German sausages are popular and loved by many, but not everyone knows the interesting secrets behind this dish.
The Germans say: “Nothing can stop the sausage ship from sailing around the world. Wherever there is something important, there is fire and grilled sausages…” This dish has become a source of pride for Germans and a highlight in the culinary culture of the country.
German sausages are delicious and famous everywhere, but not everyone is aware of the intriguing secrets about this “specialty.”
What is the origin of German sausages?
To survive the harsh winters and food shortages, ancient Germans invented sausages by stuffing various minced meats into the intestines of pigs.
This dish helped people endure the harshness of nature. Passed down through generations, German sausages have become a popular food worldwide.
Sausages were created to help ancient Germans survive harsh winters. (Photo: Danita Delimont)
How many types of German sausages are there?
In Germany, there are over 1,500 different types of sausages made from pork, beef, poultry, lamb, and more, with each region having its own special recipes and spices that create unique sausages.
However, German sausages can be categorized into three main types: Rohwurst (raw sausage, uncooked), Brühwurst (boiled sausage), and Kochwurst (sausage made from already cooked ingredients).
Rohwurst: Uncooked sausage. (Photo: AdobeStock)
Brühwurst: Boiled sausage (Illustrative photo)
Kochwurst: Sausage made from cooked ingredients. (Photo: EDEKA)
How are German sausages prepared?
There are 4 basic methods for preparing sausages. The first is grilling until the outer skin of the sausage is charred, then served with ketchup or mustard. The next is boiled sausage, which is usually eaten with bread.
Grilled sausage (Illustrative photo)
Boiled sausage served with bread. (Illustrative photo)
A more elaborate method is smoking the sausage with a filling of smoked pork or beef, giving it a richer flavor than other types. Finally, there is curry sausage, which is essentially grilled sausage sliced and topped with curry and a bit of chili powder. This is typically served with potatoes and bread to balance the saltiness and spiciness of the spices.
Smoked German sausage (Illustrative photo)
Curry German sausage (Photo: Live like a German)
Did you know that there is a museum dedicated to German sausages?
In Germany, sausages are celebrated as an achievement and a source of national pride, so it is not surprising that there is a museum showcasing the history and development of this dish. On May 28, 2006, the “Bratwurst Museum” officially opened in the state of Thuringia, Germany.
Museum view. (Photo: timesofisrael)
Some exhibits on display. (Photo: ottsworld)
An event taking place in the sausage museum. (Photo: bratwurstmuseum)