Sauerkraut and sausage. The pairing is classic, comforting, and culturally significant. But even the most perfect duo needs a supporting cast. Deciding what to serve alongside this dynamic duo can elevate a simple meal into a truly memorable dining experience. This article explores the best side dishes to complement sauerkraut and sausage, covering a wide range of flavors, textures, and culinary traditions. We’ll delve into traditional pairings, explore modern twists, and provide guidance on creating a well-balanced and delicious meal.
Embracing the Classics: Traditional Pairings
Some pairings are iconic for a reason. They work exceptionally well together, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. These classic side dishes have stood the test of time and continue to be popular choices for serving with sauerkraut and sausage.
Potatoes: A Versatile Companion
Potatoes, in their myriad forms, are arguably the most popular side dish for sauerkraut and sausage. Their earthy flavor and satisfying texture provide a perfect counterpoint to the tangy sauerkraut and savory sausage.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Comfort
Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting and familiar accompaniment. The richness of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the acidity of the sauerkraut, while the smooth texture provides a soothing counterpoint to the sausage’s bite. Consider adding roasted garlic or herbs like chives or parsley to elevate your mashed potatoes.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy Perfection
Roasting potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a wonderfully crispy exterior. Toss them with olive oil, herbs like rosemary or thyme, and seasonings for a flavorful and textural delight. The crispy potatoes provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softer textures of the sauerkraut and sausage.
Potato Salad: A Tangy Twist
German potato salad, with its tangy vinegar-based dressing and often containing bacon, offers a unique and complementary flavor profile. The acidity of the salad mirrors the sauerkraut’s tang, while the bacon adds another layer of savory goodness. American potato salad, with its creamy mayonnaise base, can also be a delicious option, providing a different but equally satisfying contrast to the meal.
Bread: The Perfect Vessel
A good loaf of bread is essential for sopping up the delicious juices from the sauerkraut and sausage. It provides a textural contrast and a satisfying carbohydrate element to the meal.
Rye Bread: A Classic Choice
Rye bread, with its slightly sour flavor and dense texture, is a classic pairing for sauerkraut and sausage. Its robust flavor stands up well to the strong flavors of the main dish. Look for a good quality rye bread with a slightly chewy crust.
Pretzels: Salty Satisfaction
Soft pretzels, especially the large, salted variety, are another excellent option. Their salty exterior and chewy interior provide a delightful contrast to the tangy sauerkraut and savory sausage. They can also be served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as mustard or cheese sauce, to further enhance the flavor profile.
Dumplings: A Hearty Addition
Dumplings, whether potato dumplings, bread dumplings, or even spaetzle, add a hearty and satisfying element to the meal. They are particularly well-suited for soaking up the juices from the sauerkraut.
Potato Dumplings: Pillowy Goodness
Potato dumplings, often made with mashed potatoes and flour, offer a soft and pillowy texture. They are typically boiled or steamed and can be served with a variety of sauces or gravies.
Bread Dumplings: A Rustic Charm
Bread dumplings, made with stale bread, milk, and eggs, offer a more rustic and substantial texture. They are often flavored with herbs and spices and can be baked or boiled.
Beyond the Classics: Exploring Flavorful Alternatives
While traditional pairings are always a safe bet, there are plenty of other delicious side dishes that can complement sauerkraut and sausage. These alternatives offer a broader range of flavors and textures, allowing you to create a more diverse and exciting meal.
Vegetables: Adding Color and Nutrients
Adding vegetables to your meal not only enhances its nutritional value but also provides a welcome contrast in flavor and texture.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet and Earthy
Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, offer a sweet and earthy counterpoint to the tangy sauerkraut and savory sausage. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates a slightly caramelized exterior.
Green Beans: A Fresh and Crisp Option
Green beans, whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, provide a fresh and crisp element to the meal. They can be seasoned with garlic, herbs, or a touch of lemon juice to enhance their flavor.
Cabbage: Enhancing the Experience
While you already have sauerkraut, consider other cabbage preparations! Red cabbage, braised with apples and balsamic vinegar, provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the sauerkraut. It adds another layer of complexity to the meal.
Salads: A Light and Refreshing Choice
A light and refreshing salad can help to balance out the richness of the sauerkraut and sausage. Look for salads with tangy dressings or ingredients that complement the flavors of the main dish.
Cucumber Salad: Cool and Crisp
A simple cucumber salad, with a vinegar-based dressing and perhaps a touch of dill, offers a cool and refreshing contrast to the sauerkraut and sausage.
Apple and Cabbage Slaw: A Tangy Crunch
A slaw made with shredded cabbage, apples, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing can provide a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
Grains: Adding Substance and Texture
Adding grains such as barley or farro can contribute texture and satiety to your meal.
Barley: A Nutty and Chewy Grain
Barley makes a delicious and wholesome side. Its nutty flavor and chewy texture provide a satisfying counterpoint to the sauerkraut and sausage. It can be cooked in broth or water and seasoned with herbs and spices.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Meal
Creating a perfectly balanced meal with sauerkraut and sausage is all about considering the overall flavor profile and texture. Here are some tips to help you create a truly memorable dining experience.
Consider the Sausage Type
The type of sausage you choose will influence the best side dish pairings. For example, a spicy sausage might benefit from a cooling side dish, while a milder sausage can be paired with bolder flavors.
Balance Flavors and Textures
Aim for a balance of flavors and textures in your meal. Consider including something tangy, something creamy, something crispy, and something savory.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
The best way to discover your favorite pairings is to experiment. Try different side dishes and see what you like best.
Preparation is Key
Consider how much time you have to prepare your meal. Simple side dishes can be a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, while more elaborate dishes can be saved for special occasions.
