Description

This recipe takes a classic Midwestern dish and gives it a delicious twist. With savory Polish sausage, tangy sauerkraut, hearty potatoes, sweet apples, and aromatic herbs, it's the perfect meal for a cozy night in. The slow cooker makes it convenient and easy, allowing you to set it and forget it while you go about your day.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Polish sausage, sliced
• 1 jar (32 ounces) sauerkraut, drained
• 4 medium potatoes, quartered
• 2 apples, cored and sliced
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish

Preparation Method

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker.
Layer the Ingredients: Start by placing the drained sauerkraut in the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the quartered potatoes and sliced apples on top.
Cook the Sausage: Brown the sliced Polish sausage in a skillet over medium heat, then add it to the slow cooker.
Add the Broth and Seasoning: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the caraway seeds, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary over the top. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Cook the Dish: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Optional Cheese Topping: If desired, about 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top to melt into the dish.
Serve: Once done, serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Tips and Conclusion

For a milder flavor: Opt for sweet apples like Fuji or Gala. If you have picky eaters, you could also try using a milder sausage or chicken sausage.
Add a tangy twist: For extra tanginess, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the slow cooker before cooking.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage entirely, and add more potatoes or mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Option: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage variety.

This Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut, and Potatoes with Apples is a hearty, flavorful dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The slow-cooked sausage combined with the tangy sauerkraut and sweet apples is a satisfying balance of flavors. Serve it with a side of salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that will impress everyone at the table.

Don’t forget to share your version of this recipe with friends and family, and try out the variations to customize it to your liking. It’s an easy and comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite!