Savory Sauerkraut & Smoked Sausage Harmony
Looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that perfectly balances savory flavors with a touch of sweetness? This robust crock pot meal combines the tanginess of vinegar-pickled sauerkraut with the heartiness of smoked sausage, complemented by crispy bacon, tender apples, and a hint of cider. Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings, it can be prepared ahead of time and left to cook slowly, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. Each bite is a delightful experience that promises to satisfy and warm the hearts of all your guests—definitely a comforting dish that brings people together!
16-18 servings
Servings
322
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vinegar-pickled sauerkraut
1 quart (drained and rinsed well)
Bacon
1/2 lb (cut into small pieces)
Granny Smith apple
1 (cored and cubed)
Ripe pear or additional apple
1 (cored and cubed (if using pear))
Onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
Celery
2 stalks (chopped)
Smoked sausage
3 lbs (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Butter
2 tablespoons (none)
Flour
3 tablespoons (none)
Dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons (none)
Minced garlic
1 tablespoon (none)
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (none)
Hard alcoholic cider
12 ounces (none)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Drain the sauerkraut in a colander and rinse it well under cool water. Allow it to drain for 5 to 10 minutes, repeating the rinsing process at least once to remove excess salt.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, cut bacon into small pieces and cook until crisp. Once done, remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
3
While the bacon cooks, core and cube the apples and pears (if using), chop the onion, celery, and slice the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch pieces.
4
Add olive oil and butter to the bacon drippings in the skillet, allowing the butter to melt. Gradually sprinkle the flour into the mixture while continuously stirring until it reaches a golden, bubbly consistency.
5
Incorporate the brown sugar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard into the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6
Gradually add the hard cider, mixing well. Continue cooking while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
7
Combine all prepared ingredients—drained sauerkraut, chopped fruits and vegetables, crispy bacon, and smoked sausage—in a large crock pot (or divide into two smaller ones). Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir gently to combine.
8
Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together.
9
Serve warm and enjoy this delightful dish with your friends and family!
Nutrition Information
18g
Fat
30g
Carbs
12g
Protein
2g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Sauerkraut & Smoked Sausage Harmony?
It is a robust crock pot meal that balances the tanginess of vinegar-pickled sauerkraut with hearty smoked sausage, crispy bacon, tender apples, and a hint of cider.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve a large crowd, typically providing between 16 and 18 servings.
Why should I rinse the sauerkraut?
Rinsing the sauerkraut under cool water and allowing it to drain helps remove excess salt and balances the overall tanginess of the dish.
How long does this dish take to cook in a slow cooker?
You can cook it on high for 4 hours or on a low setting for 6 to 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
What type of sausage should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 lbs of smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces.
Can I use something other than Granny Smith apples?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, you can use other firm apples or even an additional pear.
Do I need to cook the bacon before adding it to the crock pot?
Yes, you should cook the bacon until crisp in a skillet first and then set it aside to be combined later.
What role does hard cider play in this recipe?
Hard alcoholic cider is used to create a flavorful sauce that thickens as it cooks, adding a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! Its large yield and ability to stay warm in a crock pot make it an ideal choice for potlucks and family gatherings.
How do I thicken the sauce?
The sauce is thickened by creating a roux with butter, olive oil, and flour in the bacon drippings before adding the cider.
Can I substitute the dark brown sugar?
You can use light brown sugar or a honey substitute, though dark brown sugar provides a richer molasses flavor.
What type of mustard is recommended?
The recipe specifically recommends 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard for its sharp, tangy flavor.
Is this dish considered German cuisine?
Yes, the combination of sauerkraut, sausage, and apples is a classic profile found in German-inspired cooking.
Can I use a smaller crock pot?
Because this recipe makes a large amount, you may need to divide the ingredients into two smaller crock pots if you do not have one large one.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 322 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 18 grams of fat per serving in this dish.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, each serving provides about 2 grams of dietary fiber.
How much protein does it provide?
Each serving contains 12 grams of protein.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and the sauce ahead of time, then combine them in the crock pot when you are ready to start the slow cooking process.
What vegetables are included?
The dish includes chopped onion and two stalks of celery.
Do I need to peel the apples and pears?
The recipe suggests coring and cubing them; peeling is optional based on your preference for texture.
Can I use non-alcoholic cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider or apple juice if you prefer not to use alcoholic hard cider.
Should I add salt and pepper?
Yes, season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste while it is simmering in the skillet.
How do I prepare the garlic?
You should use 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, added to the skillet until fragrant.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Does the sauerkraut need to be vinegar-pickled?
The recipe specifically calls for vinegar-pickled sauerkraut for that specific tangy flavor profile.
How do I serve this dish?
Serve it warm directly from the crock pot. It pairs well with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
How much flour is needed for the sauce?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of flour to help thicken the cider-based sauce.
Can I add other spices?
While the recipe is flavorful as is, some people enjoy adding caraway seeds or bay leaves for additional traditional flavor.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish features tender fruits and vegetables, succulent sausage, and a slightly thickened, savory-sweet sauce.