Seasoning Matters
Pay attention to the seasoning of your side dishes. Seasoning can significantly impact the overall flavor of the meal. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
Presentation also plays a role in the overall dining experience. Arrange your sauerkraut and sausage artfully on the plate, alongside your chosen side dishes. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for added visual appeal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika can also add a touch of elegance. Consider serving the meal with a complementary beverage, such as a crisp white wine or a refreshing beer.
Sauerkraut and Sausage Side Dish Combinations
To help inspire you, here are a few side dish combination ideas:
- Sauerkraut and Bratwurst with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Carrots
- Sauerkraut and Kielbasa with Rye Bread and German Potato Salad
- Sauerkraut and Italian Sausage with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans
- Sauerkraut and Spicy Sausage with Cucumber Salad and Barley
Ultimately, the best side dishes for sauerkraut and sausage are the ones that you and your guests enjoy the most. By considering the flavors, textures, and overall balance of your meal, you can create a truly satisfying and memorable dining experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite pairings. Happy cooking!
What are some classic side dishes that complement sauerkraut and sausage?
Classic side dishes often lean into the hearty and comforting nature of sauerkraut and sausage. Think of dishes that offer contrasting textures and flavors, but still feel substantial enough to stand alongside the main course. Mashed potatoes, for example, provide a creamy and comforting base, while roasted root vegetables offer a sweet and earthy counterpoint to the tanginess of the sauerkraut and the richness of the sausage.
Other excellent choices include German potato salad (warm and vinegary), spaetzle (a soft egg noodle), or even just crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious juices. These traditional sides not only pair well with the flavors but also contribute to a complete and satisfying meal that evokes a sense of comfort and familiarity, often associated with German or Eastern European cuisine.
Can I pair sauerkraut and sausage with something other than potatoes?
Absolutely! While potatoes are a common pairing, many other options work beautifully. Consider dishes that offer a lighter or more vibrant counterpoint to the savory richness of the sauerkraut and sausage. For example, a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a welcome burst of freshness, cutting through the heavier flavors. Similarly, steamed green beans or asparagus offer a healthy and flavorful alternative to starchier sides.
Another excellent option is roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts is a wonderful complement to the sauerkraut, and the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that ties everything together. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and preparations to find your perfect combination; the possibilities are endless.
What are some good vegetable side dishes to serve with sauerkraut and sausage?
Vegetable side dishes can balance the richness of sauerkraut and sausage with freshness and added nutrients. Options like roasted carrots with honey and thyme bring sweetness and earthiness to the plate, complementing the savory flavors. Green beans sautéed with garlic and lemon offer a bright and crisp counterpoint, while a simple cucumber and dill salad adds a cool and refreshing element.
For heartier options, consider roasted root vegetables such as parsnips and sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tanginess of sauerkraut. Alternatively, braised red cabbage is a traditional German side that enhances the sauerkraut experience with similar, yet distinct, flavors. A medley of colorful vegetables provides visual appeal and diverse nutritional benefits to the meal.
Are there any starch-based side dishes besides potatoes that go well with sauerkraut and sausage?
Yes, beyond potatoes, several starch-based side dishes can perfectly complement sauerkraut and sausage. Spaetzle, a type of German egg noodle, is a classic choice known for its soft texture and ability to soak up flavorful sauces. Polenta, either creamy or grilled, provides a comforting and subtly sweet backdrop to the savory dish. Consider the preparation style to ensure it harmonizes with the overall meal.
Another excellent option is dumplings, whether traditional bread dumplings or potato dumplings. Their hearty texture and mild flavor make them a great vessel for absorbing the flavors of the sauerkraut and sausage. Alternatively, a simple rice pilaf, cooked with broth and herbs, can offer a lighter starch-based option. Each of these sides provides a different texture and flavor profile, allowing you to customize your meal to your preferences.
What kind of bread goes best with sauerkraut and sausage?
The best bread to pair with sauerkraut and sausage should be sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy flavors and textures of the dish. A crusty rye bread is a classic choice, offering a slightly sour and earthy flavor that complements the sauerkraut and sausage perfectly. Sourdough bread also works well, providing a similar tanginess and a satisfying chew.
Alternatively, a hearty German bread, such as pumpernickel or Bauernbrot, would be an excellent choice. These breads are typically dense and flavorful, with a slightly sweet undertone that balances the savory flavors of the meal. Ensure the bread is sliced thickly enough to avoid falling apart when used for soaking up the juices from the sauerkraut and sausage.
What are some good sauce options to serve alongside sauerkraut and sausage?
Several sauce options can enhance the flavor profile of sauerkraut and sausage. A simple mustard sauce, made with Dijon mustard, honey, and a touch of vinegar, adds a tangy and slightly sweet element that complements the savory dish. Creamy horseradish sauce provides a spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the sausage, while a traditional brown gravy adds depth and warmth.
Another excellent option is applesauce. Its sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the sourness of the sauerkraut and the saltiness of the sausage. For a more complex flavor, consider a beer cheese sauce or a caraway seed sauce. The choice depends on your personal preference and the specific flavors you want to highlight in the meal.
Are there any lighter side dish options that won’t weigh down the meal?
Yes, if you’re looking for lighter side dish options to balance the richness of sauerkraut and sausage, consider fresh salads and vibrant vegetables. A simple cucumber salad with dill and vinegar offers a refreshing and tangy counterpoint. A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a healthy dose of greens and a burst of freshness. A slaw, made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing, adds crunch and brightness.
Alternatively, consider grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Their smoky flavor and tender texture make them a delightful addition to the meal without being overly heavy. Steamed or lightly sautéed asparagus or green beans are also excellent choices, providing a nutritious and flavorful side dish that complements the sauerkraut and sausage without overwhelming the palate.