Discover the mouthwatering fusion of flavors with our irresistible pork and sauerkraut recipe. This delectable dish combines tender pork cuts with tangy sauerkraut, creating a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this simple yet impressive recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to savor the perfect balance of savory and sour in every bite!
Instant Pot Pork & Sauerkraut Recipe
This Instant Pot Pork & Sauerkraut recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal on New Year’s Day or any time of year. In Germany, it is believed that eating pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day brings good luck and prosperity for the coming year. This recipe uses store-bought sauerkraut, but you can also make your own using cabbage and salt.
To make this recipe, you will need a pork roast (such as a shoulder, leg, or loin), salt, black pepper, cooking oil, sauerkraut, apple juice or chicken stock, rosemary (fresh or dried), and an apple. The first step is to sear the pork roast on all sides using the Saute function of the Instant Pot. Then, remove the roast and deglaze the pot with apple juice or broth. Return the pork roast to the pot and add vegetables and apples around the edges. Finally, place the sauerkraut on top of the roast.
Cook the pork roast on high pressure for 1 hour (adjusting cooking time for larger roasts) and allow it to naturally release pressure. Check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it reaches at least 165 degrees F. If needed, cook for additional time until tender and easily pulled apart with a fork. Serve with gravy made from the flavorful broth.
Why Use An Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that can greatly reduce cooking time and enhance the flavors of your meals. It is especially beneficial for making dishes like pork and sauerkraut, as it helps to tenderize tough cuts of meat and infuse them with delicious flavors.
One of the main advantages of using an Instant Pot is its ability to pressure cook food. This cooking method uses steam and high pressure to quickly cook ingredients, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve the same results as traditional slow cooking methods in a fraction of the time.
Additionally, the Instant Pot offers a variety of functions, including sautéing, searing, steaming, and even baking. This means you can brown your pork roast before pressure cooking it, adding depth and richness to the final dish. The versatility of the Instant Pot allows you to experiment with different cooking techniques and create a wide range of recipes.
What You’ll Need
– Pork roast (such as pork shoulder, pork leg, or pork loin)
– Salt and black pepper for seasoning
– Cooking oil
– Sauerkraut (store-bought or homemade)
– Apple juice or chicken stock
– Fresh or dried rosemary
– Apple, peeled and sliced
1. Season the pork roast with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat cooking oil in the Instant Pot on saute mode. Brown all sides of the pork roast.
3. Remove the roast from the Instant Pot and set aside.
4. Add apple juice or chicken stock to the Instant Pot and whisk the bottom to remove any browned bits.
5. Return the pork roast to the Instant Pot and add sliced apples around the edges.
6. Place sauerkraut on top of the roast.
7. Cook on pressure cook setting for 1 hour (adjust time for larger roasts).
8. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
9. Check the internal temperature of the meat with an instant-read thermometer (should be at least 165 degrees F) and ensure it is tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
10. If needed, cook for an additional 10-30 minutes or until desired tenderness is reached.
11. Optional: For a fork-tender roast, cook for 60 to 70 minutes and place directly into pot without using a trivet.
Serve your Instant Pot Pork & Sauerkraut hot with some of the flavorful broth as gravy if desired. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish as a New Year’s tradition or anytime during fall or winter!
How To Make Pork & Sauerkraut
This recipe for Pork & Sauerkraut is simple and delicious. Here’s how to make it:
1. Begin by searing all sides of the pork roast. If using an Instant Pot, use the Saute function. Otherwise, sear the meat on the stove and transfer to a pot or slow cooker.
2. Remove the roast from the Instant Pot and pour in apple juice or broth to deglaze the bottom of the pan. Whisk to remove any browned bits.
3. Return the pork roast to the Instant Pot and add vegetables and sliced apples around the edges. Place sauerkraut on top of the roast.
4. Cook for 1 hour (for a 2lb pork roast) on Pressure Cook setting, allowing for natural release of pressure.
5. Once cooked, check internal temperature of meat with an instant-read thermometer – it should be at least 165 degrees F and tender enough to pull apart with a fork. If needed, cook for another 10-30 minutes.
6. Serve with gravy made from flavorful broth used for cooking and enjoy!
This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker or oven, adjusting cooking times accordingly. Whether you’re making it for New Year’s Day or any other occasion, this Pork & Sauerkraut dish is sure to bring good luck and great flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does sauerkraut keep in the refrigerator?
Sauerkraut can stay fresh for 4 to 6 months after opening if properly sealed and stored. However, if it starts to smell or has an unusual texture or color, it should be discarded immediately.
2. Can I make my own sauerkraut?
Yes, you can make your own sauerkraut using cabbage and salt. The fermentation process takes at least two weeks. However, store-bought sauerkraut is a convenient option if you prefer to save time.
3. What are the health benefits of sauerkraut?
Sauerkraut is a lacto-fermented vegetable and contains beneficial probiotics that promote digestive health. It is also a good source of fiber.
