German Rice Recipe

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 7 servings

• cup olive oil
• 1 pounds fresh bratwurst links, casings removed
• 1 onion, halved and thinly sliced into half rings
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons fennel seed
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can Bavarian-style sauerkraut, undrained
• 3 cups uncooked white rice
• 1 tablespoon chicken soup base (paste)
• 6 cups water
• cup raisins
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the bratwurst until browned, breaking it up into chunks as it cooks, about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Stir in onions and garlic, and cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix in fennel seed and sauerkraut with juice, and allow the mixture to pan-fry for 2 minutes without stirring.

Step 4: Stir in rice and soup base until incorporated, about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in water, raisins, and black pepper. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes.

Step 6: Reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until rice is tender and almost all the water has been absorbed, about 30 minutes.

Cooks Note

I like to use bratwurst sausages in casing that I can remove before cooking instead of buying it ground. That way when I fry it in the pan and break it up, I can leave big chunks as well as smaller ground meat.

Alternate methods of cooking rice work just as well, like boiling until almost all of the water is even with the top of the rice mixture (no more floating rice), then removing from heat, covering, and letting it sit for 15 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	716
Total Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	12g
Cholesterol	60mg
Sodium	1633mg
Total Carbohydrate	79g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	19g
Vitamin C	11mg
Calcium	66mg
Iron	5mg
Potassium	298mg

Servings Per Recipe: 7

Percent Daily Value: * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History of German Rice

The dish known as "German Rice" is a comforting and flavorful staple with roots in traditional German cuisine. It combines several classic ingredients of the German diet, including bratwurst, sauerkraut, and fennel seeds. Historically, German cuisine has been deeply influenced by the use of hearty grains, pork, and preserved vegetables such as sauerkraut, which were popular in the colder months when fresh produce was less available. The addition of rice in this dish, however, is a more contemporary twist, as rice became a more widely used ingredient in European kitchens over time, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Regional Variations of German Rice

While the dish itself is simple and can be made across Germany, it has regional twists. In southern Germany, for example, the use of fennel is more prevalent, as it complements the sweetness of the sausages. In contrast, northern regions may opt for a slightly sharper sauerkraut or incorporate other local herbs and spices into the mix. In many areas, rice might be substituted with other grains, such as barley or spelt, reflecting the regions agricultural traditions.

How German Rice Differs from Similar Dishes

German rice sets itself apart from other rice dishes with its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. Unlike Spanish paella or Italian risotto, which are primarily centered around the rice itself, German rice focuses on the marriage of bratwurst, sauerkraut, and other hearty ingredients. The addition of raisins offers a slight sweetness that distinguishes it from other European rice-based dishes. Furthermore, the method of cooking simmering the rice with broth, sausages, and sauerkraut gives it a much richer, savory flavor compared to more neutral rice preparations like pilafs.

Where Is German Rice Typically Served?

German rice is often served as a main course for casual family meals or gatherings. It is popular during the colder months when comfort foods reign supreme. In Germany, it might be enjoyed in homes or small neighborhood gatherings, particularly in regions known for their sausages and sauerkraut, such as Bavaria. This dish is also commonly found in German beer halls, where it pairs wonderfully with a cold lager or wheat beer, adding to the hearty, rustic appeal of the cuisine.

Interesting Facts About German Rice

• The dish's versatility means it can easily be adapted to different tastes. For instance, people sometimes add mushrooms or apples to enhance the flavor profile.
• The combination of rice and sauerkraut is believed to have originated as a way to preserve food through the winter months, making use of long-lasting ingredients.
• Some people even experiment with adding beer to the broth, further emphasizing the German love for integrating local brews into their dishes.
• While raisins may seem like an unusual addition, they balance the tang of the sauerkraut and the savory flavors of the bratwurst, providing a unique sweet-sour taste.

Conclusion

German rice is a perfect example of the rich, comforting, and hearty foods that are a hallmark of German cuisine. With its combination of bratwurst, sauerkraut, and rice, it offers a satisfying meal that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you are enjoying it in a cozy home setting or a lively beer hall, this dish is a true representation of Germany's culinary heritage, with a dash of modern creativity.

FAQ about German Rice Recipe

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