Skillet Franks And Apple Kraut
A hearty skillet dish featuring frankfurters simmered in a flavorful apple kraut mixture, perfect for a comforting meal with a sweet and savory profile that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the franks crosswise 8 times, cutting 3/4 of the way through each.
- In a large skillet, fry the franks in butter until slightly browned and curved.
- Remove the franks and set aside.
- Add onion rings to the skillet with butter and sauté until transparent.
- Add applesauce, water, and the beef bouillon cube to the skillet.
- Simmer, stirring until the cube dissolves.
- Add sauerkraut and celery seed; mix well.
- Arrange the franks on top of the mixture and cover the skillet.
- Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using beef franks instead of regular franks. You can also substitute the beef bouillon cube with vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian version. Consider adding spices like paprika or a dash of cinnamon to enhance the dish's flavor. If you prefer a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple garden salad to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Cinnamon Flop for dessert, providing a sweet contrast to the savory franks and kraut. For a complete meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave the dish in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Franks And Apple Kraut contains roughly 739 calories, with 5g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% 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 substitute the franks with another type of sausage?
Yes, you can definitely use any type of sausage you prefer, such as kielbasa or turkey sausage. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, ensuring they are fully cooked before serving.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the skillet when sautéing the onions. This will give the dish an extra kick while still maintaining the balance of flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet or the oven until warmed through.
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).