What to Make with Sauerkraut: 17 Best Recipes

Are you a sauerkraut enthusiast looking for new and exciting ways to incorporate this tangy fermented cabbage into your meals? From classic dishes to unexpected combinations, these recipes are guaranteed to tickle your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

The Basics of Cooking with Sauerkraut

Selecting the Best Sauerkraut

When choosing sauerkraut, opt for high-quality, fermented cabbage. You can find it in jars or bags at your local store or make it at home. Look for sauerkraut that is free from additives or preservatives. The best choice is always fresh, raw sauerkraut containing live cultures. This ensures you get the most probiotics and nutrients for your gut health.

Enhancing the Flavour of Sauerkraut

To enhance the flavour of your sauerkraut, consider these tips:

• Rinse and drain it to reduce the tanginess. This can make the dish more palatable if you find the taste too strong.
• Heat sauerkraut gently to avoid destroying the live cultures, as extreme heat can kill the beneficial probiotics.
• Combine sauerkraut with other ingredients such as caraway seeds, garlic, or onions to add some depth of flavour.
• Mix sauerkraut with other vegetables or fruits like apples or bell peppers to introduce new flavours and textures.

Adding Nutrients and Probiotics

Sauerkraut is already a nutritional powerhouse, rich in fibre, vitamin C, and beneficial probiotics. However, there are ways to boost its health benefits even more:

• Incorporate sauerkraut in salads or wraps, where it can provide an extra serving of fibre and nutrients.
• Combine it with other fermented foods like kimchi, yoghurt, or pickles for a varied probiotic intake.
• Add protein-rich ingredients such as beans, lentils, or tofu to create a more balanced meal.

Keep these tips in mind when you’re working with sauerkraut, and you’ll be able to create delicious, nutritious dishes that support your gut health.

Sauerkraut in Main Dishes

Sauerkraut is a versatile and flavourful ingredient that can be added to various main dishes. In this section, we cover some delicious recipes that showcase sauerkraut’s tangy and unique flavour.

Sauerkraut and Pork Recipes

Pork and sauerkraut elevate each other’s flavours, making them a perfect culinary marriage. To enjoy this classic combination, try slow-cooking a juicy pork roast or chops with sauerkraut and apples for a hearty meal. If you’re pressed for time, pan-fry some pork cutlets and top them with a generous helping of sauerkraut.

Kielbasa (Polish Sausage) and Sauerkraut

Kielbasa, a delicious Polish sausage, pairs well with sauerkraut. Simply cook your kielbasa and sauerkraut together in a skillet, adding some sliced onions and a splash of beer for depth of flavour. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or steamed potatoes.

Reuben Sandwiches and Casseroles

The classic Reuben sandwich is an excellent way to enjoy sauerkraut. Layer your rye bread with corned beef, Swiss cheese, thousand island dressing, and sauerkraut for an unbeatable combination. Alternatively, you can make a Reuben casserole to feed a larger crowd by layering the sandwich ingredients in a baking dish and finishing it off with a breadcrumb topping before baking.

German Meatballs with Sauerkraut

German meatballs, or “Frikadellen,” are often served with sauerkraut. My favourite sauerkraut dish.

To make this dish, create a mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings. Shape them into round meatballs, pan-fry until golden brown, then simmer in sauerkraut with a touch of mustard for a tasty and satisfying main course.

Pierogies with Sauerkraut

Pierogies, Eastern European dumplings, can be filled with various ingredients, including sauerkraut. Fill your pierogi dough with a mixture of sauerkraut and mashed potatoes or sautéed mushrooms, then cook by boiling and pan-frying until golden brown. Enjoy them with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives.

These savoury dishes featuring sauerkraut will surely satisfy your taste buds and add a new dimension to your mealtime repertoire. Give one, or all, of these recipes a try and see just how versatile sauerkraut can be in your main dishes.

Side Dishes and Salads

Warm Potato Dishes with Sauerkraut

When it comes to warm potato dishes with sauerkraut, you have plenty of options to choose from.

One of the most popular is a comforting casserole made of layers of thinly sliced potatoes, sauerkraut, and onions, seasoned with caraway seeds and baked until tender. It’s a perfect side dish for a cold evening, and it tastes even better the next day. Don’t forget to try adding bacon for an extra savoury touch.

Sauerkraut Salad Recipes

Sauerkraut salads are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to your preferences. A simple option is to combine sauerkraut with your favourite mix of vegetables, such as shredded carrots, peppers, and tomatoes, for a refreshing and tangy twist. For a heartier salad, try adding protein, like chunks of cooked chicken or tuna. To pump up the flavours, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar and caraway seeds to your sauerkraut salad.

Bavarian Sauerkraut

Bavarian sauerkraut is a delicious side dish that adds a flavourful punch to your meal.

To make it, all you need to do is sauté some onions and apples in butter, then add sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and a touch of sugar. Simmer the mixture until the flavours meld, and then serve it alongside your favourite meat or sausages.

