Sauerkraut Salad with Apple and Leek

About This Sauerkraut Salad Recipe

This is definitely a hearty salad, at the same time it has a bright crunch which contributes to a lighter flavor. Tart, sweet and savory are perfectly balanced, the texture is delightful and it couldn't be easier to make. 

I remember eating a lot of it - growing up it was often on my family's menu during fall and winter. 

Ingredients

Sauerkraut. Definitely go with naturally fermented sauerkraut - do not buy the vinegar soured type. 

Apple. Go with a red apple such as Pink Lady, Fuji, Gala. It brings about sweetness to counter the sour power/

Leek. The characteristic mild flavor of leeks works much better than harsher onion flavor. 

Horseradish. Use prepared horseradish - it wonderfully ties together the predominant tastes of the sauerkraut, apple and leek. Adjust the quantity to taste and your individual spice tolerance.  

Olive oil. Use extra virgin olive oil, as fruity as possible for best tasting results. 

Caraway seed. A classic spice to add to sauerkraut, use ground or whole as you prefer and add it to taste. 

How to Make It

All you need to do is prep the ingredients and mix them together.

1. Clean the leek, remove the dark green parts and halve the white and light green remaining lower part. Thinly slice each half (#1 below)
2. Clean and core the apple. Cut into matchsticks. 
3. In a mixing bowl combine the drained sauerkraut, thinly sliced leek and apple sticks with the prepared horseradish, olive oil and caraway seed. Mix well and taste. Season with salt and pepper if necessary. 

Ways to Serve & Enjoy

You can enjoy this vibrant sauerkraut salad in multiple ways beyond the standard meal starter course. Consider the following options:

• Topping for brats and hot dogs
• Side dish for pork chops, schnitzel, pork steaks or pork ribs
• Stuffing for savory crepes 
• Stuffing for savory strudel - whether you make your own strudel dough, use puff pastry or phylo dough
• Stuffing for pierogi
• Stuffing for whole roast chicken or turkey
• Stuffing for pork loin

Health Benefits of This Sauerkraut Salad

Provided that you consume the salad raw, without any of the indulgent thermal interventions hinted at above, you can enjoy the following advantageous effects.   

Improved gut health & mood - sauerkraut being a staple probiotic powerhouse food directly brings about the associated good bacteria benefits. At the same time leeks, which have a high inulin fiber content are an important prebiotic and promote healthy gut bacteria. 

Improved digestion - caraway seed is well-known for aiding digestion and leeks can help with the break down of fats. Both make this salad a great choice to consume along with grilled or roasted meats.