Ham With Apple-Kraut
A hearty dish featuring smoked ham and tangy sauerkraut, complemented by sweet apples and aromatic thyme, perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add rinsed and drained sauerkraut to the skillet; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in grated apples, apple juice, white wine, and dried thyme; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat the smoked ham slices in a separate pan or oven until warmed through.
- Serve the ham slices topped with the apple-kraut mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, substitute the smoked ham with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider using honeycrisp apples instead of regular ones. You can also add a dash of cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth. Pairing this dish with a side of mashed potatoes or some crusty bread complements the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine, enhancing the flavors of the dish. For a complete feast, consider adding sides like mashed potatoes or cornbread, which can help soak up the delicious apple-kraut sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the ham from becoming tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham With Apple-Kraut contains roughly 1402 calories, with 15g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1056mg per serving (46% 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 use fresh sauerkraut instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh sauerkraut can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Just make sure to rinse it well before adding to remove excess salt. You may want to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it melds well with the other ingredients.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
For this recipe, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Fuji work well. The tartness balances the richness of the ham and the sauerkraut, while sweeter apples can add a nice contrast of flavors. Feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple-kraut mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up before serving with the ham. This can save you time and allows the flavors to meld together even more, making the dish even tastier.
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).