Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut

Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut Recipe - Traditional Dish from Latvia

Region / culture: Latvia | Servings: 6

Introduction

Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut is a traditional dish that combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the sweetness of apples and sugar. This dish is a popular side dish in Latvia and is often served during holidays and special occasions.

History

The recipe for Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut has been passed down through generations in Latvia. It is a dish that is often made during the winter months when fresh produce is scarce. The combination of sauerkraut, apples, and sugar creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and tangy.

Ingredients

1 (28 oz (794 g)) jar of wine-cured sauerkraut
2 diced apples or 0.5 cup of applesauce
1 bay leaf
1 onion, finely chopped (optional)
0.5 tsp of caraway seeds
1 pinch of black pepper
3-4 tbsp of brown sugar or demerara sugar
3 1 tbsp of lard or bacon drippings

How to prepare

1. If the sauerkraut is too salty, drain it. Otherwise, use it with its own liquid.
2. Heat the lard in a large saucepan.
3. Take a handful of sauerkraut and squeeze it dry.
4. Put the squeezed sauerkraut in the hot lard and fry it until it has brown edges.
5. Add the sauerkraut, apples, bay leaf, onion (if using), caraway seeds, and 2 tbsp of brown sugar.
6. Add enough water to just barely cover the sauerkraut.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
8. Gradually add more sugar, if needed, while the sauerkraut is cooking. Taste often.
9. The sauerkraut should have a pleasant sweet-sour taste, but not be overly sweet.

Variations

Add chopped bacon or smoked sausage for added flavor.
Substitute the apples with pears for a different twist.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tanginess.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the sauerkraut if it is too salty before using it in the recipe.

- Squeezing the sauerkraut dry before frying it in lard helps to remove excess moisture and enhances the flavor.

- Taste the sauerkraut mixture often while it is cooking and adjust the sugar levels to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut can be served as a side dish with roasted meats, grilled sausages, or mashed potatoes. It pairs well with hearty dishes and adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the sauerkraut in lard helps to enhance the flavor and create a crispy texture.

- Simmering the sauerkraut mixture slowly allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable oil instead of bacon drippings for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute white sugar for demerara sugar if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of caraway seeds. The vibrant colors of the sauerkraut and apples make for an attractive side dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut with roasted pork, grilled chicken, or sausages. It also pairs well with mashed potatoes, rye bread, and pickles for a traditional Latvian meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

150 per serving

Carbohydrates

23g per serving

Fats

5g per serving

Proteins

2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 20% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 6% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut is a low-calorie dish that is rich in Vitamin C and Iron. It is a good source of carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying side dish.

Summary

Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut is a delicious and comforting side dish that combines the flavors of sauerkraut, apples, and sugar. This traditional Latvian dish is easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this unique recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was given to me by a dear friend who had recently traveled to Latvia and had fallen in love with their cuisine. She raved about the Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut she had tried there and was determined to recreate it at home. And luckily for me, she was kind enough to share the recipe with me.

I remember sitting at my kitchen table, carefully reading over the ingredients and instructions. The combination of tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and savory bacon sounded like a flavor explosion just waiting to happen. I could already imagine the aroma of the dish wafting through my kitchen, enticing everyone who walked through the door.

I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients, making a trip to the local market to ensure I had the freshest produce and highest quality bacon. As I chopped the apples and cooked the bacon, the kitchen filled with the most tantalizing scents. I could hardly wait to see how it all came together.

Once everything was simmering in the pot, I took a moment to sit back and reflect on the journey that had led me to this moment. I thought about all the recipes I had collected over the years, each one a cherished memory of a moment shared with a friend or loved one. And now, this Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut recipe was about to become a new addition to that collection.

As the sauerkraut bubbled away on the stove, I couldn't help but think about the long history of this dish. Sauerkraut has been a staple in Eastern European cuisine for centuries, its tangy flavor and probiotic properties prized for their health benefits. And here I was, about to put my own spin on it with the addition of apples and bacon.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I lifted the lid of the pot and was met with the most incredible aroma. The sauerkraut had turned a beautiful golden color, the apples soft and caramelized, and the bacon crispy and salty. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

I served myself a generous portion of the Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut, taking care to get a little bit of everything on my fork. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to the rolling hills of Latvia, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a bustling market. The flavors were a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, each bite a symphony of tastes and textures.

I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the friends who had shared this recipe with me and the memories it had brought to life. Cooking has always been a form of expression for me, a way to show love and care for those around me. And with every bite of this Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut, I knew that tradition would continue for generations to come.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and delicious dish to warm your soul, look no further than this Sweet Latvian Sauerkraut recipe. It may have originated in a far-off land, but it has found a home in my heart and kitchen, ready to be shared with all who come through my door.