Vitacost's Bavarian Kraut: A Tasty And Healthy Treat

Yes, Vitacost does have Hengstenberg Bavarian Style Sauerkraut with Wine. Hengstenberg is a popular brand in Southern Germany and is the number one wine sauerkraut in Germany. It is also the most popular worldwide. The Hengstenberg brand is vegan, lactose-free, and gluten-free. It is made with white cabbage, white wine, salt, and antioxidant: ascorbic acid.

Hengstenberg Bavarian Style Sauerkraut with Wine

Ingredients and Nutrition:

The primary ingredients in Hengstenberg Bavarian Style Sauerkraut with Wine are white cabbage, white wine, salt, and ascorbic acid (an antioxidant). It is free from gluten, lactose, and preservatives, making it suitable for various dietary restrictions. Each serving provides approximately 22 calories and offers a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Preparation and Serving Suggestions:

To prepare Hengstenberg Bavarian Style Sauerkraut with Wine, simply simmer it with one cup of water or meat stock for 15-20 minutes. It is recommended to serve it hot and enjoy the delicious taste of Germany's favourite sauerkraut. You can also try adding some bacon fat, olive oil, or vegetable shortening for a more indulgent experience.

Availability and Storage:

Benefits of Fermented Foods:

Fermented foods like sauerkraut offer various health benefits due to the presence of probiotics, which support digestion and a healthy immune response. Fermentation breaks down foods, increasing the availability of vitamins and minerals, making it easier for your body to absorb these essential nutrients. Additionally, fermented foods are partly pre-digested, enhancing their nutritional benefits.

A Touch of History:

Sauerkraut, which literally translates to "sour cabbage," has a long history. While it is widely associated with German cuisine, it is believed that the practice of pickling cabbage with salt originated in Roman times, and the Chinese were fermenting cabbage with rice wine over 2,000 years ago. Captain James Cook was also a fan of sauerkraut, as it helped prevent scurvy during his seafaring adventures.

How to Cook Bavarian-Style Sauerkraut

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of Bavarian-style sauerkraut (look for brands that offer this specific variety, such as Vitacost)
• 2 tablespoons of duck fat or bacon grease
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds, lightly crushed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 teaspoon of black peppercorns, lightly crushed
• 1/2 cup of dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sauerkraut:

Start by rinsing the sauerkraut under cold running water. This step helps to remove some of the excess salt and any residue from the packing process. After rinsing, squeeze the sauerkraut with your hands to remove any excess moisture. If you prefer a less tangy flavor, you can soak the sauerkraut in cold water for 15–30 minutes before rinsing and draining it.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the duck fat or bacon grease over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent. Be careful not to burn the onion, as it should only be lightly browned. Then, add the caraway seeds, bay leaf, and black peppercorns. Stir everything together and cook for another minute or so to release the aromas of the spices.

Step 3: Add the Sauerkraut and Liquid:

Put the drained sauerkraut into the pot and give it a good stir to combine it with the aromatics. Pour in the dry white wine (if using) and the water. The liquid should just cover the sauerkraut. Add the sugar (if using) at this point as well; it will help balance the acidity of the sauerkraut and enhance the natural sweetness of the cabbage. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook:

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauerkraut simmer gently. Cook for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is tender and flavorful. The longer you cook it, the softer and more mellow the flavor will become. If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add a little more water as needed to keep the sauerkraut moist.

Step 5: Season and Serve:

Once the sauerkraut has finished cooking, remove the bay leaf and taste the dish. Season with salt as needed, keeping in mind that the sauerkraut itself may already be quite salty. Serve the Bavarian-style sauerkraut hot as a side dish, or use it as a topping for sausages, potatoes, or your favorite German-inspired meal. It pairs exceptionally well with pork, bratwurst, or grilled meats. Enjoy!

With these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious, traditional Bavarian-style sauerkraut at home, adding a tasty and healthy twist to your meals.

Is Bavarian-Style Sauerkraut Healthy?

Sauerkraut is a traditional German dish that has become popular worldwide. It is made by pickling cabbage with salt and is often seasoned with ingredients such as white wine, apples, and caraway seeds. While it is typically served as a side dish, it can also be eaten on its own or added to salads and sandwiches.

Nutritional Benefits of Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is often touted as a superfood due to its high nutrient content and potential health benefits. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of sauerkraut:

• Low in Calories: Sauerkraut is a low-calorie food, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
• High in Vitamins: It is an excellent source of vitamins C, B, and K, which are essential for immune function, reducing inflammation, and maintaining heart and bone health.
• Good Source of Dietary Fiber: The dietary fiber in sauerkraut aids digestion, helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and may help lower cholesterol.
• Rich in Probiotics: When eaten raw, sauerkraut contains beneficial probiotics and enzymes that support digestive health and a healthy immune response.
• Contains Iron and Calcium: Sauerkraut is a good source of iron and calcium, which are essential minerals for overall health.

Potential Drawbacks

While sauerkraut offers several health benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

• High in Sodium: Sauerkraut is pickled with salt, resulting in a high sodium content. This may be a concern for individuals watching their salt intake.
• Potential for Food Allergies: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in sauerkraut, such as cabbage or spices.
• Risk of Contamination: If not properly prepared or stored, sauerkraut may be contaminated with harmful bacteria, which can cause foodborne illnesses.

Tips for Preparing and Storing Sauerkraut

To maximize the health benefits and minimize potential risks, consider the following tips when preparing and storing sauerkraut:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: When making homemade sauerkraut, use fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure optimal nutrient content and reduce the risk of contamination.
• Proper Fermentation: Ensure that the fermentation process is carried out correctly to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
• Refrigerate or Freeze: Store sauerkraut in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life and preserve the nutrients and probiotics.
• Consume in Moderation: While sauerkraut offers health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sodium content.

In conclusion, Bavarian-style sauerkraut can be a healthy and delicious addition to your diet. It offers various nutritional benefits, including vitamins, fiber, and probiotics. However, it is important to be mindful of the potential drawbacks, such as high sodium content, and prepare and store it properly to ensure optimal health benefits.

What to Serve with Bavarian-Style Sauerkraut

Bavarian-style sauerkraut is a delicious side dish that goes well with many German meat dishes. Here are some ideas on what to serve with it:

Meat Dishes

Bavarian sauerkraut is often served with meat, especially pork, as the two are a match made in heaven. Try it with crispy pork hocks, baked pork chops, schnitzel, or pork chops in milk marinade. It is also a perfect side for Romanian meatballs or German sausages such as bratwurst, kielbasa, knackwurst, or German wieners.

Dumplings and Potatoes

Bavarian sauerkraut can be served with bread dumplings, potato dumplings, or potatoes (mashed, roasted, or boiled).

Other Side Dishes

If you want to make a meal with multiple side dishes, Bavarian sauerkraut goes well with other German side dishes such as German potato salad.

Where to Buy Bavarian-Style Sauerkraut

Hengstenberg's Bavarian-style sauerkraut with wine is available at Vitacost. Hengstenberg is Germany's number one sauerkraut brand, and its products are available worldwide. The wine sauerkraut is vegan, lactose-free, and gluten-free.

Libby's Bavarian-style sauerkraut is available at Amazon and Walmart. The Libby's product is also canned, and it includes caraway seeds.

Bavarian-style sauerkraut is also available at The Kitchen Maus, although it is unclear whether this is a recipe or a product. If you are looking to buy from a smaller business, this may be a good option.

If you are looking for a wider selection of German products, German delis and European food stores are your best bet. Alternatively, larger supermarkets with an ethnic food section may also stock German brands of sauerkraut.

Frequently asked questions