Sauerkraut and Oat Soup

This hearty sauerkraut and oat soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Combining the unique tang of sauerkraut with the rich texture of oats, it creates a satisfying meal that's both nourishing and flavorful. Dried apricots lend a mild sweetness, while garlic adds a robust aroma, making each spoonful a delightful experience. This dish requires minimal effort but rewards you with complex, savory tastes. The slow cooking process ensures all the ingredients meld together beautifully, enhancing their individual characteristics. Ideal for those who enjoy rustic, home-cooked meals, this soup is both simple and sophisticated. It's a perfect choice after a long day, providing warmth and sustenance. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers straightforward steps and a delicious outcome. Try it with different variations to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Sauerkraut: 1/2 liter
Oat flakes: 5 tablespoons
Dried apricots: A handful
Garlic: 4 cloves

Spices

Allspice: 5 pieces
Sugar: To taste
Salt: To taste
Bay leaf: 1

Other

Water: 1/2 liter

Preparation Time

Total: 5 hours
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: Approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare your ingredients: Finely chop the garlic cloves and quarter the dried apricots. Keep sauerkraut, oats, and spices ready.
Boil initial ingredients: In a large pot, add the water and bring to a boil. Add sauerkraut, oats, garlic, and dried apricots.
Season the mixture: Introduce allspice, a pinch of sugar, and salt to the pot. Toss in the bay leaf to enrich the flavors.
Simmer gently: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and give the mixture a good stir.
Prepare for slow cooking: Transfer the pot to a preheated wood-fired oven. Alternatively, use a conventional oven set at a low temperature.
Slow cook: Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup cook slowly for about 5 hours. This allows all the flavors to meld perfectly.
Patience is key: During this time, the oats will absorb the flavors, the apricots will soften, and the garlic will impart its fragrance throughout the soup.
Halfway check: After around 2 hours, check if more water or seasoning is needed. Ensure there’s no sticking at the bottom.
Final hour: As you near the final hour, a rich aroma should fill the kitchen, signaling the readiness of the dish.
Cooling phase: Once cooked, let the soup cool slightly before serving. This enhances the texture and taste.
Test for seasoning: Adjust sugar or salt if needed to balance out the tanginess of the sauerkraut.
Optional garnishing: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley just before serving for extra freshness.
Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls and enjoy while it's warm.
Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Reheating: For reheating, add a splash of water if it thickens too much before gently warming in a pot.
Serving suggestion: Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Save time tip: Use pre-cooked oats to reduce cooking time.
Vegan option: This dish is naturally vegan but always check sauerkraut brand for added non-vegan ingredients.

Tips

Substitute steel-cut oats if you prefer a chewier texture.
No dried apricots? Use raisins or dried cranberries for a different sweetness.
For added protein, consider stirring in cooked chickpeas or beans.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: Approximately 200
Protein: 5g
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 40g

Variations

Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicier version.
Vegetarian version: Enrich with vegetable stock instead of just water.
Gluten-Free: Ensure oats are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a thick slice of rye bread or crackers.
Sprinkle with fresh dill or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Best Places

Sofia’s Kitchen - Offers a beautiful rustic interpretation of sauerkraut dishes. Location: 14 Elm St, Berlin, Germany.
Nordic Nibbles - Known for their take on traditional dishes with a modern twist. Location: 33 River Rd, Stockholm, Sweden.
Rustic Harvest - Features hearty soups in a cozy setting. Location: 22 Park Ave, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Cabbage & Oats Bistro - Specializes in sauerkraut and grain-based dishes. Location: 45 Maple St, Prague, Czech Republic.
Cozy Nook Eatery - Offers a comforting selection of soups and stews. Location: 50 Olive Ln, Budapest, Hungary.
Green Spoon - Focuses on vegan and organic interpretations of classic meals. Location: 78 Willow Blvd, Warsaw, Poland.
The Warm Pot Tavern - Ideal for warming recipes in a welcoming atmosphere. Location: 80 Birch St, Vienna, Austria.
Oat & Kraut Corner - Serves an extensive menu for sauerkraut enthusiasts. Location: 96 Pine St, Zurich, Switzerland.
Soul-Hearty Kitchen - Known for soul-warming dishes that utilize local, fresh ingredients. Location: 101 Elm Way, Dublin, Ireland.
Golden Bowl Café - Combines diverse flavors with traditional inspirations. Location: 105 Chestnut Dr, London, UK.