Perfectly Tender Pork and Sauerkraut Recipe for Every Occasion!

Eating pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day is a tradition steeped in symbolism. It’s thought to bring good luck, prosperity, and a fresh start to the year ahead. The origin lies in European customs—particularly German and Eastern European communities—where pork is associated with progress (pigs root forward as they eat) and sauerkraut represents wealth due to its green, shredded appearance resembling money.

This comforting dish, often served family-style, carries with it a sense of nostalgia, bringing loved ones together to celebrate beginnings over a hearty and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless pork loin or pork shoulder
• 1 (32-ounce) jar or bag of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (optional, adds a touch of sweetness)
• 1 cup apple cider or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork:
   • Pat the pork dry with paper towels and season all sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork:
   • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
3. Assemble in Slow Cooker:
   • Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker.
   • Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped apple (if using), and sauerkraut around and over the pork.
   • Sprinkle the brown sugar and caraway seeds (if using) over the top.
   • Pour the apple cider or chicken broth into the slow cooker.
4. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding.
   • Stir the sauerkraut mixture in the slow cooker to combine the flavors.
   • Serve the pork alongside or atop the sauerkraut mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the tanginess of the sauerkraut.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.
• Applesauce: A traditional side that adds a sweet contrast to the savory dish.

Tips:

• Rinsing Sauerkraut: Rinsing the sauerkraut reduces its sourness. For a stronger tangy flavor, you can skip this step.
• Apple Addition: Incorporating an apple adds a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
• Caraway Seeds: These seeds add a distinctive flavor typical in traditional recipes but can be omitted if not preferred.

Cultural Significance:

In many cultures, especially among Eastern Europeans and Americans of German descent, pork and sauerkraut is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition. Consuming this dish on New Year’s Day is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. The pig’s forward rooting behavior symbolizes progress, while the abundance of sauerkraut represents wealth.

Conclusion

This pork and sauerkraut recipe is a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Its simplicity and cultural significance add to its charm, making it a dish worth sharing with family and friends.