Nuremberg Sausages with Sauerkraut and Mashed Potatoes

Traditional Nuremberg Sausages with Sauerkraut, Mashed Potatoes, and Gravy

Germany, with its rich culinary history, offers a myriad of traditional dishes that embody the nation’s cultural heritage. One such beloved meal is Nuremberg sausages with sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, and gravy, known in German as Nürnberger Würstchen mit Sauerkraut und Kartoffelpüree und Bratensoße. This hearty and flavorful combination has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of this delightful meal and provide a detailed recipe for you to recreate it at home.

A delicious serving of mashed potatoes topped with rich gravy, accompanied by Nuremberg sausages and sauerkraut.

A Brief History of Nuremberg Sausages

Nuremberg sausages, or Nürnberger Würstchen, have been produced in the city of Nuremberg, Germany, since the 14th century. These small, finger-sized sausages are made from finely ground pork, seasoned with marjoram, and are protected by EU geographical indication, ensuring they are made according to traditional methods. Historically, they were sold by street vendors who cooked them on small portable grills, making them a popular snack among locals and travelers alike.

The Perfect Pairing: Sauerkraut, Mashed Potatoes, and Gravy

Sauerkraut, a fermented cabbage dish, has been a part of German cuisine for over a thousand years. Not only is it a flavorful accompaniment, but it is also a source of essential vitamins during the long winter months. Although mashed potatoes and gravy are more modern additions, they complement the meal perfectly by adding a creamy and savory element to the tangy and aromatic sausages and sauerkraut.

Detailed Recipe

Ingredients

For the Nuremberg Sausages:

• 1 pound (450 grams) Nürnberger sausages (about 12-15 sausages)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauerkraut:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded (about 2 pounds or 900 grams)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 apple, grated
• 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds (900 grams) russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Nuremberg Sausages: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
2. Prepare the Sauerkraut: In the same skillet, add the vegetable oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Next, add the shredded cabbage, grated apple, apple cider, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cover. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well combined.
3. Make the Mashed Potatoes: While the sauerkraut is cooking, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Prepare the Gravy: In a small saucepan, heat the beef broth over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and cream until smooth. Gradually add the flour mixture to the broth, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the sausages alongside a generous serving of sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. Finally, drizzle the gravy over the mashed potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Nuremberg sausages

Nuremberg sausages with sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, and gravy is a quintessential German meal that brings together the rich flavors and traditions of Germany. The combination of tender sausages, tangy sauerkraut, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory gravy creates a comforting and satisfying dish that has stood the test of time. Enjoy this delightful meal and experience a taste of Germany’s culinary heritage.