A flavorful controversy is brewing in Germany as the two states of Bavaria and Thuringia battle for the title of the true birthplace of the iconic Bratwurst sausage. At the heart of the matter is the renowned "Wurstkuchl" tavern, which proudly claims to be the oldest Bratwurst stand in the world. Situated on the picturesque Stone Bridge in Regensburg, Bavaria, this establishment has historical roots dating back to 1378, making it a symbol of Bavarian culinary tradition.
However, historians from Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, have uncovered a tantalizing piece of evidence that may challenge this perspective. A document dating back to 1269 has surfaced, indicating the existence of a meat-roasting stand (Brathütte) and a roasting pan (Bräter) in Thuringia—over a century earlier than Regensburg's claims. This revelation has sparked a spirited search for the original sausage stand’s location in Erfurt, as no establishment there has claimed the distinction of being the oldest.
While previously the earliest written record of Bratwursts in Thuringia dated to 1404, which referred to the cost of "1 groschen for bratwurst casings" in Arnstadt, this new evidence could change the narrative of the sausage's history.
Back in Regensburg, Wurstkuchl’s landlady, Alexandra Meier, remains unfazed by the findings, expressing pride in the quality of their homemade sausages and the tradition that they uphold. Her establishment’s website highlights their dedication to time-honored methods, including cooking over an open charcoal grill and the fermentation of their own sauerkraut.
As the delicious debate continues, historians urge community support for uncovering the origins of the bratwurst in Thuringia, while both regions continue to delight in their rich culinary heritage. This isn’t the first time Bavaria and Thuringia have sparred over sausage supremacy. The Bavarian towns of Regensburg and Nuremberg previously fought for their own title, ultimately leading to Regensburg's acknowledgment as the oldest. As this tasty beef remains unresolved, it reaffirms that the allure of Bratwurst is as rich and complex as its history.
