Do I like the taste of Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst? No, I do not like the taste of Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst.
The flavor is bland and doesn’t meet the expectations set by other Kirkland Signature products. While the outside is well-seasoned, the inside lacks the savory taste you’d expect from a good bratwurst.
The texture is also lacking — it’s somewhat rubbery and doesn’t have the hearty bite that bratwurst lovers enjoy.
other Products and sausage items from Costco are Rao’s Cavatappi Arrabbiata with Spicy Sausage, Paleo Andouille Costco Chicken Sausage, Organic Spinach & Cheese Ravioli, Tyson Panko Breaded Chicken Breast Tenderloins, Hot Honey Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites, Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks and the Don Lee Farms Fully Cooked Grilled Chicken Patty
Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst
Taste Test
Despite the flavor being decent and slightly reminiscent of a breakfast sausage, albeit less intense, my overall experience with the bratwurst was marred by a negative encounter. During my taste test, I bit into a hard, squishy piece that significantly detracted from my enjoyment of the product.
This unpleasant surprise overshadowed the good taste and casing, ultimately leading me to give it a thumbs down.
Nutrition Analysis
When looking at the nutrition facts for Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst, it’s clear these bratwursts are high in calories and fat. Each grilled link (86g) has 290 calories, with 210 from fat.
This means about 72% of the calories come from fat, which is quite significant. Each serving contains 23g of total fat, including 8g of saturated fat. This is something to keep in mind if you’re monitoring your fat intake.
The cholesterol content is 60mg per link, and the sodium is notably high at 730mg. Given that the recommended daily sodium intake is around 2,300mg, one bratwurst would account for nearly a third of that limit.
while these bratwursts offer a good amount of protein, their high levels of fat and sodium make them less ideal for a healthier diet. This supports my overall impression: although Kirkland Signature products are usually known for their quality, these bratwursts don’t meet the mark in terms of flavor and nutritional balance.
Ingredients Analysis
The ingredient list for Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst is simple and straightforward: PORK, WATER, SALT, DEXTROSE, SUGAR, VINEGAR POWDER, NATURAL FLAVORS. While simple ingredients can indicate a less processed product, it might also contribute to the lackluster taste.
PORK is the main ingredient, providing the expected meaty flavor and texture of a bratwurst. WATER helps bind the ingredients and maintain moisture, but too much can make the texture rubbery, as noted in the taste.
SALT, DEXTROSE, and SUGAR are used for seasoning and taste enhancement, but these basic seasonings may not be enough to elevate the flavor. VINEGAR POWDER and NATURAL FLAVORS are intended to add depth, but they seem insufficient in masking or compensating for the minimal seasoning.
Overall, while the ingredients are natural and uncomplicated, they don’t deliver the robust and savory taste one might expect from a premium bratwurst.
How I Cook Brats Original Bratwurst
I found that grilling the bratwursts did not yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture. Instead, I recommend trying other methods like stovetop or broiling.
Grill Instructions
Heat the Grill:
- Gas Grill: Preheat to medium-low.
- Charcoal Grill: Allow the charcoal to burn until white ash has formed on the embers.
Cooking the Bratwurst:
- Place the links on the grill.
- Use tongs to turn the bratwursts often.
- Grill the bratwursts for 20 to 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Price Analysis
Kirkland Signature Original Bratwurst comes in a 56 oz box containing 14 links and is priced at $9.99. Considering the quantity and the fact that they’re part of the Kirkland Signature line, I think the price is not bad.
You get a decent amount of bratwursts for under ten dollars, making it a cost-effective option for feeding a larger group or for multiple meals. However, given my reservations about their taste and texture, it’s important to weigh the cost against the potential for less-than-satisfactory culinary enjoyment.
Convenience
One of the main benefits of Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst is their convenience. These bratwursts are fully cooked, so you just need to heat them up before eating. This saves time on busy weeknights or when you need a quick meal for a gathering.
They work well with various cooking methods, whether it’s grilling, pan-frying, or microwaving, giving you flexibility based on your time and taste preferences.
Additionally, the bratwursts come in a resealable package, which helps keep them fresh for longer. This is useful if you don’t plan to eat all the links at once. The easy storage and preparation make these bratwursts a practical choice, even if the taste and texture might not match other options.
Review Score
- Taste: 6/10
- Nutrition :4/10
- Ingredients: 7/10
- Cost: 8/10
- Convenience: 8/10
Overall
Give It a Try !
The Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst are convenient and affordable, but they don’t excel in taste or nutritional balance. They can be a decent choice for a quick meal or feeding a large group. However, those with a more refined palate or who are conscious of their diet might be disappointed.
The simple ingredients and low cost are appealing, but they don’t make up for the lackluster flavor and texture. In summary, while not the worst option, there are likely better bratwursts available that offer a more satisfying experience. As always, taste is subjective, so it might still be worth trying them if you shop at Costco.
FAQs
Are Costco Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst fully cooked?
Yes, these bratwursts are fully cooked, which means you only need to heat them up before eating. This makes them convenient for quick meals.
How should I store the bratwurst after opening the package?
The bratwursts come in a resealable package, which helps maintain their freshness. After opening, you should keep the remaining links refrigerated and consume them within a few days.
Can these bratwursts be cooked in the microwave?
Yes, you can heat these bratwursts in the microwave. Simply place them on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a paper towel, and heat on high for 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through.
What is the best way to grill the Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst?
For grilling, preheat your gas grill to medium-low or wait until the charcoal forms white ash. Cook the bratwursts for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them often with tongs, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How many calories are in one link of Kirkland Signature Brats Original Bratwurst?
Each grilled link (86g) contains 290 calories, with 210 of those calories coming from fat.
Are there any allergens in these bratwursts?
The ingredients list includes pork, water, salt, dextrose, sugar, vinegar powder, and natural flavors. It does not specify common allergens like gluten, dairy, or nuts, but always check the packaging for any additional allergen information.
How do these bratwursts compare in terms of taste and nutrition to other brands?
While taste is subjective, the Kirkland Signature Brats have received mixed reviews for their flavor and texture. Nutritionally, they are high in calories, fat, and sodium, which might not be ideal for those on a health-conscious diet.
Are these bratwursts a good value for the price?
Priced at $9.99 for a 56 oz box containing 14 links, they offer a cost-effective solution for feeding larger groups or for multiple meals. However, individual preferences regarding taste and quality may affect the perceived value.
Disclaimer
Please be aware that this review is independent and unbiased. The product was purchased by Costcoverdict solely for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed here belong solely to Costcoverdict and do not reflect any affiliation with Costco or its suppliers. Should Costcoverdict ever receive compensation from a product manufacturer or any other third party, full disclosure will be provided, including instances where a product sample was provided for review purposes
