Applesauce Sauerkraut

Applesauce Sauerkraut Recipe - Traditional German Dish

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Applesauce Sauerkraut is a delightful dish that combines the tangy taste of sauerkraut with the sweet and comforting flavor of applesauce. This recipe brings together pork chops, tart cooking apples, and sauerkraut, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that is both unique and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to please both sauerkraut lovers and those new to its distinct taste.

History

The origins of Applesauce Sauerkraut can be traced back to Eastern European and German cuisine, where sauerkraut is a staple ingredient. The combination of pork, apples, and sauerkraut is a classic trio in many traditional recipes from these regions. This particular recipe has evolved over time, incorporating the sweetness of applesauce to balance the sourness of the sauerkraut, making it a beloved dish in many households.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) sauerkraut
1 lb (454 g) pork chops
3 to 4 tart cooking apples, thickly sliced
0.5 cup packed brown sugar
0.75 tsp salt
0.13 tsp pepper
0.5 tsp caraway seeds
0.75 cup apple juice

How to prepare

Rinse the sauerkraut and squeeze it dry.
Place half of the sauerkraut in a slow cooker.
Add the pork chops to the slow cooker.
Continue layering in the slow cooker with sliced apples, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and caraway seeds.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or until the apples are tender.
Stir before serving.
Serves 4.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the pork chops with mushrooms or tofu. You can also add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips to the slow cooker for additional flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, rinse the sauerkraut thoroughly before squeezing it dry. This removes excess brine and makes the sauerkraut less overpowering. When layering the ingredients in the slow cooker, make sure to distribute them evenly for consistent cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Applesauce Sauerkraut can be served on its own or with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures that the pork chops are tender and juicy. If you don't have a slow cooker, this dish can also be prepared in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over low heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have apple juice on hand, you can use white wine or chicken broth as a substitute. For a sugar-free option, replace the brown sugar with a sweetener of your choice, adjusting the amount to taste.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious when reheated.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Applesauce Sauerkraut in a deep dish or bowl to showcase the layers of sauerkraut, pork chops, and apples. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light-bodied white wine, such as Riesling or Gewürztraminer, pairs beautifully with the sweet and sour flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, apple cider complements the apple notes perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Applesauce Sauerkraut contains approximately 250-300 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option that is filling and nutritious.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the apples and brown sugar. A serving of Applesauce Sauerkraut contains approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates. The exact amount may vary depending on the type and size of the apples used.

Fats

Pork chops contribute to the fat content in this recipe. A serving of Applesauce Sauerkraut contains about 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the cut of the pork chops. Using leaner cuts can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Pork chops are an excellent source of protein. Each serving of this dish provides roughly 20-25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building option for a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Applesauce Sauerkraut is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the apples and sauerkraut. Apples are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, while sauerkraut is rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and iron. This dish also provides a modest amount of potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific dietary restrictions should check the labels of the ingredients used, especially the sauerkraut, for any potential allergens.

Summary

Applesauce Sauerkraut is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is relatively low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

Applesauce Sauerkraut is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the best of sweet and sour tastes. With its rich nutritional profile and versatile serving options, it's a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether you're a fan of sauerkraut or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Applesauce Sauerkraut. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the countryside. My grandmother, who was a wonderful cook, had passed down many of her favorite recipes to me, but this one was new and intriguing.

I was visiting a friend's house one day, and as we were chatting in the kitchen, I noticed a jar of what looked like applesauce on the counter. Curious, I asked my friend what it was, and she explained that it was actually a unique recipe for Applesauce Sauerkraut.

She went on to tell me that her grandmother had passed it down to her, and it was a family favorite. Intrigued, I asked her for the recipe, and she happily shared it with me. I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.

The next day, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. The recipe called for a combination of apples, cabbage, and spices, all cooked together to create a sweet and tangy side dish. It was a simple recipe, but the flavors were complex and delicious.

As the aroma of the cooking apples and cabbage filled my kitchen, I couldn't help but think of all the other recipes I had learned over the years. My grandmother had taught me so much about cooking, and I was grateful for her wisdom and guidance.

I remembered the first time she had shown me how to make her famous apple pie, with its flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, and I felt honored to be able to carry on the tradition.

I also thought of the time she had taught me how to make her hearty beef stew, with tender chunks of meat and savory vegetables simmering in a rich broth. It was a comforting dish that always brought back memories of cozy family dinners around the table.

But this recipe for Applesauce Sauerkraut was different. It was a unique combination of sweet and sour flavors that I had never tasted before. As I stirred the pot, I thought about all the different influences that had come together to create this dish.

I imagined my friend's grandmother, carefully measuring out the ingredients and stirring the pot with love and care. I pictured her passing down the recipe to her daughter, who then passed it on to my friend. And now, here I was, carrying on the tradition and making it my own.

As the dish finished cooking, I couldn't wait to taste it. I spooned a generous serving onto a plate and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, with the sweetness of the apples balancing perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut. It was a delicious and satisfying dish that I knew would become a favorite in my own family.

From that day on, I made Applesauce Sauerkraut regularly, sharing it with friends and family who all raved about its unique and delicious flavors. It became a staple at our holiday dinners, alongside my grandmother's apple pie and beef stew.

As I grew older and had children of my own, I passed the recipe down to them, just as my grandmother had done for me. I taught them how to make Applesauce Sauerkraut, sharing with them the story of how I had stumbled upon the recipe and the memories it brought back of my own childhood.

And now, as I look back on those days in my grandmother's kitchen, learning her recipes and soaking up her wisdom, I realize how much of an impact she had on my love of cooking. She taught me not just how to follow a recipe, but how to create something special and meaningful with each dish I made.

I am grateful for her guidance and inspiration, and I will always cherish the memories of those days spent cooking together in her kitchen. And as I continue to pass down her recipes to future generations, I know that her legacy will live on in every bite of food we savor and every story we share around the table.