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–+ servings
Sauerkraut
This classic sauerkraut recipe highlights the rich, savory depth created when tangy fermented cabbage meets smoky bacon and sweet onion. A staple in many Central and Eastern European kitchens, it’s commonly served alongside sausages, pork, or hearty dumplings. The method begins by rinsing the kraut several times to mellow its sharpness, then simmering it with bacon, onion, and water for a comforting, rustic side dish. Optional caraway seeds lend a warm, earthy flavor that nods to traditional Germanic influences. It's simple, satisfying, and deeply rooted in regional home cooking.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine German
Servings 8
Calories 266 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs sauerkraut (drained and rinsed 1–3 times)
  • 1 lb bacon (cut in pieces and fried (reserve grease))
  • 1 onion (large, chopped)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp flour
  • caraway seed (optional)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Sauerkraut

  • Drain sauerkraut and rinse 1 to 3 times to reduce acidity. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook Bacon

  • Fry chopped bacon until crisp. Reserve the bacon grease in the pan.

Step 3: Cook Onion

  • Add chopped onion to the bacon and grease. Sauté until translucent.

Step 4: Make Slurry

  • In a small bowl, mix 1 tsp flour with 1 cup of water. Stir to dissolve.

Step 5: Combine & Simmer

  • Add the flour-water mixture and sauerkraut to the pan. Stir to combine.
  • Simmer over low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Optional Add-ins

  • Add caraway seed during the last 10 minutes, if using.

Tips

  • Rinse sauerkraut more or less depending on desired tanginess
  • Add extra bacon for a richer, smokier flavor
  • Substitute diced ham or salt pork for the bacon
  • Use butter instead of bacon fat for a milder version
  • Add a pinch of sugar to balance sharp acidity
  • Caraway seeds enhance traditional German flavor
  • Simmer longer for softer, sweeter cabbage
  • Excellent make-ahead dish, flavor improves overnight

Nutrition

Calories: 266kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 8gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 1127mgPotassium: 325mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 42IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 42mgIron: 2mg
Keyword bacon, cabbage, comfort food, sauerkraut, savory side dish, traditional, vintage recipe
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