The Origins of Kern's Sausage Kitchen
Founded in 1952 by German immigrant John Kern, Kern's Sausage Kitchen began as a small butcher shop in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Drawing from centuries-old German sausage-making traditions, Kern brought authentic recipes and techniques to his new community. The business initially served local residents seeking high-quality sausages reminiscent of those found in Germany. By the late 1950s, Kern's had established itself as a regional destination for authentic bratwurst, polish sausage, and other traditional varieties.
What distinguishes kerns sausage history is its unwavering commitment to traditional methods. While many competitors modernized their production processes, Kern's maintained time-honored techniques including natural casings, slow curing, and small-batch preparation. This dedication to authenticity has preserved the distinctive flavor profile that customers have come to expect from kerns sausage products for generations.
Traditional Sausage-Making Techniques
Kern's Sausage follows a meticulous preparation process that begins with selecting premium cuts of pork, beef, and poultry. The meat is ground fresh daily using vintage equipment that maintains optimal temperature control—a critical factor in sausage quality that modern high-speed grinders often compromise.
The seasoning blends remain closely guarded family recipes, featuring precise measurements of spices like nutmeg, white pepper, and marjoram. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, Kern's sausages contain no fillers, artificial preservatives, or unnecessary additives. Each batch undergoes careful quality control before being stuffed into natural casings that provide the characteristic snap when cooked.
| Popular Kern's Sausage Varieties | Key Ingredients | Best Cooking Method |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Bratwurst | Pork, ice, spices, natural casing | Grill or pan-fry over medium heat |
| Polish Sausage | Pork, garlic, marjoram, natural casing | Simmer then finish on grill |
| Smoked Bratwurst | Pork, hickory smoke, spices | Grill or bake without pre-boiling |
| Breakfast Sausage | Pork, sage, black pepper | Pan-fry over medium-low heat |
Where to Find Kern's Sausage Products
While Kern's Sausage Kitchen maintains several retail locations across Wisconsin, their products have expanded availability through various channels. Understanding where to buy kerns sausage helps enthusiasts access these premium products regardless of location.
The company operates five retail stores in eastern Wisconsin, with the original Sheboygan location serving as both production facility and flagship store. Each location features a butcher counter, deli, and retail section where customers can purchase fresh sausages, prepared foods, and Wisconsin specialty items. For those outside Wisconsin, Kern's offers nationwide shipping through their online store, with products shipped frozen in insulated packaging to maintain freshness.
Additionally, select grocery chains in the Midwest carry Kern's products, particularly during peak sausage season (spring through fall). Local butcher shops and specialty food stores sometimes stock Kern's sausages, though availability varies by region. The company's website features a store locator tool that helps customers find the nearest retail location or authorized dealer.
Cooking with Kern's Sausage
Proper preparation enhances the quality of kerns sausage recipes and preserves the authentic flavors developed through traditional methods. Unlike lower-quality sausages that require boiling to cook through, Kern's premium products need only thorough cooking to safe internal temperatures (160°F for pork sausages).
For best results with bratwurst, grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently until golden brown with an internal temperature of 160°F. Avoid pricking the sausages, as this releases flavorful juices. Polish sausage benefits from a two-step process: simmer in beer or broth for 10 minutes, then finish on the grill for caramelization.
Many Wisconsin households incorporate Kern's sausages into traditional dishes like sauerkraut and sausage, beer-braised brats, or simple preparations with grilled onions and peppers. The company's website features authentic kerns sausage cooking tips from generations of satisfied customers, reflecting regional culinary traditions.
Quality Recognition and Community Impact
Kern's Sausage Kitchen has received numerous accolades recognizing their commitment to quality. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture has consistently rated their facilities among the state's cleanest and most well-managed meat processing operations. Local food critics and culinary organizations have praised Kern's for preserving traditional sausage-making methods while meeting modern food safety standards.
Beyond product quality, Kern's maintains strong community ties through participation in local festivals, sponsorship of youth sports, and support for regional food banks. The company's annual brat fry during Sheboygan's Summerfest has become a community tradition, drawing thousands of visitors each year. This community focus has helped Kern's Sausage Kitchen remain a beloved regional institution for over seventy years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kern's Sausage Kitchen located?
Kern's Sausage Kitchen operates five retail locations in Wisconsin, with the original store and production facility in Sheboygan. Additional locations serve the Milwaukee metropolitan area and other eastern Wisconsin communities. Their website provides a complete store locator with addresses, hours, and contact information for each location.
Does Kern's Sausage offer shipping outside Wisconsin?
Yes, Kern's Sausage Kitchen ships products nationwide through their online store. They use insulated packaging with dry ice to ensure products arrive frozen and fresh. Shipping options include 2-day and overnight delivery, with orders typically processed within 24-48 hours of placement.
What makes Kern's sausage different from supermarket brands?
Kern's sausages use premium cuts of meat without fillers, artificial preservatives, or unnecessary additives. They maintain traditional preparation methods including natural casings and small-batch production. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, Kern's products contain higher meat content and authentic seasoning blends developed over generations, resulting in superior flavor and texture.
How should I store Kern's sausages after purchase?
Fresh Kern's sausages should be refrigerated and used within 3-5 days of purchase. For longer storage, freeze the sausages in their original packaging for up to 3 months. When freezing, place sausages in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Thaw frozen sausages in the refrigerator before cooking for best results.
Does Kern's Sausage Kitchen offer tours of their production facility?
Yes, Kern's Sausage Kitchen offers limited facility tours at their Sheboygan location. Tours are available by appointment only and must be scheduled in advance through their website. The tours showcase traditional sausage-making methods while highlighting the company's commitment to food safety and quality control throughout the production process.
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