Sauerkraut Stew
A hearty sauerkraut stew blending sausage, apples, and vegetables with a touch of sweetness, perfect for comforting family dinners or cold weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice and brown the kielbasa or beef and German sausage in a Dutch oven.
- Add coarsely chopped yellow onion, peeled and sliced potatoes, and sliced carrots (about 1/2 inch thick).
- Drain and rinse the sauerkraut; peel and slice the tart apples.
- Add the rinsed sauerkraut and sliced apples to the pot with the sausage and vegetables.
- Pour in 1/2 cup frozen apple juice concentrate and 2 quarts of sauerkraut liquid or water if needed.
- Cook on low heat until the carrots are tender, about 2 hours.
- Optionally, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of brown sugar for extra sweetness.
- Serve hot, enjoying the savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked kielbasa or adding a bit of sauerkraut juice to the pot. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meats with hearty mushrooms or a mix of beans to create a satisfying dish. You can also use sweet apples if you want a milder sweetness instead of tart ones.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It's a hearty main dish that pairs well with crusty bread or a side of White Cucumber Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Microwave Vegetable Medley.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sauerkraut Stew contains roughly 838 calories, with 17g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (135% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (115% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in this stew?
Yes, you can use other meats like pork or chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender. Just keep in mind that different meats will impart unique flavors to the stew.
How can I make this stew healthier?
To make this stew healthier, you can reduce the amount of sausage or use leaner cuts of meat. Additionally, increase the quantity of vegetables like carrots and potatoes to boost the nutrient content while maintaining flavor.
Is this stew suitable for freezing?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop.
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).