Amana Sauerbraten

Prep: 480 min Cuisine: German

A tangy, flavorful German-style pot roast marinated in vinegar and spices, perfect for hearty meals and special occasions, appealing to lovers of robust flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. top round roast
  • 1 c. cider vinegar
  • 2 1/4 c. water
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. whole black peppercorns
  • 1/2 tsp. whole cloves
  • 2 c. water
  • 1/2 c. flour
  • 1/3 c. sugar

Instructions

  1. Place the top round roast in a stock pot of roughly the same size.
  2. In another pan, combine vinegar, water, lemon, onion, bay leaves, salt, peppercorns, and cloves. Bring to a boil.
  3. Pour the boiling mixture over the roast, then cool and refrigerate for 3 days, basting and turning often.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more flavorful Sauerbraten, consider marinating the roast for up to five days. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the cider vinegar if needed. If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more flour when thickening. Whole spices like peppercorns and cloves can be replaced with ground versions, but reduce the amounts used. Remember to strain the marinade before using it to avoid a gritty texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sauerbraten with traditional sides like red cabbage and potato dumplings for a classic experience. It also pairs beautifully with Raspberry-Orange Sauce for a sweet contrast. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for added color. This dish can be accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meat in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, adding a splash of the marinade to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water for moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Amana Sauerbraten contains roughly 1221 calories, with 105g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (210% of the Daily Value), iron (133% of the Daily Value), and potassium (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

1221 kcal 61% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 104.9g 100% DV
Total Fat 39g 50% DV
Carbs 114g 41% DV
Fiber 6.9g 25% DV
Sugar 8.4g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 4459.1mg 95% DV
Cholesterol 255mg 85% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 27.8mg 31% DV
Calcium 182.6mg 14% DV
Iron 24mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of meat for Sauerbraten?

Yes, while top round roast is traditional, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. These cuts will also become tender with marinating and slow cooking, enhancing the dish's flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of Sauerbraten?

While traditional Sauerbraten is made with beef, you can create a vegetarian version using a hearty vegetable like portobello mushrooms or seitan. Marinate them in a similar vinegar-based marinade to mimic the flavors of the original recipe.

How can I make the sauce richer?

To achieve a richer sauce, after removing the roast, you can deglaze the pot with red wine or beef broth. This will help lift the browned bits from the bottom, creating a deeper flavor. Adding a tablespoon of tomato paste can also enhance the richness.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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