Choucroute Garnie
A hearty Alsatian specialty featuring sauerkraut slow-braised with a generous assortment of cured and smoked meats, and tender potatoes. This dish embodies the rich, comforting flavors of Alsace.
๐ง Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Sauerkraut
- 500 g Smoked pork belly
- 6 Frankfurters (Wieners)
- 4 Strasbourg sausages (Knacks)
- 8 Potatoes
- 10 Juniper berries
- 500 ml Dry Riesling wine
- 3 tbsp Goose fat or Lard
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1 tsp Black peppercorns
- 250 ml Water or Chicken Broth
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Prepare the sauerkraut: Rinse the sauerkraut thoroughly under cold running water at least 2-3 times to remove excess brine and acidity. Drain very well, squeezing out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for a balanced flavor.
โฑ๏ธ 20 minutes - 2
Assemble the base: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the goose fat over medium heat. Add the rinsed sauerkraut and spread it evenly. Layer the smoked pork belly chunks, crushed juniper berries, bay leaves, and peppercorns over the sauerkraut. Do not stir.
โฑ๏ธ 10 minutes - 3
Add liquids and begin braising: Pour the Riesling wine over the sauerkraut and meat. Add about 250ml of water or chicken broth, just enough to partially cover the ingredients. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the sauerkraut. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
โฑ๏ธ 5 minutes - 4
Braise the base: Cover the pot tightly with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let it braise gently for 2 hours. The sauerkraut should be tender and infused with the flavors of the pork and wine. Check occasionally to ensure there is enough liquid; add a splash more water or broth if it looks dry.
โฑ๏ธ 2 hours - 5
Add potatoes and sausages: After 2 hours of braising, nestle the peeled potatoes into the sauerkraut. Arrange the pricked frankfurters and Strasbourg sausages on top of the sauerkraut and potatoes. Ensure they are partially submerged in the liquid.
โฑ๏ธ 5 minutes - 6
Complete the braise: Replace the lid and continue to braise for another 1 hour, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the sausages are heated through and plump. The total braising time should be around 3 hours.
โฑ๏ธ 1 hour - 7
Serve: Carefully ladle the choucroute garnie onto a large platter or individual plates. Ensure each serving includes a generous portion of sauerkraut, pork belly, potatoes, and a selection of sausages. Serve immediately with your favorite mustards on the side.
โฑ๏ธ 5 minutes
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a richer flavor, use a good quality Alsatian dry Riesling.
- โCrushing the juniper berries releases more of their aromatic oils.
- โDon't skip rinsing the sauerkraut; it significantly mellows its sharp acidity.
- โServe with a variety of mustards, such as Dijon, whole grain, and a sweet Alsatian mustard.
- โThis dish benefits from being made a day ahead and reheated, allowing flavors to meld further.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Include other cured meats like smoked ham hocks or bacon.
- Add smoked fish for a 'Choucroute de la Mer' variation.
- Incorporate thinly sliced apples during the last hour of braising for a touch of sweetness.