Sauerkraut and Vegetable Pie

This sauerkraut and vegetable pie is an aromatic and flavorful dish, perfect for those who enjoy a savory meal with rich, earthy undertones. The recipe combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the sweetness of onion and tomato, creating a harmonious balance. The addition of spices like rosemary, cloves, and bay leaves elevates the flavor profile, making it an unforgettable dining experience. It's a warming dish that will keep you satisfied, especially during colder months. You can prepare it with butter, margarine, or even bacon fat for added flavor. The pie not only serves as a main course but also pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. This versatile dish can be a fantastic choice for family gatherings or solo meals alike. With relatively simple ingredients, this pie brings out complex flavors that will linger on your palate. Moreover, this dish encourages culinary creativity, as you can adapt the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 kg sauerkraut
• 3 medium onions
• 1/2 paprika
• 3-4 medium tomatoes
• 200 g butter or margarine or bacon fat

Spices

• 10-15 whole black peppercorns
• 5 cloves
• 4 bay leaves
• Rosemary
• 100 g sugar
• Salt

Preparation Time

180 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. **Heat** a pot and **add** butter or your choice of fat. Let it melt completely before proceeding.
2. **Slice** the onions thinly and **add** them to the pot. **Sauté** the onions until they turn golden brown, enhancing their natural sweetness.
3. **Chop** the paprika and **add** it to the onions. **Cook** for a few more minutes until the paprika softens.
4. **Dice** the tomatoes and **add** them to the pot. **Simmer** for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
5. **Add** the sauerkraut into the pot, along with the bay leaves and black peppercorns. **Pour** in enough water to cover the ingredients and **bring** to a gentle simmer.
6. **Cover** the pot partially and **cook** for approximately 45 minutes to an hour, allowing the sauerkraut to become tender.
7. Once the sauerkraut is partially soft, **add** the cloves, salt, sugar, and rosemary. Adjust these ingredients to your taste preference.
8. **Continue** simmering the mixture, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for the remaining time. The longer you cook, the more developed the flavors will become.
9. If the mixture looks dry, **add** a bit more water and maintain the simmer until the sauerkraut is fully softened.
10. **Remove** from heat and **allow** the mixture to cool slightly if you plan to use it as a pie filling.
11. For the pie, prepare a basic pastry crust, roll it out, and **fill** it evenly with the sauerkraut mixture.
12. **Preheat** the oven to 180°C (350°F).
13. **Cover** the pie with a pastry lid, crimping the edges to seal, and put a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
14. **Bake** for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy.
15. Once baked, **let** the pie rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips

• For a **vegetarian-friendly** option, stick to butter or margarine.
• Adjust the **spices** according to your palate—more cloves for a bolder flavor, or rosemary for earthiness.
• If you prefer a **crisper base**, pre-bake the pie crust before filling it.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• **Add** grated cheese on top before baking for a creamy finish.
• Use whole-grain flour for a **healthier crust**.
• Replace paprika with **bell peppers** for a sweeter touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a **fresh green salad** for a balanced meal.
• Serve with **mashed potatoes** for a comforting side.
• Enjoy with a dollop of **sour cream** on the side.

Best Places

• Borsalino - A cozy spot known for its comforting European dishes. Location: Via Tortona 2, Milan, Italy.
• Katz's Delicatessen - Legendary for its robust flavors and hearty dishes. Location: 205 E Houston St, New York, USA.
• Zum Schwarzen Kameel - Offers historic ambiance and delightful Austrian fare. Location: Bognergasse 5, Vienna, Austria.
• Fischer’s - A grand café where classic recipes are celebrated. Location: 50 Marylebone High St, London, UK.
• Le Bistro Gourmand - Known for its authentic European specialties. Location: 93 Rue David Johnston, Lyon, France.
• Café de Flore - An iconic venue for those craving traditional flavors. Location: 172 Blvd Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Lindenhofkeller - Offers traditional delights in a charming setting. Location: Pfalzgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
• The Baltic - Simplicity and tradition in a vibrant atmosphere. Location: 74 Blackfriars Road, London, UK.
• Ten Degrees - Urban haunt with diverse offerings. Location: 121 St Marks Place, New York, USA.
• L’As du Fallafel - Casual eatery known for fusion and flavor. Location: 34 Rue des Rosiers, Paris, France.