Bratwurst, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I’m almost sure that’s the way Elizabeth Barrett Browning originally intended to begin her classis poem, but for whatever reason dismissed the idea before the poem was published. (Perhaps she discovered soft pretzels at the same time and couldn’t decide on which of these two master pieces of culinary delight should be immortalized in her literary masterpiece.) That can be the only reason I can think of that Bratwurst was excluded from her opening sentence.

But regardless, Bratwurst cooked with beer and onions should be immortalized. Therefore, I offer my late great friend Davey Finch’s recipe.

I have also taken the liberty to include Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s wonderful poem. Like good Bratwurst, wonderful poetry never goes out of style. It remains a treasure to be shared with others, and used as a reminder that we live in a wonderful world full of lovely food, great literature and art, amazing music, and treasured friendships. Cheers to Davey Finch and to all our friends who were blessed by his loving and generous spirit.

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday’s
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with a passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood’s faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, — I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! — and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.

• Bratwurst (I use Johnsonville), any amount you want
• Beer (not light beer, but nothing too dark either – an amber or pale ale works great), a bottle or two depending on how many Bratwurst you are cooking (I use 2 bottles for 20-25 Bratwurst)
• Chopped onion, ½ large yellow onion for 10 Bratwurst; 1onion for 20-25, etc. etc.

Combine Bratwurst (Brats), beer and onion in a covered pan. Bring to boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer for about 40 minutes. Remove Brats from pan and transfer to a pre-heated barbecue. (Reserve the beer and onion liquid.) Grill until nicely browned. Return to beer/onion liquid. Keep warm. Serve with any of your favorite mustards.