Choucroute, also known as Alsatian-style sauerkraut, is a traditional dish from the Alsace region of France. It typically consists of sauerkraut cooked with various meats, such as sausages, ham hocks, and pork belly. Here’s a recipe to make choucroute at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp (5 ml) juniper berries
- 1 tsp (5 ml) caraway seeds
- 4 bratwurst sausages
- 4 smoked pork chops
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 small potatoes, peeled and halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of oil until soft.
- Add the sauerkraut, white wine, bay leaf, juniper berries, and caraway seeds to the pot, and stir to combine.
- Arrange the sausages, pork chops, bacon, and potatoes on top of the sauerkraut mixture.
- Cover the pot and bring to a simmer over low heat.
- Cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of water or more white wine if the mixture gets too dry.
- After 1 hour, remove the lid and continue to cook for another 30 minutes or until the meats and potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the meats, potatoes, and sauerkraut to a serving platter.
- Slice the sausages and pork chops, and arrange them on top of the sauerkraut.
- Serve hot with mustard and crusty bread on the side.
Choucroute is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a cold winter evening. Enjoy your homemade Alsatian-style sauerkraut!
