Do you love sauerkraut and want to try an Alsatian-style recipe with a unique twist? Why not prepare it with beer? This variation enhances the dish’s flavors, making it even more delicious. Discover the benefits of cooking sauerkraut with beer, our best beer-infused sauerkraut recipe, and the ideal beers to use for this classic dish.

Why cook sauerkraut with beer ?

Using beer in sauerkraut intensifies its flavors, giving it a spicier, richer taste. It complements both the fermented cabbage and the variety of meats traditionally used in this Alsatian specialty.

Although sauerkraut originates from China, where fermented cabbage was first prepared, the name "choucroute" is derived from the German "Sauerkraut", meaning sour cabbage. Today, it's a beloved dish across Alsace and beyond.

Authentic beer-infused sauerkraut recipe

Before you begin, gather all the essential ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 1 kg sauerkraut (rinsed and drained)
• 2 onions (sliced)
• 2 shallots (sliced)
• 1 tsp coriander seeds
• 1 tsp juniper berries
• 150g bacon (diced)
• 500g smoked pork shoulder (or other cuts of choice)
• 1 tsp cumin
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 500ml lager beer
• 500ml water
• 4 potatoes (peeled)
• Assorted sausages (Montbéliard, Viennese, or your choice).

Instructions:

1. In a large casserole dish, sauté the onions and shallots until golden.
2. Add the bacon, stirring well, followed by half the juniper berries.
3. Layer half the sauerkraut on top of the bacon, then place the pork shoulder in the center.
4. Cover with the remaining sauerkraut, spices, and juniper berries.
5. Pour in the lager beer and water, ensuring everything is submerged.
6. Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
7. After an hour, add the peeled potatoes and cook for another 20 minutes.
8. Separately, boil the sausages, then serve them alongside your sauerkraut.

This beer sauerkraut pairs perfectly with mustard, crusty bread, or pretzels for an authentic Alsatian experience.

The best beers for cooking sauerkraut

Since sauerkraut is an Alsatian specialty, it’s best to use beers brewed in Bas-Rhin or Haut-Rhin. However, many other beer styles can enhance the dish. Any lager with balanced bitterness will work well.

For an extra layer of malty sweetness, try using amber beers like Akerbeltz Ambrée – A 6% amber ale with notes of malt, spices, and caramel, giving your sauerkraut a unique depth or a Leffe Brune.

Explore our selection of lager beers from craft and renowned breweries in our online shop. We provide detailed tasting notes to help you find the perfect beer for your sauerkraut.

ALCOHOL ABUSE IS DANGEROUS TO YOUR HEALTH. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

Discover other recipes : Recipe for beer-marinated chicken and How to cook a rabbit leg in beer ?