A hearty and flavorful dish combining sauerkraut, smoked sausage, and fruits for a delightful meal.
Rinse the sauerkraut thoroughly in a colander under cool water and let it drain for 5-10 minutes.
Rinsing the sauerkraut reduces its saltiness and balances the flavors.
Cut the bacon into small pieces and fry in a large pan over medium heat until crispy.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the drippings for added flavor.
Chop the apples, pear, onion, celery, and sausage into bite-sized pieces.
Uniformly sized pieces ensure even cooking.
Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside. Add olive oil and butter to the pan, letting the butter melt.
Combining olive oil and butter prevents the butter from burning.
Stir in the flour to the pan drippings and cook until golden and bubbly. Add brown sugar, garlic, and Dijon mustard, cooking for another minute.
Stir constantly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Gradually pour in the hard cider, stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cider slowly to maintain a smooth consistency.
Combine the sauerkraut, chopped fruits and vegetables, bacon, sausage, and sauce in a crock pot.
Layer the ingredients evenly for consistent cooking.
Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until everything is tender and flavors are melded.
Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.