Sauerbraten(Quick And Easy)

Cook: 210 min Cuisine: German

A hearty and flavorful German-inspired dish featuring tender beef or venison simmered in a tangy ketchup and vinegar-based gravy, perfect for comforting family meals and gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 to 4 lb beef or venison
  • 32 oz ketchup
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 3 onions
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • salt
  • 2 tablespoons whole allspice
  • 4 bay leaves

Instructions

  1. Sprinkle the meat with salt and pepper.
  2. Add enough water to cover the meat.
  3. Cook over low heat for about 3 to 3 1/2 hours until tender.
  4. Remove the meat from the liquid and strain the broth.
  5. Thicken the gravy with 7 tablespoons of flour and 4 teaspoons of sugar.
  6. Slice the meat and serve with hot gravy and buttered noodles.

Tips & Substitutions

For a quicker marinade, consider using a mix of balsamic vinegar and soy sauce in place of vinegar. If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade. Make sure to sear the meat before cooking to enhance the flavor. You can also add carrots or celery to the broth for added depth, similar to techniques used in various beef recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sauerbraten with buttered noodles or boiled potatoes for a classic pairing. A side of red cabbage or a fresh green salad complements the rich flavors well. For a unique twist, try it alongside Coussa for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sliced meat and gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, covered, until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sauerbraten(Quick And Easy) contains roughly 594 calories, with 13g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (241% of the Daily Value), iron (159% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2127mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).

594 kcal 30% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.1g 26% DV
Total Fat 21.7g 28% DV
Carbs 100.5g 37% DV
Fiber 25.4g 91% DV
Sugar 22g 44% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2127.1mg 92% DV
Potassium 1104.6mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 5mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 227.1mcg 25% DV
Vitamin C 217mg 100% DV
Calcium 585.1mg 45% DV
Iron 28.6mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 meat for this recipe?

Yes, while traditional Sauerbraten uses beef, you can substitute venison or even pork if you prefer. Each type of meat will impart its own unique flavor, so adjust cooking times accordingly, as leaner meats like venison may require less time to become tender.

How do I know when the meat is tender enough?

The meat is done when it easily pulls apart with a fork and is no longer chewy. Typically, this will take about 3 to 3.5 hours of low, slow cooking. If you're using a different cut of meat, check for tenderness after 2.5 hours and adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked Sauerbraten and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. For best results, cool it completely before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm slowly on the stove, adding a bit of water if necessary to keep it moist.

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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