Franz Mushroom Sauce and Bratwurst

"Fall is around the corner and Franz is here to greet it. A new recipe with a crowd favorite, this easy to make mushroom gravy and bratwurst will put you in the Oktoberfest mood!"-Chef Christian Gill

Mushroom Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 can of Rhinegeist Franz
• 1 cup of sliced cremini mushrooms
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh curly parsley
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon of coarse ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon of flour

This is crazy easy and full of German flavor!

Mushroom Sauce Instructions:

• In a medium skillet melt your butter and sauté your diced onions and pepper for 1 minute.
• Lightly sprinkle the flour over your onions and peppers and toss to coat.
• Once the flour coats the vegetables and the butter is absorbed, crack open the Franz, take a swig, then slowly whisk in the can of Franz.
• Make sure all the flour dissolves, then bring to a boil.
• Add bouillon cubes and mushrooms. Stir frequently while bringing back to a gentle boil.
• Turn heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
• Add parsley and pepper. Salt to taste if needed.
• Pour over your favorite Wurst and potatoes!

Now for the recipe of potatoes and pan seared bratwurst.

Potatoes and Bratwurst Ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh bratwurst
• 1 cup of Rhinegeist Franz
• 7 medium sized red skin potatoes quartered
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• 1 teaspoon of minced chives

Potatoes and Bratwurst Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
• Toss your red skin quarters in chives, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt and pepper.
• Spread evenly on a cookie sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
• Take this time to make the Franz Mushroom sauce (above) and brats!
• Bring the cup of Franz to a boil in a medium saucepan.
• Add brats and gently boil for 15 minutes.
• In a medium skillet heat one tablespoon of olive oil.
• Drain the brats from the Franz, and add to hot skillet.
• Pan sear on medium-high for 1 minute per side.

Pair with Brussels sprouts, or whatever your favorite greens are, and feast!