This classic German-inspired dish combines tender, slow-braised spareribs with a rich and tangy Bohemian sauerkraut. The ribs are browned in shortening and simmered until fork-tender, then finished by braising in the flavorful sauerkraut mixture. The kraut itself is a comforting blend of fermented cabbage, caramelized onions, caraway seeds, and a touch of sweetness from sugar, all enriched with savory bacon drippings. The result is a deeply satisfying meal that balances the richness of the pork with the bright acidity of the kraut. Perfect for a hearty weekend dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this recipe brings authentic home-style comfort to your table. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Spareribs & Bohemian Sauerkraut
Description
This classic German-inspired dish combines tender, slow-braised spareribs with a rich and tangy Bohemian sauerkraut. The ribs are browned in shortening and simmered until fork-tender, then finished by braising in the flavorful sauerkraut mixture. The kraut itself is a comforting blend of fermented cabbage, caramelized onions, caraway seeds, and a touch of sweetness from sugar, all enriched with savory bacon drippings. The result is a deeply satisfying meal that balances the richness of the pork with the bright acidity of the kraut. Perfect for a hearty weekend dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this recipe brings authentic home-style comfort to your table. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut the spareribs into individual serving-sized pieces.
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Season the ribs generously with 1 teaspoon of salt.
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Melt the shortening in a heavy kettle or large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Brown the seasoned ribs on all sides in the melted shortening.
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Add 1/4 cup of water to the kettle.
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Cover the kettle and cook the ribs slowly for 1 hour.
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Meanwhile, empty the sauerkraut into a separate heavy kettle. If the kraut is very tart, rinse it briefly, drain well, and add 3/4 cup of fresh water.
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Add the chopped onion, caraway seeds, remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt, sugar, and bacon drippings to the sauerkraut.
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Cover the sauerkraut kettle and cook slowly for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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After the ribs have cooked for 1 hour, pour off the cooking drippings from the rib kettle into a small bowl, reserving the liquid.
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Stir the cooked sauerkraut mixture and 3 tablespoons of the reserved rib drippings into the kettle with the ribs.
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Cover and continue cooking slowly for an additional 1 hour, until the ribs are tender.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 650.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 45.0g70%
- Saturated Fat 15.0g75%
- Cholesterol 110.0mg37%
- Sodium 1400.0mg59%
- Total Carbohydrate 25.0g9%
- Dietary Fiber 2.0g8%
- Sugars 12.0g
- Protein 35.0g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.