Bavarian Sauerkraut

Bavarian sauerkraut is a warm, savory-sweet variation of traditional sauerkraut, enriched with apples, onions, spices, and a splash of wine for depth. It’s gently simmered until tender, allowing all the flavors to blend into a comforting German-style side dish. Perfect alongside sausages, pork chops, or hearty Bavarian meals, this sauerkraut adds tangy richness without being overly sour. It’s simple to prepare and delicious enough to become a staple for Oktoberfest celebrations or cozy dinners at home.

Ingredients

• 1 jar (about 32 ounces) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 apple, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 bay leaf
• 5 juniper berries (optional)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)

Directions

1. Drain and rinse sauerkraut under cold water; squeeze out excess liquid.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion 3–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and diced apple; cook 2–3 minutes until apple begins to soften.
4. Stir in sauerkraut to combine with aromatics.
5. Add white wine, bay leaf, juniper berries (if using), caraway seeds, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Pour in broth so the sauerkraut is mostly submerged. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Stir in butter at the end if desired; adjust seasoning.
9. Remove bay leaf and juniper berries before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 110 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 6

Tips

• Bacon fat adds rich, smoky flavor in place of vegetable oil.
• Adjust sugar to make the dish more or less sweet depending on your taste.

FAQ

Do I need to rinse the sauerkraut?
Rinsing reduces excessive sourness and gives a milder, balanced flavor.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes—sauerkraut tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

What if I don’t have white wine?
Substitute chicken broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.

Are juniper berries necessary?
No—they add traditional Bavarian flavor but can be omitted.