Old World Sauerkraut Supper

Prep: 15 min Cook: 240 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Eastern European

A hearty and comforting Old World sauerkraut supper featuring smoky bacon, tender potatoes, sweet apples, and flavorful Polish sausage, ideal for cozy family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 3 strips bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 quart sauerkraut
  • 1 apple, cubed
  • 4 potatoes, cubed
  • 2 pounds Polish sausage, cut into 2-inch pieces

Instructions

  1. Place the bacon, sauerkraut, apple, potatoes, and Polish sausage into the crock-pot.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon. You can substitute the Polish sausage with kielbasa or any other smoked sausage you prefer. If you want a vegetarian version, replace the bacon and sausage with mushrooms and a plant-based sausage alternative. Adding a teaspoon of caraway seeds can enhance the sauerkraut's flavor, making it even more authentic.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty dish with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. For a fresh contrast, a simple green salad or steamed vegetables can lighten the plate. It pairs beautifully with Cuban Style Black Beans for a delightful combination of flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old World Sauerkraut Supper contains roughly 221 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1261mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).

221 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.4g 13% DV
Total Fat 9.1g 12% DV
Carbs 29.7g 11% DV
Fiber 5.2g 18% DV
Sugar 18g 36% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1261.4mg 55% DV
Potassium 603.2mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 16.9mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.5mcg
Vitamin C 84.9mg 94% DV
Calcium 61.7mg 5% DV
Iron 2.9mg 16% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

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 this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Simply add them to the crock-pot in the morning and cook as directed. This makes for a convenient meal that’s ready when you get home.

What can I use instead of sauerkraut?

If you're not a fan of sauerkraut, you can use coleslaw mix combined with a little vinegar for tang. Alternatively, try using pickled cabbage for a similar sour flavor. However, this will alter the dish's traditional taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider including sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes. Additionally, you can opt for a spicy sausage variety or serve the dish with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a kick.

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).

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