Guten Appetit! Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Germany with this mouthwatering recipe for oven-baked pork ribs with sauerkraut. This classic dish combines the rich, savory flavors of tender pork with the tangy crunch of sauerkraut, creating a perfect harmony that’s sure to transport your taste buds straight to a cozy German Gasthaus.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork ribs, cut into individual ribs
- 2 lbs sauerkraut, drained
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp caraway seeds
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the ribs and set aside.
- Sauté the onions in the same pot until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sauerkraut, caraway seeds, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Return the ribs to the pot, nestling them into the sauerkraut mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish piping hot with traditional German sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes: The smooth texture perfectly complements the tangy sauerkraut.
- Spätzle: These little egg noodles are a German favorite and soak up the delicious juices beautifully.
Tips for Best Results
- For extra flavor, rub the ribs with a mixture of salt, pepper, and ground caraway seeds before browning.
- Don’t rush the cooking process – low and slow is the key to tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
- If you prefer a milder sauerkraut flavor, rinse it before adding to the pot.
- A crisp German Riesling or a cold beer pairs wonderfully with this dish!
Enjoy your homemade German feast! This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving a taste of authentic German cuisine. Guten Appetit!