4. Can I use pork chops instead of a roast?
Yes, you can use pork chops in this recipe. However, the cooking time will be significantly reduced. Thick bone-in chops should be cooked for about 15 minutes, while chops under 1″ thick only need around 8 minutes.
5. Can I cook the roast from frozen?
Yes, you can still cook the roast from frozen in the Instant Pot. Skip the browning step but season it before cooking for 75 minutes in the pressure cooker.
6.Can I adjust the cooking time for boneless country-style ribs?
If using boneless country-style ribs, they will require less cooking time than a full roast. Cook them for approximately 40 minutes in the Instant Pot if they are around 3″ thick.
7.Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by cooking on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, depending on the size of your pork roast.
8.What pressure setting should I use in the Instant Pot?
For this recipe, it is recommended to cook on high pressure for the specified cooking time. Medium pressure may not yield the same level of tenderness.
9.Can I add caraway seeds to the sauerkraut?
Yes, adding caraway seeds to the sauerkraut can enhance its flavor. Feel free to include them according to your taste preferences.
10.What is the cooking time for a bone-in pork shoulder?
For a bone-in pork shoulder, you can follow the general rule of 15 minutes per pound. If your roast weighs 3 pounds, set the Instant Pot to pressure cook for 45 minutes.
Do I have to sear the pork before cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to sear the pork roast before cooking. Searing helps to brown the outside of the meat and adds flavor to the dish. You can easily sear the pork roast in the Instant Pot using the Saute function, or you can do it on the stove and then transfer it to the pot or slow cooker.
You can make your own sauerkraut using cabbage and salt, following a fermentation process that takes at least two weeks. However, store-bought sauerkraut works just as well and saves time. Choose a sauerkraut brand that you enjoy and find flavorful. Sauerkraut is a lacto-fermented vegetable that offers immense health benefits and is a good source of fiber for digestive health.
The recipe suggests using apple juice or chicken stock instead of water to add more flavor to the dish. Apple juice pairs well with pork and adds a slight sweetness to balance out the flavors. The liquid is necessary in pressure cooking as it helps build steam and aid in pressurizing the pot.
If you prefer not to use sauerkraut, you can still make this pork roast recipe without it. The cooking process remains the same, but you won’t have the tangy flavor of sauerkraut infused into the dish. You can explore other recipes for pork roasts without sauerkraut if desired.
If properly sealed after each use, sauerkraut can stay fresh in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 months after opening. However, if it starts to develop an unusual smell, texture, or color, it is best to discard it immediately.
Why is sauerkraut a New Year’s tradition?
Sauerkraut is a traditional dish eaten on New Year’s Day in Germany because it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the new year. According to the German Food Guide, it is said that eating sauerkraut on New Year’s Day will bless you with “as much goodness and money as the number of shreds of cabbage in the pot of sauerkraut.” This tradition has been passed down through generations and is still celebrated today.
The health benefits of sauerkraut are also a reason why it is popular on New Year’s Day. Sauerkraut is a lacto-fermented vegetable, which means it contains beneficial bacteria that promote digestive health. It is also a good source of fiber. Making your own sauerkraut at home requires only cabbage and salt, but it takes at least two weeks for the fermentation process. Store-bought sauerkraut can be used as a convenient alternative.
Whether you’re following the tradition for good luck or simply looking for a hearty and soul-warming dish to enjoy during fall or winter, pork and sauerkraut is a delicious choice. The recipe provided combines tender pork roast with flavorful sauerkraut, apple juice or chicken stock for added moisture and flavor, and aromatic herbs like rosemary. The Instant Pot method makes cooking this dish quick and easy, resulting in perfectly cooked meat that falls apart easily.
Overall, sauerkraut has become a beloved New Year’s tradition due to its supposed ability to bring luck and prosperity in the new year. Its health benefits and delicious taste make it a popular choice for those looking to start their year off on a positive note.
How long does sauerkraut keep in the refrigerator?
Sauerkraut can stay fresh in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 months after opening if it is sealed properly after each use. However, if you notice any strange smell, texture, or color, it is best to throw it away immediately as it may have gone bad.
Instant Pot Pork Roast & Sauerkraut Recipe
This Instant Pot Pork & Sauerkraut recipe is a quick and easy meal that is full of flavor. It’s a traditional dish in Germany, believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year. Whether you’re serving it for New Year’s or just looking for a hearty and soul-warming dish, this recipe won’t disappoint.
To make this recipe, you’ll need a pork roast (such as a shoulder), salt, black pepper, cooking oil, sauerkraut (store-bought or homemade), apple juice or chicken stock, rosemary, and sliced apples. The first step is to sear the pork roast on all sides to add flavor. Then, add the apple juice or broth to deglaze the pot. Return the pork roast to the pot and add the vegetables and apples around it. Finally, top with sauerkraut and cook on high pressure for 1 hour (adjusting cooking time for larger roasts).
The result is a tender and flavorful pork roast with tangy sauerkraut. You can serve it sliced or shredded, depending on your preference. The sauerkraut adds depth of flavor and promotes digestive health. This recipe can be made in various ways – Instant Pot, slow cooker, stovetop, or oven – with slight adjustments in cooking time.
