Wurstplatte!

One of my favorite restaurants is Cafe Berlin on Capital Hill in Washington, DC. They have great German food, some of the best I've had. The first time I went there, I felt as though I was walking into my Grandmother's house during the Christmas holidays. They were decorated for the season, the place was warm and the food was amazing. That was over ten years ago. I've been going regularly since then. 90% of the time I order the Deutsche Wurstplatte. A big plate with a bratwurst, a weisswurst, fried potatoes, sauerkraut and a pan sauce. I want to lick my plate its so good.

The other night I made my version of the Deutsche Wurstplatte. I had bratwurst only, but they were pan fried until browned and cooked thru. I started my pan sauce with some chopped shallots, a little flour to make a light roux and deglazed with some broth (a mix of chicken & beef). The sauce simmered and thickened. Prior & meanwhile, I made a batch of pan fried potatoes that were cooked in a little olive oil, salt & pepper and some seasonings. The sauerkraut was a tasty dish. I rinse and drain my store bought kraut. I add a little chicken broth, some caraway seeds, salt & pepper and one grated apple. Cover and simmer until cooked and delicious. The apple helps take out some, but not all, of the tart, tangy, bitter flavors. When the wurst were browned, I put them the in the pot of kraut to finish cooking while I made the sauce and finished the potatoes.

For the most fun, serve all on a giant platter, family style. Drink beer.

Prost!