Preheat an outdoor grill.

Place the bratwurst, beer, and onion in a large skillet. Season with pepper. Simmer, slightly covered, until the brats are cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Drain off the beer. Place the brats on the grill and cook until the skins are crisp, about 5 minutes. (If you've got inclement weather, brown the brats in the pan.)

Meanwhile, saute the onions in the skillet, stirring in the thyme and paprika. Deglaze the pan with the balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits. Adjust seasonings.

Serve the brats in buns with the onions and your favorite condiments.