Are you looking for a delicious and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This sauerkraut and ground beef recipe is a hearty, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and nutritious, showcasing the best of simple, delicious dishes. Get ready to impress your family with this easy recipe that's packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried caraway seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (16 ounce) bag sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, caraway seeds, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Add the drained sauerkraut, beef broth, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauerkraut is tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and serve: Season the sauerkraut and ground beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This hearty dish is excellent served on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sauerkraut and Ground Beef:
- Don't overcook the sauerkraut: Overcooked sauerkraut can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly crisp.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices to suit your preferences. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a lovely depth of flavor.
- Use good quality sauerkraut: The quality of your sauerkraut will significantly impact the final dish. Look for brands with minimal added ingredients.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Add some sausage: For extra flavor and richness, add 1/2 pound of your favorite sausage to the skillet along with the ground beef.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian sausage for a hearty vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
This sauerkraut and ground beef recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a perfect example of how delicious food recipes can be both satisfying and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals or families. Enjoy!