Looking for a hearty and comforting meal that’s easy to make on the stove? Look no further than pork and sauerkraut!
This classic German-style dish is perfect for cooler months, Oktoberfest celebrations, or even as a lucky New Year’s meal. And the best part? It’s a set-it-and-forget-it type of meal that you can leave simmering on the stove while you go about your day.
In this article, we’ll explore different ways to cook pork and sauerkraut on the stove, from skillet to slow cooker methods. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How Do You Cook Pork And Sauerkraut On The Stove?
There are several ways to cook pork and sauerkraut on the stove, depending on your preferences and available equipment. Here are some methods to try:
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking pork and sauerkraut on the stove, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Pork roast or pork steaks: You can use either a pork roast or pork steaks for this recipe. The amount will depend on how many people you’re serving and how much meat you want in your dish.
– Sauerkraut: Look for canned or jarred sauerkraut at your local grocery store. You’ll need enough to cover the bottom of your pot or skillet.
– Onion: One large onion or a few small ones will work well for this recipe. You’ll want to slice them thinly.
– Seasonings: You’ll need salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika.
– Liquid: Depending on the recipe you choose, you may need water, chicken broth, or wine to add moisture to the dish.
– Optional ingredients: Some recipes call for additional ingredients, such as brown sugar, apple sauce, caraway seeds, or gravy mix.
Once you have all of your ingredients ready, you can start cooking your pork and sauerkraut on the stove. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal!
Preparing The Pork And Sauerkraut
Before cooking the pork and sauerkraut on the stove, it is important to properly prepare the ingredients. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and patting the pork dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and smoked paprika all over the roast for added flavor.
Next, heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil starts to simmer, carefully place the pork roast in the pan and sear it on all sides until golden brown, which should take around 5-8 minutes per side. This step is crucial for adding depth and complexity to the dish.
In a lidded 6-quart Dutch oven, place sauerkraut all over the bottom. Sprinkle caraway seeds, onions, apples, and brown sugar over the sauerkraut for added sweetness and texture. Nestle the seared pork roast on top of the sauerkraut and add water if necessary to ensure there is at least one cup of liquid in the pot.
Cover the Dutch oven tightly with a lid and bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours or until a meat thermometer reads between 145°F-150°F. It is important to check the pot occasionally to ensure it is not drying out, adding more water if needed.
Once cooked, carefully remove the roast from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Cover it loosely with foil and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. The result should be tender, juicy pork with flavorful sauerkraut that is perfect for any occasion.
Other methods for preparing pork and sauerkraut on the stove include browning the pork well on either side before adding it to a roasting pan or Dutch oven with sauerkraut mixture. It’s important not to skip browning the onions as they will retain an unpleasant flavor if not cooked properly. Regardless of your preferred method, taking care in preparing your ingredients will result in a delicious and satisfying meal.
Skillet Method
The skillet method is a quick and easy way to cook pork and sauerkraut on the stove. To start, heat some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced potatoes and sauté until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Then, add onion and sliced kielbasa and toss until the kielbasa browns and the onion softens, about 5 more minutes. Once fragrant, add rinsed and drained sauerkraut, apple juice, and brown sugar to the skillet, mixing until combined. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes. Finally, season with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dish can be served immediately or stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
This method is perfect for those who want a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor. It’s also great for those who don’t have a slow cooker or Dutch oven available. The skillet method allows for easy customization as well – you can add different vegetables or spices to make it your own. Overall, the skillet method for cooking pork and sauerkraut on the stove is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this classic comfort food.
Dutch Oven Method
One popular method for cooking pork and sauerkraut on the stove is using a Dutch Oven. This method involves browning the pork roast on the stove top before transferring it to the oven to finish cooking. The Dutch Oven is an ideal tool for this method because it can be used on both the stove top and in the oven.
To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Drizzle some oil on the bottom of your Dutch Oven and heat it on medium-high heat. Season your pork roast with salt and pepper and brown it on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. Sprinkle a tablespoon of brown sugar on top of the pork roast and lay a few pieces of butter on top of the sugar.
Cover the Dutch Oven with its lid and place it in the oven. Cook for one hour, then carefully remove from the oven and add a 32-ounce jar of sauerkraut to the pot. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, cover again, and cook for an additional two hours.
For added flavor, you can also add some apple slices to the Dutch Oven along with the sauerkraut. Just peel two fresh apples, slice them, and add them to the pot.
Once your pork roast is fully cooked, remove it from the Dutch Oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Slow Cooker Method
The slow cooker method is a popular and convenient way to cook pork and sauerkraut. First, season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Then, slice onions and apples and place them in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add drained sauerkraut around the pork and sprinkle brown sugar, caraway seeds, salt, pepper, and bay leaves on top. Pour apple juice around the meat.
Cook the pork and sauerkraut on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours. Once done, remove the sauerkraut mixture to a serving bowl or platter. Transfer the pork to a cutting board and slice it thickly. This method results in tender and flavorful pork that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut mixture.
Another variation of this method involves mixing together onion, sauerkraut, apple butter, mustard, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Place the pork loin in the slow cooker and top it with the sauerkraut mixture. Cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours until the pork is easily shredded with a fork.
For those who prefer a sweeter taste, combine sauerkraut, chopped onion, sliced apple, maple syrup, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Spread it evenly over the pork roast in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is very tender and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions And Variations
Once your pork and sauerkraut are ready, it’s time to think about serving suggestions and variations. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of this comforting dish:
1. Mashed Potatoes: One classic way to serve pork and sauerkraut is over a bed of mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs well with the tangy flavor of the sauerkraut and the savory taste of the pork.
2. Egg Noodles: If you prefer a lighter side dish, consider serving your pork and sauerkraut over a bed of egg noodles. The noodles will soak up some of the flavorful juices from the dish, making for a satisfying and delicious meal.
3. Bread: Another option is to serve your pork and sauerkraut with a crusty loaf of bread. Use the bread to soak up the juices from the dish, or simply enjoy it on the side for a hearty and filling meal.
4. Variations: There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Some people like to add caraway seeds for an extra burst of flavor, while others prefer to add sliced apples or garlic for a different twist. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as beef or chicken, if you prefer.
5. Thicken The Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, mix some cornstarch with cold water and add it to the pot after the pork is cooked. Turn up the heat slightly and let it cook until it thickens.
Remember, cooking is all about creativity! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and serving suggestions until you find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
