spare ribs and sauerkraut recipe
The Best spare ribs and sauerkraut recipe
I love spare ribs and sauerkraut recipe, it’s a classic dish that never fails to impress. I first tried it at a German restaurant when I was in my early twenties, and I was hooked from the very first bite.
The combination of tender pork ribs, tangy sauerkraut, and the rich flavor of the sauce is just perfect. I’ve been making it for my family ever since, and it’s always a hit.
My kids love it because it’s a fun meal to eat with our fingers, and my husband loves it because it’s so easy to make in large quantities. For me, it’s a great way to get everyone together around the dinner table and share stories about our day.
We often have leftovers, but that’s not a bad thing – sauerkraut gets better with time, so we can enjoy it for days to come. The best part is that this recipe is incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course or use it as an appetizer for parties.
It’s also very healthy, with the sauerkraut providing probiotics and the pork being lean protein. My family and I have enjoyed this recipe countless times over the years, and we never tire of its unique flavors and textures.

Spare Ribs and Sauerkraut
Tender spare ribs slow-cooked with tangy sauerkraut create a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal. The ribs become fall-off-the-bone tender as they simmer in the savory juices of the sauerkraut and seasonings.
🥘Ingredients
For the Ribs
For the Sauerkraut
👨🍳Directions
5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is very tender and pulls away from the bone easily.
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Spare Ribs and Sauerkraut Works
Leftover spare ribs and sauerkraut store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, I like to put everything in a covered pot on the stove over low heat with a little bit of water or broth to keep it moist.
You can also reheat it in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 20 minutes, which helps the ribs stay tender. For serving, I often pair this dish with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and sometimes I add a side of applesauce for a touch of sweetness that balances the tangy sauerkraut.
This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy to make ahead and feeds a crowd without a lot of fuss. Whether it is a Sunday dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy weeknight meal, spare ribs and sauerkraut never disappoint.
My family looks forward to it every time, and I am sure yours will too. Give it a try and see how this simple combination can become a favorite in your home.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spare Ribs and Sauerkraut
Q: What type of sauerkraut should I use for this recipe?
For this recipe, you want to use a good-quality store-bought or homemade sauerkraut that’s not too finely chopped. This will help the flavors meld together properly.
Q: Can I substitute the pork ribs with beef or chicken?
While you can use beef or chicken instead of pork ribs, keep in mind that the cooking time will be significantly shorter. You may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Q: How do I store leftover spare ribs and sauerkraut?
You can store leftover spare ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months. Reheat them in the oven until they’re hot and crispy again.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the ribs before adding them to the slow cooker with the sauerkraut and sauce. Let it cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Q: What if I don’t have any caraway seeds?
You can omit the caraway seeds if you don’t have them or prefer not to use them. The dish will still be delicious without them.