A hearty and savoury Alsatian dish featuring sauerkraut, sausages, and pork cuts.
Prep
30 min
Cook
120 min
Total
150 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
Medium
Instructions
Prepare the Sauerkraut
Rinse the sauerkraut under cold water to reduce its acidity. Drain well and set aside.
Pro tip: Rinsing can be repeated for a milder taste.
Cook the Pork Belly
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, add the pork belly chunks and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes.
Pro tip: Browning adds depth to the flavour.
Combine Ingredients
Add the sauerkraut, white wine, chicken stock, bay leaves, juniper berries, peppercorns, and caraway seeds to the pot with the pork belly.
Pro tip: Stir gently to mix the flavours.
Simmer the Choucroute
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and let cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Sausages and Potatoes
Nestle the sausages, kielbasa, and potatoes into the sauerkraut mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes until everything is heated through and the potatoes are tender. Check the internal temperature of the sausages by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part; they should reach 145°F / 63°C. Let the sausages rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Pro tip: Ensure the sausages are submerged for even cooking.
Serve
Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Transfer the choucroute garnie to a large serving platter, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Pro tip: Serve with mustard for an extra tang.
Tips & Tricks
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning.
- Sauerkraut should be rinsed to reduce acidity.
- For authentic flavour, include juniper berries.
- Sear meat for a rich, caramelized crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is choucroute alsacienne?
Choucroute alsacienne is an Alsatian dish featuring sauerkraut cooked with various meats, typically including sausages and pork.
What are the best sausages for choucroute?
The best sausages for choucroute are typically smoked pork sausages and kielbasa, which add rich, savoury flavours.
How long does it take to cook choucroute garnie?
It takes about 2 hours to cook choucroute garnie, including both preparation and cooking time.
What wine pairs well with choucroute?
A dry Alsatian white wine such as Riesling pairs well with choucroute garnie, complementing the dish's rich flavours.
Can I make choucroute garnie ahead of time?
Yes, choucroute garnie can be made a day ahead and reheated gently to allow the flavours to meld further.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
650
Calories
35g
Protein
40g
Fat
40g
Carbs
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