Old Berliner Frankfurter Skillet
A hearty German-inspired skillet dish featuring tender cabbage, savory frankfurters, and smoky bacon, balanced with tangy vinegar and spices, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, fry chopped bacon over medium heat for five minutes until crispy.
- Add minced onion to the skillet and cook until tender.
- Pour in chicken broth, then add cider vinegar, brown sugar, pickling spice, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add shredded cabbage, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slash frankfurters crosswise six or seven times about 1/4 inch deep.
- Place the frankfurters over the cooked cabbage in the skillet.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the frankfurters are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, use smoked bacon. If you're out of brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can work as substitutes. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. If you prefer a bit more tang, increase the cider vinegar slightly. This dish also pairs beautifully with Sauerkraut A La Russe for a traditional touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Old Berliner Frankfurter Skillet with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. A side of applesauce adds a nice sweetness that complements the dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or some roasted potatoes for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Berliner Frankfurter Skillet contains roughly 214 calories, with 6g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2116mg per serving (92% 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 a different type of sausage instead of frankfurters?
Yes, you can substitute frankfurters with other types of sausages like bratwurst or kielbasa. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different sausages may require more or less time to heat through.
Is it necessary to cover the skillet while cooking?
Covering the skillet helps trap steam, which softens the cabbage and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture or want to reduce the liquid, you can leave it uncovered during the last few minutes of cooking.
What can I do with the leftovers?
Leftover Old Berliner Frankfurter Skillet can be repurposed into a hearty soup or mixed with pasta for a filling casserole. You could also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or serve it over rice for a quick, satisfying meal.
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).