Blue Kraut Deluxe
Blue Kraut Deluxe offers a vibrant twist on traditional cabbage dishes, combining sweet jelly, smoky bacon, and tender apple for a flavorful, colorful side perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and drain the red cabbage, then cut into quarters.
- Discard the core and tough ribs, then shred the cabbage.
- Fry the minced bacon in a large skillet until browned.
- Add the sugar to the hot bacon fat and saute slowly until golden.
- Add the chopped apple and onion to the skillet.
- Cover and braise over very low heat for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Place the shredded cabbage in the skillet or Dutch oven with a cover.
- Slowly pour the raspberry or currant jelly and vinegar over the kraut and stir to mix well.
- Cover and braise slowly for 10 minutes.
- Add water, cover, and let simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until the cabbage is fork-tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar along with the jelly. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with olive oil and smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. Additionally, using green apples can add a nice tartness that complements the sweetness of the jelly. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Blue Kraut Deluxe pairs beautifully with Pork And Scalloped Potatoes or as a side dish alongside roasted meats. It can also be served as a tangy topping for sandwiches or burgers. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a grain salad or alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blue Kraut Deluxe contains roughly 106 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
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 Blue Kraut Deluxe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors improve as it sits. Just refrigerate it after cooking and reheat when ready to serve. It's a great make-ahead option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
What if I don’t have raspberry or currant jelly?
If you don’t have raspberry or currant jelly, you can substitute it with apple jelly or even a homemade fruit preserve. The key is to maintain a balance of sweetness and acidity, so taste and adjust as needed.
Can I use green cabbage instead of red cabbage?
While red cabbage is traditional for this recipe, you can use green cabbage as a substitute. The flavor will be milder, and the color will be different, but it will still result in a delicious dish. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for tenderness.
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).