Contents
Currywurst is a beloved German street food featuring grilled bratwurst sliced and smothered in a rich, tangy curry ketchup sauce. This homemade version captures the essence of Berlin's iconic dish, perfect for a hearty snack or main course.
Ingredients
For the Bratwursts:
- 4 traditional bratwursts (or preferred sausages)
Instructions
Prepare the Currywurst Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the tomato ketchup.
- Stir in the baking soda; the mixture may foam briefly. Continue stirring until it subsides.
- Reduce heat to low and add curry powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Incorporate Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and water. Stir thoroughly and let the sauce simmer for 5โ10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cook the Bratwursts:
- Grill or pan-fry the bratwursts over medium heat until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 5โ7 minutes per side.
- Allow the sausages to rest for a couple of minutes, then slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange the sliced bratwursts on a serving plate.
- Generously spoon the warm curry sauce over the sausages.
- For an authentic touch, sprinkle a pinch of curry powder on top.
- Serve immediately alongside fries, crusty bread, or a fresh roll.
Notes
Homemade Currywurst โ The Iconic German Street Food ๐ฉ๐ช
Currywurst is often hailed as the ultimate German street food, beloved by locals and tourists alike. This flavorful dish consists of grilled bratwurst, sliced into bite-sized pieces, and generously smothered in a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy curry ketchup sauce. While the recipe for the perfect currywurst sauce is highly debated, one thing is certain โ it's a must-try dish for anyone exploring German cuisine!๐ The History of Currywurst
The origins of currywurst trace back to post-war Berlin. According to legend, the dish was invented in 1949 by Herta Heuwer, a resourceful woman from the Charlottenburg district. She allegedly traded spirits with British soldiers in exchange for ketchup and curry powder. By experimenting with these ingredients, she crafted a unique sauce that she then poured over grilled sausages, and thus, currywurst was born! Heuwer started selling this delicious and affordable street snack, which quickly became a hit, especially among construction workers rebuilding the city. Currywurst became a symbol of Berlin's resilience and is still a cherished part of the city's food culture today. There is also speculation that currywurst might have originated in Hamburg as early as 1947, credited to a woman named Lena Brรผcker. Regardless of its true origins, one thing remains clear โ currywurst is a culinary icon in Germany!๐ Storing Leftovers
- The currywurst sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat before serving again.
๐ Pro Tips for an Authentic Experience
- If you ever find yourself in Germany, skip the fast food chains and try currywurst from a local Imbiss.
- Some of the best versions are served from small street vendors, often marked by long queues โ always a good sign!
- For an authentic Berlin-style currywurst, ask for it "ohne Darm" (without casing) for a softer texture.
