The Healthy Hot Dog: Sauerkraut Sausage Dogs

Sauerkraut Sausage Dogs offer a tantalizing combination of flavors and are a timeless culinary classic loved by many for their simplicity and taste. The dish typically consists of a grilled or steamed sausage, commonly a frankfurter or bratwurst, nestled in a warm, soft hot dog bun, and topped generously with sauerkraut.

The tangy and slightly sour taste of sauerkraut, which is fermented cabbage, pairs beautifully with the savory and sometimes spiced flavor of the sausage, delivering a unique, robust taste. This meal is often enjoyed at backyard barbecues, baseball games, and family gatherings, showcasing its popularity across various events and locales.

To prepare the sauerkraut, it’s usually simmered with ingredients like caraway seeds, onions, and sometimes apples or beer to enhance its flavor. The sausage can be cooked to preference, whether it’s grilled for a smoky flavor or steamed for a softer bite. The key is to cook the sausage until it’s fully heated through and has obtained the desired level of browning or char.

Assembling the Sauerkraut Sausage Dog is straightforward – place the cooked sausage in the bun, top it with a hefty portion of warm sauerkraut, and for those who enjoy additional flavors, condiments such as mustard, mayonnaise, or ketchup can be added. Some might also sprinkle crispy onions or shredded cheese for an extra layer of texture and taste.

Sauerkraut Sausage Dogs Recipe

Sauerkraut Sausage Dogs

Sauerkraut Sausage Dogs are a delightful and classic dish, combining the savory taste of sausages like frankfurters or bratwurst with the tangy flavor of fermented cabbage, known as sauerkraut. Nestled within soft, warm buns, these sausage dogs are commonly enjoyed at various events such as backyard barbecues, baseball games, and family gatherings.

The preparation method is straightforward; sausages are grilled or steamed and then placed in a bun, topped with warmed sauerkraut that has been simmered with flavorsome additions such as onions, caraway seeds, and occasionally apples or beer. To further enhance the dish, condiments like mustard, ketchup, or mayonnaise can be added along with optional toppings like crispy onions or melted cheese for additional texture and flavor.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 356 kcal

Equipment

• 1 grill pan

Ingredients

  

• 4 large pork sausages
• 6 large lettuceromaine leaves
• 1/4 cup mustard
• 1/4 cup sweet relish
• 1/2 cup sauerkraut shredded
• red pepperflakes

Instructions

 

• Heat a grill pan, or skillet, to high and place sausages on the grill pan. Cook the sausages for 5 minutes on each side, until no longer pink in the center.
• Wrap sausages on lettuce leaves and top with desired amount of mustard, relish and sauerkraut.

Video

Keyword pork sausages

Tips for making about Sauerkraut Sausage Dogs

Cooking Tips

• Choose the Right Sausage: The type of sausage you choose will dictate much of the flavor. Traditional options like frankfurters or bratwurst work wonderfully, but you can experiment with other types of sausages according to your preference.
• Cooking the Sausage: Whether you grill, steam, or pan-fry your sausages, ensure they’re cooked through and have a nice exterior color for additional flavor and texture. Grilling adds a smoky taste that pairs well with the sauerkraut.
• Preparing the Sauerkraut: Rinse the sauerkraut if it’s too salty or tangy straight out of the jar or can. Simmer it with flavors like caraway seeds, onions, apple slices, or even a splash of beer. This enhances the sauerkraut and gives it a deeper flavor profile.
• Warm the Buns: Toasting or warming the buns before assembly can add a bit of crunch and prevent them from becoming soggy when filled with the hot sausage and sauerkraut.
• Sauces and Condiments: Classic mustard, preferably whole grain or Dijon, is a traditional topping. For a different twist, consider a spicy mustard or homemade relish. Ketchup may be favored by some but tastes vary regionally.
• Additional Toppings: While sauerkraut and mustard are classics, feel free to add extras like crispy fried onions, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for more complexity.
• Balancing Flavors: Since sauerkraut can be quite tangy, it’s important to balance it with the sausage. A slightly sweeter sausage can complement the sourness of the kraut nicely.

Serving suggestions

• Classic Presentation: Serve the sausage dogs in a neat, open or partially closed bun where the sausage and toppings are clearly visible. This traditional way makes it easy for guests to pick up and eat.
• Garnishes: Top the sauerkraut with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
• Sauces: Offer a variety of mustards—such as yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, and honey mustard—on the side for guests to choose their favorite. Some may also appreciate the addition of ketchup or mayonnaise.
• Customizable Toppings: Set up a topping bar with options like crispy onions, shredded cheese, pickles, and jalapeños for guests who enjoy customizing their dog to their taste.
• Side Dishes: Pair with simple sides that complement the tanginess of the sauerkraut, such as potato salad, baked beans, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.
• Warmth: Ensure that the buns and sauerkraut are warmed before serving. The warmth elevates the tenderness of the bun and the flavor of the sauerkraut.
• Beverage Pairing: Classic beverages like cold beer, root beer, or lemonade are refreshing accompaniments that can help balance the flavors of the dish.
• Stay Orderly: If serving at a gathering or event, consider using baskets lined with checkered paper for that classic, casual feel—don’t forget the napkins as this can be a delightfully messy treat!