Add the oil to a large skillet set over medium heat. When the oil's hot add the sausages and sear on both sides, roughly 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer them to a waiting plate.
1 tbsp canola oil, 5 fresh bratwurst sausages
Add the onion to the skillet, stirring often, and cooking until it's translucent and has begun to brown some. Add the garlic and stir to combine, then cook for 60 seconds, and remove the skillet from heat.
1 large sweet onion, 3 garlic cloves
To the bowl of your slow cooker add the prepared sauerkraut, cooked onions, apple, beer, sugar, mustard, and caraway seeds. Place the seared brats on top.
16 oz sauerkrait, 1 honeycrisp apple, 1 12 oz lager style beer, 2 packed tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp whole grain mustard, 1/2 tsp caraway seeds
Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours, or 3-4 hours on HIGH.
Serve warm and enjoy!