Squirrel In Sauerkraut With Sausages
A hearty dish featuring tender squirrel pieces simmered with sauerkraut, sausages, and bacon, infused with garlic and caraway seeds for a savory, rustic flavor. Perfect for hearty appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the squirrel into serving size pieces.
- Saute the squirrel pieces in margarine until browned.
- Fry 6 bacon slices in a large skillet until crispy.
- Add sausages to the skillet and brown them in the bacon fat.
- Add sauerkraut, sliced garlic, caraway seed, and beer to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet contents to a deep baking dish or casserole.
- Bury the squirrel pieces in the sauerkraut.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour, adding more beer if it cooks down too much.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the squirrel pieces in beer for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of caraway seed. Using a different type of sausage, such as smoked sausage, can add an extra layer of flavor. If sauerkraut is too tangy for your taste, rinse it before adding to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad can add a nice contrast to the rich flavors. This meal pairs wonderfully with a cold beer or a glass of wine, making it ideal for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beer or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be reheated in the oven at 350°F covered with foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squirrel In Sauerkraut With Sausages contains roughly 1260 calories, with 26g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (148% of the Daily Value), iron (103% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2263mg per serving (98% 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 different types of meat instead of squirrel?
Yes, you can substitute squirrel with other game meats like rabbit or even chicken. Adjust the cooking times based on the meat you choose, as chicken will typically cook faster than squirrel.
What can I serve with Squirrel in Sauerkraut?
This dish pairs beautifully with hearty sides like roasted potatoes or a simple green salad. You could also serve it alongside American recipes like Barbecued Burger Beans for a complete meal.
How do I know when the squirrel is fully cooked?
The squirrel is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The meat should be tender and easily fall off the bone. Cooking it for the full hour in the sauerkraut will help ensure it is cooked 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).