There are so many different types of sausages — hot dogs, bratwurst, pepperwurst, chorizo, kielbasa — the list goes on, each link touting its own unique flavors and textures. But have you tried knackwurst? It's one of the most delicious sausages available and it's simple to cook!
Tip
To cook knackwurst, bring a large pot of water to a boil and then turn off the burner. Once the bubbles have subsided (2 to 3 minutes), add your knackwurst to the pot and cover it for 10 to 15 minutes. Pull from the water with tongs and serve!
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What is Knackwurst?
Knackwurst is a smoked German sausage stuffed with veal and pork that dates back centuries ago. And while it's been around for hundreds of years, it still continues to be popular in many countries, including in the U.S. Here, it's taken on a slightly different spelling — knockwurst (but you may also see it as "berliner schinkenknacker" on a menu). Knackwurst comes in a few different varietals, but overall, it's known for being garlicky and smokey, which packs a powerful punch whether you are eating it alone with a fork and knife or on a bun with condiments.
According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, knackwurst is sold fully cooked, but is usually served hot. This is quite helpful for the cooking novice, because literally all you have to do is heat up your knackwurst and it's ready to be consumed. It can be grilled, fried or baked in the oven, but if you want to cook it the traditional way, try the boiling method. Wow — the end result is incredible!
Knackwurst Boiling Method
The boiling method is not only basic, but it also delivers an incredible knackwurst with minimal cleanup afterwards.
- Fill a large pot or pan 3/4 of the way with water and set on the stovetop.
- Add 2 pinches of salt and then turn your burner on high.
- When the water comes to a boil, turn off the burner and let it settle for a minute or two. (You must wait until the boil dissipates before moving onto the next step.)
- Using a pair of tongs, slowly lower your knackwurst(s) into the pot and cover with a lid.
- Keep the knackwurst in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes and then remove using tongs.
- Serve your knackwurst with mustard dipping sauce or in a bun with condiments of your choice. Enjoy!
If you really want to experience authentic flavors, try serving your knackwurst with a side of sauerkraut, mustard and onions. Not only do these tastes pair wonderfully together, but unpasteurized sauerkraut is a natural probiotic and is packed with nutrition.
Nutrition and Health Information
It's so darn delicious, but how does knackwurst stack up nutritionally? According to the USDA, one link of knackwurst has approximately 221 calories and is high in vitamin B12. The drawback of knackwurst, however, is that the same link is comprised of 19.9 grams of fat, 7.4 grams of saturated fats and 43.2 milligrams of cholesterol, which should all be consumed in moderation for an overall healthy dietary pattern.
When incorporating knackwurst into your diet from time to time, try pairing it with nutritious side dishes like green beans, broccolini, spinach salad or probiotic-packed sauerkraut as mentioned earlier. If consuming your knackwurst in a bun, try a whole-grain bread and garnish it with chopped veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers and pickles. Not only do these vegetables add some nice substance and crunch to each bite, but they also help round out your meal with added fiber, minerals and vitamins.
Read more: Chicken Sausage Nutrition Information
- National Hot Dog and Sausage Council: “Glossary of Sausages and Prepared Meats”
- Harvard Health Publishing: “The growing role of probiotics”
- MyFoodData.com: “Nutrition Facts for Knackwurst Knockwurst Pork Beef”
- American Heart Association: “The American Heart Association Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations”
- National Hot Dog and Sausage Council: "Tips for Cooking Linked Sausage"