Sauerbraten is a traditional German dish made from beef that is marinated in vinegar and spices, then slowly cooked to perfection. It’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Often served with red cabbage and potato dumplings, this dish is a hearty and delicious meal.
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
2 cups red wine vinegar 🍷
2 cups water 💧
1 large onion, sliced 🧅
2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
1 tsp ground cloves 🌰
1 tsp ground black pepper 🧂
2 bay leaves 🍃
1 tbsp sugar 🍬
2 tbsp salt 🧂
For the Roast:
3-4 lbs beef roast (typically rump or chuck) 🥩
2 tbsp vegetable oil 🌿
1 cup beef broth 🍖
2 tbsp all-purpose flour 🌾
2 tbsp butter 🧈
2 tbsp sugar (for caramelizing) 🍬
Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
🍴 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Marinate the Beef:
In a large bowl or container, combine the red wine vinegar, water, onion, garlic, cloves, pepper, bay leaves, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine.
Place the beef roast into the marinade, making sure it is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours (preferably 2-3 days), turning the beef occasionally.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef:
After marinating, remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Brown the beef roast on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side, until it’s well-seared.
3️⃣ Cook the Roast:
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the onions from the marinade in the same pot until they become soft and golden.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
Return the beef to the pot, adding the reserved marinade (including the spices) to the pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the beef simmer for 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
4️⃣ Make the Gravy:
Once the beef is done, remove it from the pot and set it aside to rest.
Strain the sauce to remove the vegetables and spices.
Return the sauce to the pot and bring it to a boil.
In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and allow it to caramelize slightly.
Stir the caramelized sugar into the sauce to add depth of flavor.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5️⃣ Serve the Sauerbraten:
Slice the beef roast and serve it with the rich gravy poured over the top.
Sauerbraten is traditionally served with sides like mashed potatoes, potato dumplings, red cabbage, or roasted vegetables.
🍴 Enjoy your delicious, hearty Sauerbraten – a perfect German comfort food that’s sure to impress!
Sauerbraten (German Pot Roast) Recipe
