Wisconsin-inspired Cheesy Bratwurst Paella

Ingredients

In this Wisconsin-inspired adaptation of Paella Valenciana, we substitute the traditional seafood and chicken with bratwurst, a popular sausage in Wisconsin. Additionally, we incorporate Wisconsin cheese into the dish, adding a creamy and indulgent element that enhances the flavors of the bratwurst and spices. These modifications infuse the dish with the distinct flavors of Wisconsin, while still maintaining the essence of the original Spanish paella. We alse have the original recipe for Paella Valenciana, so you can check it out.

• 4 bratwurst sausages, sliced into bite-sized pieces 4 bratwurst sausages, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (185g) Arborio rice 1 cup (185g) Arborio rice
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (235ml) crushed tomatoes 1 cup (235ml) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup (115g) shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese 1 cup (115g) shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 520 kcal / 2176 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced bratwurst and cook until browned. Remove the bratwurst from the pan and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same pan, add the diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
4. 4.
   Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and saffron threads. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir to coat it with the spices and vegetables.
6. 6.
   Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the rice cook for about 20 minutes, or until it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8. 8.
   Once the rice is cooked, return the bratwurst to the pan and mix it with the rice.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese over the top of the paella. Cover the pan and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bratwurst — Ensure the bratwurst is fully cooked before adding it to the paella. You can also grill or pan-fry the bratwurst separately for added flavor.
• Saffron threads — To enhance the flavor and color, soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the dish.
• Wisconsin cheddar cheese — Use a good-quality Wisconsin cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting properties. Feel free to experiment with other Wisconsin cheese varieties, such as Colby or Monterey Jack, for a different twist.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, use smoked bratwurst or add a touch of liquid smoke to the dish.
• If you prefer a spicier paella, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as peas, corn, or mushrooms.
• Serve the paella with a side of tangy Wisconsin sauerkraut for a traditional Wisconsin touch.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day, allowing the flavors to meld even further.

Serving advice

Serve the Cheesy Bratwurst Paella as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or crusty bread. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Presentation advice

Present the Cheesy Bratwurst Paella in the paella pan or skillet it was cooked in, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine. Alternatively, transfer the paella to a large serving platter and sprinkle additional shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese and parsley on top for an inviting presentation.