It’s Bockwurst Season

Photography provided by Lauren Schulte of @TheBiteSizePantry.

With Easter just around the corner, we’ve officially made it to Bockwurst season! Contrary to its name, this European sausage is anything but the “wurst!” In fact, it’s actually a Heinen family staple at Easter, and no one loves it more than Tom Heinen!

What exactly is Bockwurst? According to Tom, “Bockwurst is a traditional German sausage that my grandfather introduced decades ago to the Cleveland market. It has a very distinctive taste and is much leaner than traditional sausages. It is great for breakfast, lunch or dinner and is only available for a couple of weeks around the Easter holiday, so one has to ‘carpe diem’! (Seize the day).”

Unlike other sausages, Bockwurst is unique because of it’s two primary ingredients: veal and milk. These are ingredients you don’t normally see in sausage.

While typically enjoyed during the Easter season, Tom always stocks his freezer with a few extra links to enjoy throughout the year. If you don’t intend to eat it quickly, we recommend doing the same.

Interested in seeing what all of the hype is about? Visit your local Heinen’s meat department and ask the butcher for a few links.

Note: Bockwurst does not do well on the grill. See below for Tom’s favorite way to prepare this special German sausage!

Method:

1. Lay the Bockwurst in a single layer on the bottom of a large pot. Add enough cold water to cover the Bockwurst by about an inch.
2. On the stove over medium-low heat, slowly bring the water to just below boiling. Don’t let the water boil. It should take 30-40 minutes to reach the “near boiling point.”
3. As the water reaches the near boiling point, remove the pot from the heat.
4. Put a tight lid on the pot and allow to rest for 15–20 minutes. Carefully remove the Bockwurst with tongs, being mindful not to split the skin.
5. The Bockwurst will be fully cooked when the internal temperature of the meat registers at 165˚F. If you notice the Bockwurst casing beginning to split during the cooking process, quickly lower the heat.

Tom’s Tip: Finish the Bockwurst by browning it in a pan (butter optional) to create a slightly crisp texture.