Ingredients
– Pork roast (such as pork shoulder or pork loin)
– Salt and black pepper
– Cooking oil
– Sauerkraut (homemade or store-bought)
– Apple juice or chicken stock
– Fresh or dried rosemary
– Apple, peeled and sliced
The ingredients for this Instant Pot Pork & Sauerkraut recipe include a pork roast, salt, black pepper, cooking oil, sauerkraut, apple juice or chicken stock, rosemary (fresh or dried), and an apple (peeled and sliced). The recipe suggests using a pork shoulder for the roast but mentions that you can also use a pork leg or loin. It emphasizes the use of store-bought sauerkraut for convenience but provides a recipe to make your own if desired. Additionally, it recommends using apple juice in the recipe to enhance flavor and adds that any type of apple can be used.
Instructions
Instructions:
1. Begin by searing all sides of the pork roast. If using an Instant Pot, use the Saute function to brown the meat directly in the pot. Otherwise, sear the meat on the stove and then transfer it to the pot or slow cooker.
2. Remove the roast from the Instant Pot and pour in apple juice or broth. Whisk the bottom of the pan to remove any browned bits.
3. Return the pork roast to the Instant Pot and add vegetables and sliced apples around the edges. Place sauerkraut on top of the roast.
4. Cook for 1 hour on Pressure Cook setting if using a 2lb pork roast. If your roast is larger, adjust cooking time accordingly.
5. Allow pressure to naturally release before opening lid. Check internal temperature of meat, which should be at least 165 degrees F and tender enough to pull apart with a fork.
6. If necessary, cook for another 10-30 minutes for desired tenderness.
7. Optional: For a fork-tender roast that falls apart like shredded pork, cook for 60-70 minutes and place roast directly into pot instead of on a trivet.
8. Serve with gravy made from flavorful broth used in cooking.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on method used (Instant Pot, Crockpot, Stovetop or Oven). Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Enjoy your delicious pork & sauerkraut meal!
Equipment Needed
– Instant Pot or pressure cooker
– Cutting board
– Knife
– Whisk
– Measuring cup
– Measuring spoons
– Tongs or spatula
– Instant-read thermometer (optional)
– Serving platter or plates
Notes
– Sauerkraut can stay fresh in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 months after opening if properly sealed.
– Store-bought sauerkraut is a convenient option, but you can also make your own using cabbage and salt.
– Eating pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day is a German tradition believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
– The Instant Pot is a useful kitchen appliance that cuts down on cooking time and produces tender meat.
– This recipe uses a pork shoulder roast, but you can also use pork leg or loin. Cooking times may vary.
– Season the roast with salt and black pepper before browning it in the Instant Pot or on the stove.
– Use apple juice or chicken stock instead of water in the Instant Pot for added flavor.
– Rosemary adds an earthy taste to the dish, and sliced apples complement the pork well.
– Cook the pork roast with sauerkraut for 1 hour on Pressure Cook mode, adjusting cooking time for larger roasts.
– The meat should be tender and have an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If not, cook for longer.
– Searing the outside of the roast adds flavor to both the meat and broth used for cooking. Consider making gravy from the broth.
– You can make this recipe using various methods such as Instant Pot, Crockpot, stovetop, or oven. Cooking times will vary accordingly.
– If using frozen pork roast, skip browning it and adjust cooking time in the Instant Pot to 75 minutes.
– Feel free to modify the recipe by adding more apples, onions, carrots, or rosemary according to taste preferences.
– Serve with sides like smashed red potatoes or top with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for added flavor.
– Country-style ribs will require shorter cooking time than a full roast. For boneless ribs around 3″ thick, cook for 40 minutes in the Instant Pot.
– Caraway seeds can be added for extra flavor.
– In a slow cooker, cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, depending on the size of the roast.
– For a bone-in pork shoulder, use the rule of thumb of 15 minutes per pound. A 3-pound roast would require 45 minutes of pressure cooking time.
Nutrition
This Instant Pot Pork & Sauerkraut recipe is a delicious and flavorful meal that can bring good luck and prosperity in the new year. It’s made with pork roast, sauerkraut, apple juice or chicken stock, and seasoned with salt, black pepper, and rosemary. The sauerkraut is a lacto-fermented vegetable that offers immense health benefits including being a good source of fiber and promoting digestive health.
The nutrition content of this dish will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. However, pork is a good source of protein, vitamins B6 and B12, zinc, phosphorus, and selenium. Sauerkraut is low in calories and fat but high in fiber and various vitamins such as vitamin C.
It’s important to note that the cooking method (Instant Pot, slow cooker) and any additional ingredients used (such as oil for browning the pork) may contribute to the overall nutrition profile of the dish. To obtain accurate nutrition information for this recipe, it’s recommended to use a reliable online nutrition calculator or consult with a registered dietitian.
In conclusion, this pork and sauerkraut recipe offers a delicious and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare. The combination of tender pork and tangy sauerkraut creates a perfect balance of taste. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s palate.
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