Currywurst
Juicy, pan-fried bratwurst sliced and smothered in a warm, tangy curry ketchup sauce. This iconic German street food classic is incredibly easy to make at home and perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Curry Ketchup Sauce
- b.Heat vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- c.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- d.Stir in 1.5 tablespoons of curry powder, the smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toast the spices for 30-60 seconds until aromatic.
- e.Pour in the tomato ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- f.Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
- g.Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend it directly in the pot.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Bratwurst
- b.While the sauce is simmering, heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. You can add a small amount of oil if your pan is not non-stick.
- c.Place the bratwurst in the hot pan. Be careful not to pierce the casings to keep the juices inside.
- d.Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning the sausages every few minutes, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- e.Remove the bratwurst from the pan and let them rest for a minute.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Slice the cooked bratwurst into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick pieces.
- c.Divide the sliced sausage among four serving plates or bowls.
- d.Generously ladle the warm curry ketchup sauce over the sausage slices.
- e.Garnish by dusting the remaining 0.5 tablespoon of curry powder over the top.
- f.Serve immediately with french fries (Pommes Frites) or a crusty bread roll (Brötchen).
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use high-quality German-style bratwurst made from pork or veal.
- 2The curry sauce is even better the next day. You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
- 3For a perfectly smooth, professional-style sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the onions directly into the sauce after simmering.
- 4Don't pierce the bratwurst casings while cooking. This keeps the sausages incredibly juicy and flavorful.
- 5Currywurst is traditionally served with a side of french fries (Pommes Frites) or a crusty bread roll (Brötchen) to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the curry ketchup for an extra kick.
Sweeter & FruitySweeter & Fruity
Add 1 tablespoon of apricot jam or a few tablespoons of unsweetened applesauce to the sauce for a subtle fruity sweetness that complements the spices.
Vegetarian/VeganVegetarian/Vegan
Substitute the bratwurst with your favorite plant-based sausages. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan (some contain anchovies) and use a vegan ketchup.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
The bratwurst provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and overall body function.
Contains Antioxidants
The tomato ketchup is a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases. Spices like paprika and curry powder also contribute to the antioxidant content.
Potential Anti-inflammatory Properties
Curry powder contains turmeric, whose active compound, curcumin, is well-known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Frequently asked questions
Currywurst is a popular German fast food dish consisting of a steamed, then fried pork sausage (Bratwurst) cut into slices and seasoned with a spiced ketchup sauce and curry powder. It's a beloved street food staple, especially in Berlin.