Transport yourself to the cozy kitchens of Hessen, Germany with this German Sauerkraut & Bratwurst & Bacon Onion Potatoes recipe. Combining savory bratwurst, tangy sauerkraut, and flavorful bacon onion potatoes, this dish delivers an authentic German dining experience. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, it’s a meal everyone will savor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic German Flavor: A traditional recipe that brings the rich culinary heritage of Germany to your table.
- Layered Flavors: The sauerkraut, apples, brown sugar, and beer create a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.
- Crisp Bratwurst: Perfectly browned bratwurst adds a satisfying texture and flavor.
- Comforting Potatoes: Bacon onion potatoes complete the dish with their smoky and savory goodness.
Ingredient Notes
For the Sauerkraut:
- 3 Tbsp Butter: For caramelizing apples and onions.
- 1 Medium Granny Smith Apple: Adds a sweet, tangy contrast.
- 1 Small Onion (Slivered): Enhances the sauerkraut with a rich flavor.
- 2 Cups Cold-Pack Sauerkraut: Use high-quality sauerkraut for the best results.
- 1/4 Cup Light Brown Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the sauerkraut.
- 1/2 Cup Light Brown Beer: Adds depth and richness.
- 1/8 tsp Black Pepper: For seasoning.
- 1/2 tsp Caraway Seed (Optional): A traditional addition for extra flavor.
For the Bratwurst:
- 6 Good Quality Bratwurst: The star protein of this dish.
- 1 1/2 Cups Water: Used for cooking.
- 2 Tbsp Butter: For browning.
For the Bacon Onion Potatoes:
- 3 Slices Bacon (or 2 Tbsp Real Bacon Bits): Adds smokiness.
- 1/4 Cup Onion (Diced or Slivered): Provides a savory base.
- 1/2 Cup Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing: Adds tang and sweetness.
- 4 Small Red Potatoes (Sliced 1/4″ Thick): The perfect complement to the dish.
- 3 Tbsp Brown Sugar: Enhances the potatoes’ natural sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp Seasoned Salt: For added flavor.
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper: For seasoning.
How to Make German Sauerkraut & Bratwurst & Bacon Onion Potatoes
Step 1: Caramelize the Apples and Onions
Melt 3 Tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the apples and onions and cook until tender and caramelized.
Step 2: Cook the Sauerkraut
Add rinsed and drained sauerkraut to the skillet. Sprinkle with brown sugar, and mix well. Pour in the beer, and season with black pepper and caraway seed. Simmer over low heat until caramelized.
Step 3: Prepare the Bratwurst
In a skillet, add water and butter, and bring to a simmer. Add the bratwurst and cook until browned and crisp on the outside.
Step 4: Make the Bacon Onion Potatoes
Cook the bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Add onions and balsamic vinaigrette, and cook until caramelized. Stir in the potatoes, brown sugar, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While you can freeze the dish, note that the texture of the potatoes may change upon reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Swap bratwurst for vegetarian sausages.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
- Spicy Twist: Add red chili flakes for a hint of heat.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially the beer and sauerkraut, are certified gluten-free.
What to Serve With This Dish
- Dark Rye Bread: Adds an authentic German touch.
- Applesauce: A sweet and refreshing side to balance the savory flavors.
- German Mustard: A dollop of dark mustard enhances the bratwurst.
- Cucumber Salad: A crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked bratwurst?
Yes, pre-cooked bratwurst works well and reduces cooking time.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors develop even more if prepared a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may slightly change after freezing and reheating.
This German Sauerkraut & Bratwurst & Bacon Onion Potatoes recipe delivers an authentic taste of Germany. The tangy sauerkraut, juicy bratwurst, and smoky bacon onion potatoes come together in a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
German Sauerkraut, Bratwurst, and Bacon Onion Potatoes
Ingredients
German Sauerkraut
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple peeled and diced
- 1 small onion slivered
- 2 cups cold-pack sauerkraut rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown beer
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp caraway seed (optional)
Bratwurst
- 6 good-quality bratwurst
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 Tbsp butter
Bacon Onion Potatoes
- 3 slices bacon
- 1/4 cup onion diced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
- 4 small red potatoes sliced 1/4" thick
- 3 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp seasoned salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté apples and onions until caramelized.
- Add sauerkraut, brown sugar, and beer. Season with black pepper and optional caraway seed. Cook over low heat until caramelized.
- In another skillet, cook bratwurst with water and butter until browned.
- For the potatoes, cook bacon until crispy. Add onions and balsamic vinaigrette and caramelize. Mix in potatoes, brown sugar, seasoned salt, and pepper. Cook until potatoes are tender.
- Plate the sauerkraut, bratwurst, and potatoes together. Serve warm and enjoy!