How to Cook Knackwurst: A Guide to Germany’s Traditional Smoked Sausage

With its distinctive smoky flavour, garlic seasoning and satisfying snap, Knackwurst is a classic of German sausage making. Eve Smallgoods Smoked Knackwurst brings traditional European smallgoods heritage to your kitchen and is easy to enjoy in a variety of dishes.

From gently heated sausages served with mustard and sauerkraut to grilled Knackwurst and hearty winter soup, here are a few simple ways to enjoy this traditional favourite.

What Is Knackwurst?

Knackwurst is a traditional German sausage known for its savoury seasoning, smoky flavour and characteristic knack, or snap, when you bite into it.

Traditionally associated with garlic and a blend of spices, Knackwurst is smoked to develop its rich flavour. Eve Smallgoods Smoked Knackwurst is pre-cooked, making it convenient to reheat and serve or add to your favourite recipes.

How to Cook Knackwurst

Knackwurst is simple to prepare. Try one of these three methods to enjoy its smoky flavour and satisfying texture.

1. Gently Simmered Knackwurst

Simmering warms the sausage while helping it stay juicy.

Method

1. Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling.

2. Add the pre-cooked Knackwurst and heat for approximately 7–10 minutes, until heated through.

3. Remove carefully and serve immediately.

Serving suggestion: Pair with rye bread, hot mustard and sauerkraut for a German-inspired meal.

2. Grilled Knackwurst

Grilling adds colour and a lightly browned finish while bringing out the sausage’s smoky notes.

Method

1. Preheat your barbecue or grill to medium heat.

2. Grill the sausages for approximately 6–8 minutes, turning regularly until heated through and lightly browned.

3. Remove from the heat and serve.

Avoid excessive heat, which can cause the casing to split.

Serving suggestion: Serve in a crusty bread roll with grilled onions and mustard, or alongside sauerkraut.

3. Knackwurst with Beer and Caramelised Onions

For a hearty meal inspired by German flavours, combine Knackwurst with golden onions and a rich beer sauce.

Method

1. Slice one or two onions and cook in butter over medium-low heat until soft and golden.

2. Add the Knackwurst and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning regularly.

3. Pour in approximately 125 ml of dark beer and simmer until the liquid has reduced to a rich sauce and the sausages are heated through.

4. Serve hot.

Serving suggestion: Enjoy with creamy mashed potatoes, sauerkraut or warm crusty bread.

Recipe: Smoked Knackwurst and Lentil Soup

This hearty soup combines smoky Knackwurst, tender lentils and fresh vegetables for a warming meal that’s perfect for cooler days.

Ingredients

Serves 4

• 2 Eve Smallgoods Smoked Knackwurst Sausages, sliced

• 250 g green or brown lentils, rinsed

• 1 brown onion, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 litre chicken or vegetable stock

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Crusty bread, to serve

Method

1. Heat a little oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots and celery, cooking until softened.

2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the lentils and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Add extra water or stock if needed.

4. Stir through the sliced Smoked Knackwurst and simmer for a further 5 minutes, until heated through.

5. Add the red wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Ladle into bowls and finish with fresh parsley.

Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal full of smoky flavour.

Discover Eve Smallgoods Smoked Knackwurst

Eve Smallgoods brings together five generations of European smallgoods-making heritage, with products made in Queensland by our family-owned and operated business.

Our Smoked Knackwurst is a versatile choice for hearty breakfasts, easy dinners, barbecue spreads and traditional European-inspired recipes.

Ready to try it?

Explore our Smoked Knackwurst Sausage and discover more from Eve Smallgoods.