Kraut Supreme
Kraut Supreme is a savory baked dish combining tangy sauerkraut, sweet tomatoes, and crispy bacon, perfect for hearty family dinners or nostalgic comfort food. Its rich flavors appeal to those who enjoy bold, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the drained Bavarian kraut, sugar, and stewed tomatoes in a baking dish.
- Top the mixture with crumbled fried bacon slices.
- Add a little melted bacon grease over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar along with the sugar. If you prefer a smoky taste, use smoked bacon instead of regular. To reduce the sugar, try using a sugar substitute or honey, adjusting to taste. Be sure to drain the kraut well to avoid excess liquid; this helps achieve a better texture. For a twist, add some chopped onions or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with hearty main courses, such as pork chops or grilled sausages, making it a perfect side for American recipes. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, consider offering it with a side of baked beans, such as Fast And Easy Baked Beans, for additional variety.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Kraut Supreme can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating to maintain the dish's flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kraut Supreme contains roughly 123 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, you can use fresh sauerkraut, but you'll need to adjust the seasoning since it might not be as sweet as Bavarian kraut. Drain and rinse fresh sauerkraut before mixing with the other ingredients to balance the flavors. You might want to reduce the sugar slightly to accommodate the natural tang of fresh kraut.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon entirely or replace it with a plant-based bacon alternative for a vegetarian version. To maintain the smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the mixture. This will help replicate the rich taste without using meat, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Kraut Supreme a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and store them in the baking dish covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This allows for even cooking and better flavor development.
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).