Savory Apple-Infused Sauerkraut
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Savory Apple-Infused Sauerkraut, a traditional German dish that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the sweetness of apples and the richness of white wine. This dish serves as an excellent side for sausages, roast meats, or as a flavorful topping for sandwiches. Perfect for gatherings or simply to elevate a weeknight dinner, this recipe brings a comforting, hearty element to your table. Share this culinary gem from Germany with your friends and family, and enjoy the delightful flavors and aromas that will fill your kitchen.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
sauerkraut
1 quart (drained)
onion
1/4 cup (sliced)
butter or bacon drippings
2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
medium apples
2-3 (washed, peeled, and cored, then diced)
white wine
1 1/2 cups (dry preferred)
beef stock or bouillon
1/2 cup (as needed for consistency)
brown sugar
1 teaspoon (for sweetness)
celery seed
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Drain the sauerkraut slightly to remove excess liquid.
2
In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat the bacon drippings over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3
Stir in the drained sauerkraut, mixing thoroughly with the onions. Cook slowly for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
4
Meanwhile, wash, peel, and core the apples. Dice the fruit and add it to the sauerkraut mixture. Stir to combine.
5
Pour in the white wine and add enough beef stock or bouillon to ensure the mixture is just covered.
6
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7
After 30 minutes, add the brown sugar and celery seed, stirring to incorporate. Cover the skillet and transfer it to a preheated oven set at 325°F (160°C).
8
Bake the sauerkraut for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the apples to soften. Serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Apple-Infused Sauerkraut?
It is a traditional German side dish that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the sweetness of apples and the richness of white wine.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
The dish offers a balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors thanks to the sauerkraut, apples, and brown sugar.
What type of wine should be used?
A dry white wine is preferred for this recipe to complement the acidity of the sauerkraut.
Can I use bacon grease instead of butter?
Yes, you can use 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings for added richness and a smoky flavor.
How should the sauerkraut be prepared before cooking?
The sauerkraut should be drained slightly to remove excess liquid before being added to the skillet.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2-3 medium apples that are washed, peeled, cored, and diced.
How long do I sauté the onions?
Sauté the sliced onions for about 5 minutes or until they become translucent.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius).
How long does the sauerkraut simmer on the stove?
The mixture should simmer on low heat uncovered for approximately 30 minutes.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
It can be vegetarian if you use butter instead of bacon drippings and vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
What role does brown sugar play in the recipe?
One teaspoon of brown sugar is added to provide a touch of sweetness that balances the fermented cabbage.
How long does the dish bake in the oven?
After simmering, the dish is baked in the oven for an additional 30 minutes.
What is the purpose of adding beef stock?
Beef stock or bouillon is used to ensure the sauerkraut mixture stays moist and flavorful during the cooking process.
Can I use celery seed in this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of celery seed is included as a seasoning to enhance the savory notes.
How should I serve Savory Apple-Infused Sauerkraut?
It is excellent as a side for sausages, roast meats, or as a flavorful topping for sandwiches.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
The recipe requires 8 ingredients: sauerkraut, onion, butter/bacon drippings, apples, white wine, beef stock, brown sugar, and celery seed.
Do I need to cover the skillet during the stove-top simmer?
No, the instructions specify to cook the mixture uncovered for the first 30-minute simmer.
Should the skillet be covered while in the oven?
Yes, cover the skillet before transferring it to the oven for the final 30 minutes of baking.
How much sauerkraut is required?
The recipe calls for 1 quart of drained sauerkraut.
What category of cuisine does this dish belong to?
This is a traditional German cuisine recipe.
How are the onions sliced for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 1/4 cup of sliced onions.
Can I use bouillon instead of stock?
Yes, the recipe suggests either beef stock or bouillon can be used for consistency.
Does the sauerkraut need to be washed?
The instructions only specify to drain the sauerkraut slightly, not to wash it.
When do I add the diced apples?
Add the diced apples after the sauerkraut and onions have cooked together for about 10 minutes.
Why is the sauerkraut cooked in the oven?
Baking in the oven allows the flavors to deepen and ensures the apples become soft.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to drain the sauerkraut slightly to remove excess liquid.
Can this be used as a sandwich topping?
Yes, it makes a flavorful topping for various types of sandwiches.
What is the recommended preparation for the apples?
Apples should be washed, peeled, cored, and then diced.
How much white wine is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 and a half cups of white wine.