Which Wine to Use When Cooking Sauerkraut Sauerkraut is a traditional Eastern European dish made from fermented cabbage, known for its tangy and distinctive flavor. While it can be enjoyed simply on its own, cooking sauerkraut with different ingredients can create a delicious and hearty meal. One ingredient that enhances the flavor of sauerkraut dishes is wine. But with so many options available, which wine is the best choice for cooking sauerkraut? Let's dive into the options and find out. When it comes to choosing wine for sauerkraut recipes, it's important to keep in mind the flavors you want to enhance in your dish. Sauerkraut itself has a strong and acidic taste, so balancing it with appropriate wine can elevate the overall flavor profile. 1. White Wine: A dry white wine can bring a refreshing and subtle flavor to sauerkraut dishes. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are good choices as they have a crisp and light taste that won't overpower the sauerkraut. Their acidity can help balance the sourness of the fermented cabbage without adding too much sweetness. 2. Riesling: Riesling is a versatile wine that can complement the flavor of sauerkraut quite nicely. It can add a touch of sweetness to counterbalance the tartness of the sauerkraut. The floral and fruity undertones of Riesling can create a harmonious blend with the slightly bitter notes found in sauerkraut. Opt for a dry or off-dry Riesling to avoid overpowering the dish with excessive sweetness. 3. Beer: While not a wine option, beer can also pair well with sauerkraut dishes. The malty and hoppy flavors can add depth and complexity to the dish. A light or wheat beer can complement sauerkraut, especially in recipes that include sausages or other hearty meats. Choose a beer with flavors that won't overpower the sauerkraut and allow the tanginess of the cabbage to shine through. 4. Red Wine: Choosing red wine for sauerkraut dishes should be done with caution, as the bold and robust flavors can sometimes clash with the tanginess of the sauerkraut. However, in some recipes like beef or pork-based sauerkraut stews, a red wine with a medium body, such as a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, can enhance the rich flavors of the meat and add depth to the dish. 5. Juniper Berry-Infused Wine: If you want to add an extra layer of complexity to your sauerkraut recipe, consider using juniper berry-infused wine. Juniper berries are often used in traditional sauerkraut dishes, and infusing the wine with these berries can provide complementary flavors. The earthy and piney notes of juniper berries can marry well with the tartness of sauerkraut and create a unique and flavorful combination. In conclusion, when cooking sauerkraut, the choice of wine depends on personal preference and the specific flavors of your dish. Experimenting with different wines can help you find the perfect balance and enhance the overall taste of your sauerkraut creations. Whether you opt for a dry white, a fruity Riesling, a light beer, a medium-bodied red, or a juniper berry-infused wine, the addition of wine can elevate sauerkraut from a simple side dish to a flavorful and fulfilling meal.