Savory Sauerkraut Soup with Veal and Pork

This hearty and flavorful soup combines the rich tastes of tender veal and pork with tangy sauerkraut. A comforting dish perfect for chilly days, it brings warmth and savory satisfaction in every spoonful. The slow-cooked meats infuse the broth with deep, enriching flavors while the sauerkraut adds a delightful tang. The addition of onions and garlic highlights the savory notes, creating a balanced meld of tastes. This soup is nutritious, providing a good source of proteins and healthy fats. It’s versatile enough to be a main course or a starter, and it can be adapted to suit different palates and dietary preferences. Preparing it is an engaging process, ideal for those who enjoy taking their time in the kitchen. Excite your taste buds with every savory bite, and enjoy the heartwarming aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 600 g veal with bone
• 400 g pork shoulder
• 2 kg sauerkraut

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 large onion
• 4 garlic cloves

Spices

• Pepper
• 1 tbsp salt (if needed)

Preparation Time

160 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering and preparing your ingredients. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic cloves.
2. Start the Broth: In a large pot, bring 5 liters of water to a boil. Immerse the veal with bone to simmer and produce a flavorful broth.
3. Prep the Pork: While the veal is simmering, chop the pork into small, manageable pieces.
4. Combine Meats and Aromatics: Add the chopped pork into the pot, bring water to a gentle boil, and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
5. Infuse with Flavors: Once skimmed, add the whole onion, garlic cloves, pepper, and salt (if needed) to enhance the flavors.
6. Introduce the Sauerkraut: Pour in the 2 kg of sauerkraut into the pot. This amount ensures a distinctive tangy flavor characteristic for a sauerkraut soup.
7. Simmer to Develop Flavors: Lower the heat and allow the soup to simmer gently for about 2 hours.
8. Seperate the Veal: After the broth has simmered, remove the veal from the pot and separate it from the bones.
9. Chop the Veal: Chop the veal into small pieces and return it to the soup to continue simmering for flavor infusion.
10. Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, allowing the soup to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld together perfectly.
11. Finish and Serve: Present the soup hot, optionally topped with freshly chopped onions or herbs for added freshness.

Tips

• Veal Substitute: If veal is unavailable, beef shank works well as a substitute.
• Pork Alternatives: You can substitute pork with chicken for a lighter version.
• Enhance Flavor: For added depth, include a few bay leaves or caraway seeds while simmering.
• Storage Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day; store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutritions

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 28 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chopped chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili powder for some heat.
• Vegan Option: Replace meat with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all packaged ingredients, especially the sauerkraut, are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairing: This soup pairs well with crusty bread or rye bread.
• Garnish: Top with fresh dill or parsley and a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Best Places

1. Katz's Delicatessen - Known for its savory dishes. Location: 205 E Houston St, New York, USA.
2. Spicy Village - Offers a unique take on sauerkraut dishes. Location: 68 Forsyth St, New York, USA.
3. Galata Bistro - Features various heartwarming European stews. Location: 827 Santa Cruz Ave, Menlo Park, USA.
4. Borsch - Renowned for Eastern European soups. Location: 49 Marchmont St, London, UK.
5. Berlin Currywurst - Famous for its flavorful broths. Location: Wittenbergplatz 5-6, Berlin, Germany.
6. Vikings Seafood Buffet - Offers international soups. Location: MOA, Manila, Philippines.
7. Fermentery Form - Specializes in fermented dishes. Location: 1601 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, USA.
8. Pastrami Queen - Known for its savory meats and soups. Location: 1125 Lexington Ave, New York, USA.
9. Nomad Cookery - Delivers traditional comfort foods. Location: 895 11th Ave, New York, USA.
10. L’atelier de Joel Robuchon - Renowned for its gourmet offerings. Location: 13-15 W 32nd St, New York, USA.