Eisbein
German Pork Knuckle
A classic German beer hall dish featuring tender, slow-cooked pork knuckles, traditionally boiled and sometimes finished with a crispy roast. Served with hearty sauerkraut and sharp mustard.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 Pork knuckles (fresh or cured)(Fresh knuckles will require longer cooking. Cured knuckles (like Kassler) will be saltier and cook faster. If using fresh, consider brining them beforehand for extra flavor and tenderness.)
- Enough to cover Water or light beer(Using beer adds a subtle malty flavor.)
- 3 Bay leaves(Adds an aromatic depth.)
- 1 tbsp Juniper berries(Crush lightly before adding to release more flavor.)
- 1 tsp Whole black peppercorns(Optional, for a gentle peppery note.)
- To taste Salt(Adjust based on whether knuckles are fresh or cured. Start with less if using cured.)
- 500 g Sauerkraut(Good quality store-bought or homemade.)
- 1 tbsp Butter or Lard(For sautéing sauerkraut.)
- 1/2 medium Onion(Finely chopped, for sautéing with sauerkraut.)
- 1 tsp Caraway seeds(Optional, complements sauerkraut.)
- for serving Sharp German mustard(Such as Löwensenf or similar.)
- for garnish Fresh parsley(Optional, chopped.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Pork Knuckles: Rinse the pork knuckles under cold water. If using fresh knuckles, you may want to score the skin lightly in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps with rendering fat and achieving crispiness if roasting later.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Boil the Pork Knuckles: Place the pork knuckles in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add the bay leaves, lightly crushed juniper berries, and black peppercorns (if using). Cover the knuckles completely with cold water or light beer. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the first 15-20 minutes. Cover the pot and let simmer gently for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone. For cured knuckles, start checking for tenderness after 2 hours as they may cook faster.
⏱️ 2.5 to 3 hours - 3
Prepare the Sauerkraut: While the knuckles are simmering, prepare the sauerkraut. Melt the butter or lard in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the sauerkraut, caraway seeds (if using), and about 1/4 cup (60ml) of the knuckle cooking liquid (or water/broth). Stir to combine. Cover and simmer gently for at least 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and tender. Season with salt to taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of the knuckles.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes - 4
Optional: Crisp the Skin: If you prefer a crispy exterior (Schweinshaxe style), carefully remove the boiled knuckles from the cooking liquid. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Increase oven temperature to 220°C (425°F). Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until the skin is puffed and golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
⏱️ 20-30 minutes - 5
Serve: Carefully lift the tender pork knuckles from the cooking liquid (reserve liquid for other uses if desired). Place a generous portion of the heated sauerkraut onto each plate. Top with a pork knuckle. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with plenty of sharp German mustard on the side.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra tender meat, ensure the liquid is barely simmering, not boiling vigorously.
- ✓If using fresh pork knuckles, consider brining them for 1-2 days prior to cooking for enhanced flavor and moisture.
- ✓The cooking liquid, strained, can be used as a base for gravies or soups.
- ✓Serve with traditional sides like potato dumplings (Knödel) or mashed potatoes.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Schweinshaxe: Focus on achieving a very crispy skin by roasting the boiled knuckle at a high temperature.
- With Pea Purée (Erbspüree): A common accompaniment in Northern Germany.
- Smoked Eisbein: Use pre-smoked pork knuckles for a deeper flavor profile.