Pork With Sauerkraut For Sunday Dinner

Prep: 15 min Cook: 180 min Cuisine: Eastern European

A hearty Sunday dinner featuring tender pork simmered with tangy sauerkraut and cabbage, perfect for those who enjoy comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meals.

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Ingredients

  • 2 large cans sauerkraut
  • 1 medium head cabbage, shredded
  • 3 to 4 lb. pork (butt end or loin)
  • 1/2 c. water
  • 1/2 c. brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine sauerkraut, shredded cabbage, and water in a large pot.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Make a well in the center and place the pork in.
  4. Simmer with the lid on, stirring occasionally, for approximately 3 hours.
  5. About 30 minutes before finished, add knockwurst if desired.
  6. Pork is done when cooked through and easily breaks apart with a fork.
  7. Add brown sugar if the sauerkraut tastes too sour.
  8. Serve with mashed potatoes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider browning the pork in a skillet before adding it to the pot. If you prefer a less sour sauerkraut, feel free to rinse it before cooking. You can also substitute the pork with chicken thighs for a lighter option. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, which can help balance the tanginess of the sauerkraut.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty dish alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a side of steamed green beans for a complete meal. A crisp salad or roasted vegetables can also complement the flavors nicely. For a unique twist, consider pairing it with Beer Rocks, a delicious way to enjoy more pork recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork and sauerkraut in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Heat until warmed through, or for best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pork With Sauerkraut For Sunday Dinner contains roughly 869 calories, with 0g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 75g fat.

869 kcal 43% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.4g 1% DV
Total Fat 74.7g 96% DV
Carbs 50.3g 18% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 49g 98% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 233.1mg 10% DV
Potassium 128.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 72.8mg 24% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 4.4mg 5% DV
Calcium 53.8mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV

* % 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; just adjust the cooking time as needed. Fresh sauerkraut may require a bit more water and a longer simmer to soften. Taste at intervals to ensure you achieve the desired flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar and a bit of molasses to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, maple syrup or honey can work as natural sweeteners, though they may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the pork is done cooking?

The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and can be easily pulled apart with a fork. Cooking times may vary based on the size of the pork piece, so it's helpful to check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.

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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