit longer – around 45 seconds to 1 minute – in boiling water until they become more pliable. You can also slice a small V-shape at the base of each leaf to help them bend more easily without breaking. This technique ensures that your wraps will hold together beautifully when cooking.

Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply choose gluten-free bratwursts and replace the beer with gluten-free options such as vegetable broth or a gluten-free beer. This way, you can still enjoy these delicious Cabbage Wrapped Brats without any gluten trouble, allowing everyone at your table to indulge!