What is Knackwurst? How to Cook Smoked Knackwurst Sausage

Named for the satisfying knack, the crisp snap of biting through its smoked casing, Knackwurst is one of Germany's most characterful sausages. Bold, garlicky, and deeply smoky, our Smoked Knackwurst Sausage is made to a traditional recipe at Eve Smallgoods.

What is Knackwurst?

Knackwurst originates from northern Germany. It is made from coarsely ground pork, seasoned with garlic and spices, then cold-smoked. Like Wienerle, it is pre-cooked and simply needs to be heated before serving. Its thick casing creates the trademark snap.

How to Cook Knackwurst

1. Simmering

1. Bring water to a gentle simmer, do not boil.
2. Add the Knackwurst and simmer for 7–10 minutes.
3. Remove and serve immediately.

Best served with: Rye bread, hot mustard, and dark German lager.

2. Grilling

1. Score the casing lightly, if desired.
2. Grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, turning regularly, until blistered and charred in spots.

Best served with: Sauerkraut, grilled onions, and a dark rye roll.

3. Pan-Frying with Beer & Onions

1. Cook sliced onions in butter until deeply golden.
2. Add the Knackwurst and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning.
3. Deglaze with 125ml dark beer and simmer until syrupy.

Best served with: Mashed potato or sauerkraut.

Knackwurst & Lentil Soup

Smoked Knackwurst and lentils are one of Germany's great cold-weather combinations.

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 2 x Eve Smallgoods Smoked Knackwurst Sausages, sliced
• 250g green or brown lentils
• 1 brown onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1L chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt, pepper, and fresh parsley

Method

1. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened. Add garlic.
2. Add lentils and stock. Simmer for 25–30 minutes until tender.
3. Stir in sliced Knackwurst and simmer for a further 5 minutes.
4. Finish with vinegar, adjust seasoning, and serve with parsley and crusty bread.

Shop Smoked Knackwurst

Order our Smoked Knackwurst Sausage online from Eve Smallgoods and taste a piece of genuine German sausage tradition.