Ingredients
- 1 jar (about 32 ounces) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 5 juniper berries (optional)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for added richness)
How To Make Bavarian Sauerkraut
Step 1: Prepare Sauerkraut:
- Drain the sauerkraut and rinse it under cold water. Squeeze out excess liquid.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced apple to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the apple begins to soften.
Step 3: Add Sauerkraut:
- Add the rinsed sauerkraut to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and apples.
Step 4: Seasoning:
- Pour in the dry white wine and add the bay leaf, juniper berries (if using), caraway seeds, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.
Step 5: Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the sauerkraut is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Step 6: Finish with Butter (Optional):
- If desired, stir in unsalted butter at the end for added richness. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and juniper berries before serving. Serve the Bavarian sauerkraut hot as a side dish to complement various German dishes.
Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, you can use bacon fat instead of vegetable oil.
- Experiment with the level of sweetness by adjusting the amount of sugar to your liking.
- Juniper berries add a distinctive flavor, but they are optional and can be omitted if not available.
- This sauerkraut dish pairs well with sausages, pork chops, or any traditional Bavarian meal.
Enjoy the rich, tangy flavors of Bavarian sauerkraut as a delightful side dish that brings a taste of Germany to your table!
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