Pork chop with pickled cabbage

Pork Chop with Sauerkraut – a comforting and flavor-packed dish, perfect for family meals or a relaxing dinner. This recipe, which combines the rich flavors of pork with the crunchy texture of sauerkraut and the subtle sweetness of apple, is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty, simple, and comforting dish.

Before we start cooking, let's take a brief journey into the history of this dish. Pork chop with sauerkraut is a traditional dish rooted in comfort food cuisine, a type of cooking that focuses on simple yet very flavorful ingredients. Sauerkraut, a staple ingredient in many cultures, not only adds an unmistakable taste but also provides an important source of nutrients, being rich in vitamins C and K, as well as beneficial probiotics for the digestive system.

Let's get to work! This recipe is simple but delivers impressive results, perfect for a family lunch or dinner.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork chop
- 1 kg sauerkraut
- 1 tart apple (preferably a Granny Smith or another tart variety)
- 1-2 onions (depending on your preference)
- 50 g butter
- 300 ml meat broth (preferably pork or beef)
- 400 ml apple juice (for a pleasant sweetness)
- 3-4 bay leaves
- Salt (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion. Chop the onion finely, ensuring uniform pieces for even sautéing. Next, take care of the apple. Peel it, cut it into quarters, remove the core, and slice it thinly. The apple will add a note of freshness and natural sweetness to the dish.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and slightly golden. This will provide a flavorful base for the remaining ingredients.

3. Adding the sauerkraut and apple: Drain the sauerkraut well (if it's too salty, you can rinse it briefly with cold water) and add it to the pot along with the apple slices. Sauté everything together for 5-7 minutes, until the sauerkraut softens a bit and the apple releases its aroma.

4. Adding the liquids: Now it's time to add the meat broth and apple juice. These will contribute to creating a juicy and flavorful base. Add the bay leaves and a piece of well-seasoned pork.

5. Simmering: Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 1 hour and a half. It's important not to lift the lid too often to avoid losing steam and flavors.

6. Finalizing the dish: After this time, remove the pork chop from the pot. Debone it (if necessary) and slice it into appropriate pieces. Check the taste of the sauerkraut and season it to your liking.

7. Serving: Serve the pork chop alongside the sauerkraut, perhaps with a side of mashed potatoes or a slice of fresh bread. A drizzle of olive oil on top can add an extra burst of flavor.

Helpful tips:
- If you prefer a spicier taste, you can add a few peppercorns or a bit of cumin during cooking.
- This recipe can also be made with beef or chicken, offering an interesting variation.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated the next day, and the flavors intensify.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each serving contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of oil and meat used. Pork chop is an excellent source of protein, while sauerkraut provides an important source of fiber and probiotics, beneficial for digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut?
- Of course, but you will need to add salt and a bit of vinegar to achieve a similar acidity.

2. What drinks pair well with this dish?
- A dry white wine or apple cider are excellent choices, complementing the sweetness of the apple in the recipe.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, it can be frozen, but it is recommended to keep the sauerkraut in the fridge to avoid it turning into an unpleasant texture.

This pork chop with sauerkraut recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a true feast of flavors and traditions. Whether you make it for a special occasion or simply for a cozy evening at home, it will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!