Kassler Rippchen
A classic German comfort food featuring smoked pork chops gently simmered with tangy sauerkraut, sweet apples, and tender potatoes. This one-pot meal is hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make for a weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat
- a.Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add the drained sauerkraut, sliced apple, quartered potatoes, caraway seeds, crushed juniper berries (if using), and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- 3
Pour in the chicken broth and give everything another good stir
- a.Nestle the Kassler chops into the sauerkraut mixture, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid.
- 4
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat
- a.Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- 5
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat
- a.Carefully remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste the sauerkraut mixture and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Be cautious with salt, as the Kassler and sauerkraut are already salty.
- 6
Step 6
- a.To serve, place one Kassler chop on each plate alongside a generous portion of the sauerkraut and potato mixture. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a milder sauerkraut flavor, rinse it under cold water before draining and adding it to the pot.
- 2Kassler is pre-cooked, so it only needs to be heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- 3Use a firm, tart apple like Granny Smith or Braeburn, as it will hold its shape and provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors.
- 4Serve with a side of German mustard (spicy or sweet) for an authentic experience.
- 5If you can't find Kassler, a good quality thick-cut smoked pork chop is an excellent substitute.
- 6For a richer flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of dry white wine (like Riesling) after cooking the onions.
Adapt it for your goals.
With White Wine
For a more complex flavor, deglaze the pot with 1/2 cup of dry white wine (like Riesling) after sautéing the onions and before adding the other ingredients. Let it cook for a minute to burn off the alcohol.
Different Smoked MeatsDifferent Smoked Meats
If you can't find Kassler, you can substitute it with other smoked pork chops, smoked ham hocks, or even a good quality smoked sausage like Kielbasa. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Sweeter ProfileSweeter Profile
For a sweeter version, use a sweeter apple variety like Gala or Fuji, and add a tablespoon of brown sugar along with the sauerkraut and apples.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Gut Health Support
The star ingredient, sauerkraut, is a fermented food rich in probiotics. These beneficial bacteria help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and boosting the immune system.
Excellent Source of Protein
Kassler (smoked pork) provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and overall body function.
Rich in Vitamin C
Both sauerkraut and apples contribute a good amount of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and helps protect cells from damage.
Provides Sustained Energy
The combination of complex carbohydrates from potatoes and protein from the pork offers a source of slow-release energy, keeping you full and satisfied for longer.
Frequently asked questions
Kassler is a German-style cured and smoked cut of pork, typically from the loin, neck, or shoulder. It's already cooked during the smoking process, so it only needs to be heated through in recipes.