Authentic German Currywurst Recipe

Ingredients

4 German bratwursts
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Steps and instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Add the bratwursts to the pan and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the ketchup, water, curry powder, paprika, sugar, pepper, and salt to the pan. Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
While the sauce is cooking, slice the cooked bratwursts into bite-sized pieces.
Add the sliced bratwursts back into the pan, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the bratwursts are heated through.
Serve the currywurst with a sprinkling of extra curry powder on top, if desired.

Tools for making

Frying Pan - A large frying pan for cooking the bratwursts and preparing the sauce.
Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the onion and garlic.
Cutting Board - A cutting board to safely chop the onion and garlic.
Spatula - A spatula for flipping and stirring the bratwursts and sauce.
Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons for precise measurement of curry powder, paprika, sugar, pepper, and salt.

Recipe variations

Use different types of sausages such as bratwurst with cheese, smoked sausages, or spicy sausages.
Replace the bratwurst with vegan sausages or tofu for a meat-free version.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos to the sauce for extra heat and flavor.
Experiment with different curry powders, such as mild, medium, or hot, to adjust the spiciness of the sauce.
Include chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce in the curry sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.
Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or vinegar to the sauce for tanginess.
Top the currywurst with sliced green onions or fresh cilantro for added freshness.
Serve the currywurst with a side of French fries or potato wedges for a traditional German street food experience.
For a healthier option, serve the currywurst over a bed of steamed vegetables or with a side salad.

Recipe overview

Currywurst is a popular German street food dish that's incredibly delicious and simple to make at home. This recipe uses traditional German bratwursts which are pan-fried until nicely browned and then coated in a rich, homemade curry ketchup sauce. The sauce is a unique blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that perfectly compliment the savory sausage. This dish is usually served with a sprinkle of extra curry powder on top for an added kick. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Germany right in your own kitchen!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of sausage instead of bratwurst? Yes, you can use other types of sausages like pork sausages or frankfurters as a substitute for bratwurst.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder currywurst, you can reduce the amount of curry powder or use a mild curry powder instead of a hot one.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the bratwursts in it.
What are some common side dishes to serve with currywurst? Currywurst is often served with fries or potato wedges. Other popular options include a side of sauerkraut, a fresh green salad, or a crusty bread roll.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe? Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of currywurst by using plant-based sausages and substituting the ketchup with a vegan-friendly alternative. Ensure the curry powder you use is also vegan, as some brands may contain non-vegan ingredients.
Can I freeze leftover currywurst? Yes, you can freeze leftover currywurst. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

Frying Pan - A large frying pan is needed to cook the bratwursts and sauté the onions and garlic.
Knife - A sharp knife is essential for slicing the cooked bratwursts into bite-sized pieces.
Cutting Board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing the bratwursts and chopping the onion.
Spatula - A spatula is useful for flipping the bratwursts while cooking and stirring the sauce.
Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons are required to accurately measure the curry powder, paprika, sugar, pepper, and salt.
Stirring Spoon - A stirring spoon is necessary for mixing and stirring the sauce.
Serving Plate or Bowl - A plate or bowl is needed for serving the currywurst.

Origin stories

Currywurst is a beloved street food in Germany, notably in Berlin where it supposedly originated in the post-war era. The story goes that in 1949, a woman named Herta Heuwer obtained ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and curry powder from British soldiers stationed in Germany. She mixed these ingredients, poured it over grilled pork sausage, and started selling this innovative dish from a street stand in Berlin. The combination was a hit, and currywurst quickly became a classic German fast food. Today, it's estimated that 800 million currywursts are consumed annually in Germany, with the city of Berlin being a particular hotspot. There's even a Currywurst Museum in Berlin dedicated to the history and cultural impact of this popular dish.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.