Hearty Oktoberfest Chili: A Flavorful Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Recipe for Fall Celebrations
This post is sponsored by Frank’s Sauerkraut. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for continuing to support the brands that make An Affair from the Heart possible.
As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s a certain festive feeling that takes over. It’s the season for cozy sweaters, football games, and delicious, soul-warming food. And what better way to celebrate the arrival of fall than by embracing the spirit of Oktoberfest? We’re talking about hearty flavors, German traditions, and, of course, a fantastic beer-friendly feast. This year, we’re putting a unique spin on a classic comfort food with our incredible Oktoberfest Chili, featuring the robust flavors of bratwurst and the tangy kick of our favorite Frank’s Kraut!
Embrace the Oktoberfest Spirit with a Flavorful Twist
Oktoberfest is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of Bavarian culture, good company, and delightful culinary traditions. Originating on October 12, 1810, with the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig (who later became King Ludwig I) to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen, the festivities in Bavaria quickly became an annual tradition. Five days after the wedding, a grand fest was held, complete with horse races – a custom that endured until 1938. By 1811, an agricultural fair was added, and by 1818, beer pubs and performers joined the fun, transforming Oktoberfest into a major tourist attraction and a wonderful way for visitors to experience Bavarian heritage.
Today, Oktoberfest typically begins in mid-September to capitalize on better weather and extends through the first weekend of October. It’s a time filled with lively music, joyful dancing, bustling beer tents, and an abundance of delicious German fare. While many associate Oktoberfest solely with beer and pretzels, the food is truly at the heart of the celebration. From roasted meats to hearty stews, German cuisine is known for its comforting and satisfying qualities. This Oktoberfest Chili recipe perfectly embodies that spirit, bringing traditional German ingredients into a beloved American dish.
Why This Bratwurst and Sauerkraut Chili is a Must-Try
Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering at home, planning an epic tailgating party, or simply craving a hearty meal, this Oktoberfest Chili deserves a spot on your menu. It takes all the best elements of a classic chili – the rich broth, the medley of beans, and that satisfying heat – and elevates them with a distinctive German twist. Instead of traditional ground beef, we start with succulent bratwurst, sliced into savory rounds and browned to perfection. But the real game-changer is the addition of sauerkraut, which introduces a delightful tanginess and depth of flavor that truly sets this chili apart.
Imagine a spoonful of tender bratwurst, robust beans, vibrant peppers, and that unmistakable tangy sauerkraut, all swimming in a perfectly spiced, rich tomato base. This isn’t just chili; it’s a culinary journey to Bavaria, right from your kitchen! The balance of savory, spicy, and sour notes creates an incredibly complex and satisfying experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The Unexpected Health Benefits of Sauerkraut
Beyond its unique flavor, did you know that sauerkraut is a fantastic natural immune booster? This fermented cabbage has been revered for centuries for its incredible health benefits. Sauerkraut is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, including significant amounts of Vitamin C and Vitamin K, as well as iron and fiber. But its true magic lies in the fermentation process.
During fermentation, beneficial phytochemicals are created. These naturally occurring compounds, along with the probiotics (beneficial bacteria) formed during fermentation, play a crucial role in supporting a healthy gut microbiome. A thriving gut is directly linked to a robust immune system. By helping to balance gut flora, sauerkraut can significantly enhance your body’s ability to fight off illnesses, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of common colds, and even improving skin health and aiding in weight management. Incorporating sauerkraut into your diet is a simple yet effective way to give your immune system a natural, delicious boost. Learn more about the extensive health benefits of sauerkraut.
A Heritage of Flavor with Frank’s Kraut
If you’ve never experienced the exceptional quality of Frank’s Kraut, now is the perfect time to discover it. With Polish and German roots, my family has relied on Frank’s Kraut for generations; it’s the only sauerkraut my grandparents and parents ever trusted. Their commitment to tradition and quality shines through in every bite, making them an absolutely wonderful company to work with. The authentic flavor and consistent quality of Frank’s Kraut are unmatched, and it’s truly an honor to create recipes that highlight such a fantastic product.
We’ve collaborated on many delicious kraut recipes over the years, each one showcasing the versatility and incredible taste of Frank’s Kraut. From traditional favorites to innovative dishes like this Oktoberfest Chili, Frank’s Kraut always delivers. Be sure to explore some of our other creations:
#AllTheKraut Recipes
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Print Recipe
Oktoberfest Chili
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh bratwurst links cut into 1-inch slices
- 3 Tablespoons bacon drippings or neutral cooking oil
- 1 large onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 Tablespoon black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon cumin
- 3 Tablespoons chili powder
- 1 Tablespoon salt
- 1 14 ounce can Frank’s sauerkraut (drained and rinsed if preferred, but not necessary)
- 2 14.5 ounce cans Chili Ready diced tomatoes
- 1 15.5 ounce can Chili Beans (undrained)
- 1 15 ounce can Pinto Beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 15 ounce can Dark Red Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 8 ounce cans Tomato sauce
- 2 cups tomato juice
- 1 12 ounce German Oktoberfest beer (or other full-bodied amber lager)
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (adds depth, not sweetness)
Instructions
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In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 Tablespoon of bacon drippings (or oil) over medium heat. Add the sliced bratwurst and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are beautifully browned and no longer pink inside, about 15 minutes. Remove the cooked bratwurst from the pot and set aside. Carefully drain any excess grease from the pot, leaving about 2 Tablespoons if using bacon drippings.
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Add the remaining bacon drippings (or oil) to the Dutch oven, if needed. Stir in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeno pepper. Sauté these vegetables until the onion becomes translucent and softened, approximately 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Return the browned bratwurst to the pot. Stir in the sauerkraut, all three cans of beans (chili beans undrained, pinto and kidney drained/rinsed), diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato juice, German Oktoberfest beer, and all the dry spices (garlic powder, paprika, oregano, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, and salt).
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Bring the chili to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the temperature to low heat. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are fully melted and incorporated, adding a surprising depth to the chili without making it sweet.
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Allow the chili to simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for at least a few hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. For an even easier approach, transfer the entire mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors are fully developed and the chili is thick and rich.
Notes
Nutrition
Stay Connected with Frank’s Kraut
Ready to dive deeper into the world of delicious kraut recipes? Be sure to follow Frank’s Kraut on their social media channels for continuous inspiration and fantastic meal ideas:
From appetizers to main courses, Frank’s Kraut offers a unique tang that elevates any dish. Give this Oktoberfest Chili a try and let the rich, festive flavors transport you to a cozy fall celebration!