The sweet and tangy taste of the apples and sauerkraut will complement your main dish perfectly.

Hot German Potato Salad

Hot German potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with sauerkraut.

To prepare this dish, cook some diced potatoes until tender, then toss them with sliced onions, chopped bacon, and a warm dressing made from bacon drippings, vinegar, and sugar. Add in a generous scoop of sauerkraut and mix well until everything is coated. The combination of potatoes, bacon, and sauerkraut creates a comforting and flavourful side that you’ll want to make again and again.

Soups and Stews

Sauerkraut Soups

Sauerkraut soups are a delicious and warming way to incorporate sauerkraut into your meals.

To create a basic sauerkraut soup, you can start by sautéing onions and any other veggies you like.

Next, add the sauerkraut, some vegetable or meat stock, and seasonings of your choice.

Allow the soup to simmer until the flavours meld together, creating a comforting and healthy meal. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.

Sauerkraut and White Bean Soup

For a vegetarian-friendly option, try making sauerkraut and white bean soup.

• Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and other veggies like carrots and celery in a large soup pot. Next, add a can of white beans (drained and rinsed), your sauerkraut, some vegetable stock, and seasonings to taste.

• Allow the soup to simmer until the veggies are tender, then add in some egg noodles and cook until they’re al dente. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

These soups and stews are just a few ways to get creative with sauerkraut in your kitchen – experiment with different flavours and ingredients to discover your new favourite recipe!

Sauerkraut in Breakfast and Appetisers

Sauerkraut Breakfast Ideas

Adding sauerkraut to your breakfast is a brilliant way to kick-start your day on a healthy note.

Try mixing sauerkraut with scrambled eggs or layer it on a piece of avocado toast for a tangy and satisfying dish. You can even experiment with sausages and sauerkraut in a breakfast hash to provide a nutrient-rich and tasty morning meal.

Sauerkraut-stuffed Pierogies

Sauerkraut-stuffed pierogies are scrumptious dumplings filled with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes that make for a delightful appetiser or main dish.

To make them, first, prepare the dough and filling. For the filling, mix together sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, onions, and seasonings. Once the pierogies are assembled, cook them by boiling and then pan-frying until golden brown. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile enough to go well with your choice of dipping sauce or as a side to your main course.

Sauerkraut Appetiser Ideas

Incorporating sauerkraut into appetisers can add depth of flavour and introduce a unique twist to classic dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Serve sauerkraut with sliced smoked sausages, cheese, and crackers for a hearty platter.
• Layer sauerkraut onto toasted baguette slices and top with a dollop of cream cheese for a sophisticated canapé.
• Stir sauerkraut into your favourite dip for an added tang and depth of flavour.

These sauerkraut-inspired appetisers will impress your guests and have them asking for more. Remember to keep it brief and enjoy experimenting with nutritious and delicious sauerkraut dishes in your breakfast and appetisers.

Desserts and Unexpected Recipes

Surprisingly, sauerkraut can be an exceptional ingredient in a variety of desserts and unexpected recipes. Let’s explore some unique ways to incorporate sauerkraut into your cooking.

Sauerkraut Chocolate Cake

Yes, you read that correctly! This Sauerkraut Chocolate Cake makes use of sauerkraut to create a moist and flavourful dessert. The tanginess of the sauerkraut pairs well with the rich chocolate taste, and you wouldn’t even know it’s hidden inside the cake. Give it a try for an unusual yet delectable treat.

Sauerkraut Latkes

Sauerkraut is not just for mains; you can also incorporate it into snack recipes like Sauerkraut Latkes. Mixing sauerkraut with grated potatoes and onions, you can create a flavourful and crispy latke perfect for snacking or serving at a gathering. With their delightful crunch and savoury taste, sauerkraut latkes are sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Reuben Pizza

Taking inspiration from the classic Reuben sandwich, this Reuben Pizza recipe transforms the delicious combination of corned beef, swiss cheese, and sauerkraut into a mouth watering pizza. Simply top your pizza dough with these ingredients, bake, and enjoy a unique twist on a traditional favourite.

How long does Sauerkraut last once opened?

When you open a jar of sauerkraut, it’s essential to store it correctly to ensure it remains fresh and delicious. In general, opened sauerkraut can last three to four months in the refrigerator as long as you follow proper storage guidelines.

To maintain the quality of your sauerkraut, always use clean utensils to extract it from the container. This will prevent bacteria from contaminating the remaining sauerkraut. Additionally, keeping the sauerkraut submerged in its liquid (brine) helps prolong its shelf life and keep it tasting its best.

When storing your opened sauerkraut, be sure to:

• Transfer it to an airtight container or ensure the original jar is tightly closed.
• Keep the sauerkraut refrigerated at a temperature below 4°C.

By following these simple steps, you’ll find that your sauerkraut remains flavourful and safe to eat. However, always trust your senses. If you notice an off smell or mould, it’s best to discard the sauerkraut and purchase a fresh batch.