Käsekrainer
A type of Austrian sausage containing small chunks of cheese (usually Emmental or similar).
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Walter & Michi's Würstlstand
Sausage making in Austria has a long tradition, influenced by various cultures within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The Käsekrainer, a relatively modern invention, builds upon this tradition by incorporating cheese, reflecting a culinary evolution focused on adding flavor and texture to classic recipes.
Käsekrainer is a popular fast food and street food in Austria, often enjoyed at sausage stands (Würstelstände) and festivals. It's considered a quintessential Austrian snack.
Würstelstände Staple
Käsekrainer is almost always available at Würstelstände, the ubiquitous Austrian sausage stands. These stands are an integral part of Austrian culture, serving as gathering places for a quick and affordable meal.
Popular at Festivals
You'll find Käsekrainer being grilled and served at various festivals and markets throughout Austria. Its portability and deliciousness make it a perfect festival food.
Versatile Dish
While often eaten as a snack, Käsekrainer can also be served as a main course with side dishes like mustard, horseradish (Kren), pickles, and bread or fries. It's a dish that can be adapted to different eating contexts.
Käsekrainer offers a savory, smoky, and cheesy flavor profile, creating a satisfying and rich experience.
The dominant flavors are smoky pork and creamy, slightly nutty cheese, typically Emmental or similar. Garlic and other spices contribute to the savory depth, while the casing provides a satisfying snap. The cheese melts during cooking, creating pockets of molten delight within the sausage.
Proper Cooking
Avoid boiling Käsekrainer, as this can cause the cheese to leak out. Grilling, pan-frying, or simmering in hot (but not boiling) water are preferred methods to retain the cheese inside the sausage.
Scoring the Sausage
Before cooking, score the sausage lightly with a knife. This prevents it from bursting open as the cheese melts and expands, allowing the steam to escape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Käsekrainer with a dollop of spicy mustard (Estragonsenf), freshly grated horseradish (Kren), or pickled vegetables (Essiggurken). Crusty bread or fries are excellent accompaniments.
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