Print

Cozy German Sauerkraut Recipe with Bacon Perfect for Easy Comfort Meals

German sauerkraut recipe with bacon - featured image

A comforting and flavorful German sauerkraut dish with smoky bacon and toasted caraway seeds, perfect for cozy meals and easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 28 ounces (about 800 grams) sauerkraut, drained but not rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened (optional)

Instructions

  1. Chop the thick-cut bacon into Β½-inch pieces. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and fat is rendered. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the skillet.
  2. Toast the caraway seeds in a small dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the bacon fat in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and sautΓ© for 30 seconds until aromatic.
  4. Stir in the drained sauerkraut and toasted caraway seeds. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauerkraut to caramelize slightly.
  5. Add apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in butter if using for a richer finish.
  6. Return the crispy bacon to the pan and mix evenly with the sauerkraut. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot as a side or main dish.

Notes

Render bacon slowly over medium heat to avoid burnt bits and chewy texture. Toast caraway seeds separately to release aroma. Do not rinse sauerkraut to keep tangy flavor; just drain well. If sauerkraut feels dry during cooking, add a splash of chicken broth or water. Butter is optional for a richer finish. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan spread.

Nutrition

Keywords: German sauerkraut recipe, bacon sauerkraut, comfort food, easy sauerkraut, caraway seeds, cozy meals, weeknight dinner