Ingredients

2 lbs sauerkraut ( not from a can )
4 ounces bacon , diced
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 large onion , chopped
3 carrots , peeled and diced
2 granny smith apples , grated
8 juniper berries
8 ounces white wine
28 ounces low sodium chicken broth ( or less )
2 lbs kielbasa , sliced 1/2-inch thick on the bias
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon kosher salt ( to taste )
2 teaspoons ground black pepper ( to taste )
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Crock Pot Choucroute Garni is a dish that originated in the Alsace region of France, but it is now popular throughout Europe and the United States. The dish features sauerkraut, a type of fermented cabbage, which is cooked low and slow with kielbasa, bacon, and a variety of vegetables and spices. This particular recipe is designed to be cooked in a slow cooker, which allows the flavors to meld together over several hours. The result is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for cold weather. This recipe serves 8-10 people, making it a great option for a dinner party or family gathering.

Instructions

1.Rinse the sauerkraut in cold water and drain.
2.In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, stirring occasionally.
3.Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4.Add the vegetable oil, onion, and carrots to the bacon fat and cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened.
5.Add the grated apples to the skillet along with the juniper berries, white wine, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6.Add the sliced kielbasa to a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
7.Pour the onion and apple mixture over the top.
8.Add the rinsed sauerkraut on top of the onion and apple mixture.
9.Sprinkle the thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper over the top of the sauerkraut.
10.Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
11.Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon and fresh parsley.

PROS

Crock Pot Choucroute Garni is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold weather.

The slow cooker does most of the work for you, making this a great option for busy weeknights.

This recipe makes a large batch, so leftovers can be used for lunches throughout the week.

CONS

This dish is relatively high in sodium due to the use of sauerkraut and kielbasa.

It is also fairly high in calories and fat due to the bacon and kielbasa.

This recipe uses white wine, so it is not suitable for those who do not consume alcohol.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite the high calorie and sodium content, Crock Pot Choucroute Garni does have some health benefits.
The sauerkraut in this recipe is high in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
The addition of apples and carrots provides additional fiber and micronutrients.

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