Zuurkoolstamppot
Dutch Sauerkraut and Potato Mash
A hearty and comforting Dutch winter classic, Zuurkoolstamppot features fluffy mashed potatoes blended with tangy sauerkraut and savory crispy bacon. Traditionally served with a smoked sausage (rookworst) and a dollop of mustard.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(Starchy potatoes like Maris Piper, King Edward, or Russets work best for mashing.)
- 500 g Sauerkraut(Look for good quality, unpasteurized sauerkraut in the refrigerated section for the best flavor. If using canned, drain very well.)
- 200 g Bacon(Smoked streaky bacon, diced into lardons.)
- 4 pieces Rookworst(Pre-cooked smoked Dutch sausage. Can be substituted with other smoked sausages.)
- 50 g Butter(Unsalted butter, softened.)
- 100 ml Milk(Whole milk recommended for richness. Warm it slightly before adding.)
- 4 pieces Juniper berries(Optional, but adds a traditional aromatic depth to the sauerkraut.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks (about 5cm). Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and simmer until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce a potato chunk with a fork.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 2
Cook the sauerkraut: While the potatoes are boiling, place the sauerkraut in a saucepan with the juniper berries (if using). Add just enough water to barely cover the bottom of the pan. Cover and simmer gently over low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauerkraut to soften slightly. Drain the sauerkraut very thoroughly, pressing out any excess liquid. Discard the juniper berries.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 3
Cook the bacon and rookworst: In a separate frying pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat in the pan. In another pot, bring water to a gentle simmer (do not boil rapidly). Add the rookworst and poach for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier skin, you can pan-fry the rookworst in the reserved bacon fat for a few minutes after poaching.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them very well. Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat for a minute to evaporate any residual moisture. Mash the potatoes until smooth using a potato masher or ricer. Add the softened butter and warm milk, mashing until creamy and well combined. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Combine and serve: Add the well-drained sauerkraut and most of the crispy bacon to the mashed potatoes. Gently fold everything together until just combined – avoid overmixing, as this can make the mash gummy. Serve the Zuurkoolstamppot hot, topped with the cooked rookworst (sliced or whole) and the remaining crispy bacon. A dollop of mustard is a traditional accompaniment.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the sauerkraut is squeezed very dry to prevent a watery mash.
- ✓For extra flavor, you can sauté a finely chopped onion in the reserved bacon fat before adding it to the mash.
- ✓If you like a crispier rookworst, after poaching, you can score the skin and pan-fry it in a little butter or the reserved bacon fat until browned.
- ✓Taste and adjust seasoning (salt and pepper) at the end, as sauerkraut can be quite salty.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped, sautéed apple (like Elstar or Goudreinet) along with the sauerkraut for a touch of sweetness.
- Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version (ensure rookworst is vegetarian if needed).