Weinkraut
Weinkraut Recipe - Traditional German Vegetarian Dish
Introduction
Weinkraut is a traditional German dish made with sauerkraut, apples, white wine, and bacon drippings. This flavorful and tangy dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering.
History
Weinkraut has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries. The combination of sauerkraut and apples creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that has stood the test of time.
Ingredients
- 1 qt (946 ml) sauerkraut
- 0.25 cup sliced onion
- 2 tbsp butter or bacon drippings
- 2 or 3 medium-sized apples
- 1.5 cups white wine
- 0.5 cup beef stock or bouillon
- 1 tsp brown sugar
How to prepare
- Drain the sauerkraut slightly.
- Cook the onion in butter or drippings until transparent.
- Add the sauerkraut and stir; cook slowly.
- Wash, peel, and core the apples; dice the fruit and add it to the sauerkraut.
- Add the wine and enough stock or bouillon to cover.
- Cook slowly, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- Add the sugar and celery seeds; cover and finish cooking in a moderate 325° oven for 30 minutes longer.
Variations
- Add caraway seeds for a more traditional German flavor.
- Substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil for a lighter version of the dish.
- Add cooked sausage or bratwurst to make it a heartier meal.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to drain the sauerkraut slightly before cooking to remove excess liquid.
- Cooking the onions in bacon drippings adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.
- Cooking the Weinkraut slowly allows the flavors to meld together and develop a deep, complex taste.
Serving Suggestions
Weinkraut can be served as a side dish with roasted pork, sausages, or grilled chicken. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Cooking Techniques
Slow cooking the Weinkraut allows the flavors to develop and intensify.
- Baking the dish in the oven at a low temperature ensures that the sauerkraut and apples are tender and flavorful.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use vegetable broth instead of bouillon for a vegetarian version of the dish.
- Substitute red wine for white wine for a richer flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Weinkraut 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 Weinkraut in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh parsley or chives. Pair it with a glass of Riesling or a cold beer for a complete meal.
Pairing Recommendations
Weinkraut pairs well with a variety of meats such as pork, chicken, or sausages. It also goes well with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 160 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 23g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 6g per serving
Saturated Fat: 2g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 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
Weinkraut is a low-calorie dish that is rich in Vitamin C and Iron. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Summary
Weinkraut is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. With its tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and savory bacon drippings, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this traditional German recipe and savor the flavors of the season.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting my friend Helga, who was known for her delicious German dishes. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of sauerkraut and wine filled the air.
"Ah, you must try my Weinkraut," Helga exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."
I watched as Helga deftly chopped onions and garlic, adding them to a large pot along with sauerkraut, white wine, caraway seeds, and a touch of sugar. She let the mixture simmer on the stove, stirring occasionally and adding more wine as needed.
As the Weinkraut cooked, Helga regaled me with stories of her grandmother, who had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl. She spoke of how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, creating hearty and comforting dishes that brought the family together.
I couldn't wait to taste the Weinkraut, and when it was finally ready, Helga served it up in a large bowl with a side of crusty bread. The combination of flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted – tangy from the sauerkraut, sweet from the wine, and aromatic from the caraway seeds.
I savored each bite, feeling warmth spreading through my body. It was the kind of meal that made you feel like you were wrapped in a hug, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
Over the next few weeks, I visited Helga often, watching and helping as she made Weinkraut again and again. I took careful notes, asking questions and making sure I understood each step of the process.
One day, Helga surprised me by handing me a handwritten recipe card for Weinkraut. "It's time for you to make it on your own," she said with a smile.
I was nervous at first, but as I gathered the ingredients and began cooking, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The familiar smells of sauerkraut and wine filled my kitchen, transporting me back to Helga's cozy home.
As the Weinkraut simmered on the stove, I thought of my own grandmother, who had always been my inspiration in the kitchen. She had taught me the importance of cooking with love and sharing meals with those you care about.
When the Weinkraut was finally ready, I served it up with a side of crusty bread, just like Helga had done. I watched as my family members took their first bites, their faces lighting up with delight.
"This tastes just like Helga's!" my daughter exclaimed, reaching for a second helping.
I smiled, feeling a sense of pride wash over me. I had successfully recreated a beloved family recipe, one that would now be passed down through the generations.
As I sat at the table, surrounded by my loved ones, I realized that food has a way of bringing people together, of creating memories that last a lifetime. And I knew that this recipe for Weinkraut would always hold a special place in my heart.
Categories
| Apple Recipes | Bacon Recipes | Beef Stock And Broth Recipes | Brown Sugar Recipes | Celery Seed Recipes | German Recipes | German Vegetarian | Sauerkraut Recipes | White Wine Recipes |