Blaukraut(German)
A hearty German-style sauerkraut dish featuring cabbage, apples, and a tangy vinegar flavor, perfect for comforting meals with a balance of sweetness and acidity.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the cabbage core and shred the cabbage finely.
- Saute chopped onion in Crisco until translucent.
- Add shredded cabbage, chopped apples, salt, red wine vinegar, and sugar to the onion.
- Add water or beef broth to the mixture.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook over medium heat, adding more liquid if needed to prevent sticking.
- Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a few cloves of crushed garlic or a bay leaf during cooking. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try using a sweeter variety of apples. You can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially toward the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Blaukraut pairs beautifully with roasted meats, especially pork or duck, making it a great side for holiday meals. It can also complement dishes like Thelma Ellison's Norwegian Meatballs or serve as a tangy topping for sandwiches. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Blaukraut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blaukraut(German) contains roughly 145 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1540mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
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 make Blaukraut ahead of time?
Yes, Blaukraut can be made in advance. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving. It's perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal for Blaukraut, as they provide a nice balance of flavor. Avoid overly sweet apples, as they may alter the dish's intended taste.
Is it necessary to use red wine vinegar?
While red wine vinegar is traditional and adds depth, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if needed. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may shift slightly.
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).