Microwave Savory Ribs And Sauerkraut
A hearty microwave casserole combining tender pork ribs with tangy sauerkraut, seasoned with paprika and caraway seed for a savory, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart casserole, cook chopped onion, green pepper, and oil (covered) on High, stirring once.
- Add paprika and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in undrained sauerkraut, tomato sauce, brown sugar, bouillon, and caraway seed.
- Tuck in pork chops or country ribs into the mixture.
- Cook, covered, on High for 35 to 40 minutes or until the meat is fork-tender, turning ribs over and rearranging after 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mixture of the tomato sauce and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you're out of caraway seeds, fennel seeds can be a good substitute. You can also replace the pork with chicken for a lighter option, which pairs nicely with the sauerkraut's tangy profile. This dish is an easy one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the savory ribs and sauerkraut with crusty bread or over a bed of steamed potatoes for a hearty meal. A side of toasted herb rice complements the flavors well. For a refreshing contrast, pair with a simple green salad. This dish also makes a satisfying filling for sandwiches the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave on medium power, covered, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Savory Ribs And Sauerkraut contains roughly 775 calories, with 27g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (314% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (158% of the Daily Value), and iron (151% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% 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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pork with chicken or beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may cook faster. For chicken recipes, consider using chicken thighs for added moisture and flavor.
Is it necessary to use bouillon in this recipe?
While bouillon adds depth of flavor, you can omit it if you prefer. Alternatively, you can use homemade chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute, enhancing the dish's overall taste without the bouillon.
What can I serve with ribs and sauerkraut?
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can balance the richness of the ribs. You can also serve it alongside some holiday onions for a sweet contrast.
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).