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Best Cozy Slow Cooker Oktoberfest Sausage and Cabbage Recipe

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This cozy slow cooker Oktoberfest sausage and cabbage is a simple, dump-and-go recipe that delivers deep, complex flavor. Tender sausage, silky cabbage, and a savory broth with hints of apple and caraway make it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 to 2.5 pounds), cored and cut into 1-inch wedges
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into 1/2-inch half-moons
  • 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup Oktoberfest beer or amber lager
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cabbage: Remove any wilted outer leaves. Cut the cabbage in half through the core, then each half into quarters. Cut out the tough core from each wedge. Cut each wedge crosswise into 1-inch wide strips. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Prep the vegetables and apple: Slice the onion into thin half-moons. Cut the apple into 1-inch chunks (no need to peel). Add both to the bowl with the cabbage.
  3. Season the cabbage mixture: Sprinkle caraway seeds, salt, and pepper over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together with your hands to distribute evenly.
  4. Layer in the slow cooker: Place half of the seasoned cabbage mixture in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Nestle the sausage pieces on top, then add the remaining cabbage mixture. Tuck the bay leaves into the mixture.
  5. Add the liquids: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together chicken broth, beer, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour evenly over the cabbage and sausage. Do not stir.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cabbage should be very tender when pierced with a fork, and the sausage heated through and plump.
  7. Check for doneness: Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed. You may want a pinch more salt or another splash of vinegar for brightness.
  8. Rest and serve: Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving platter.

Notes

For best flavor, toast caraway seeds in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before using. Browning the sausage in a hot skillet with oil adds extra depth. Start with less salt as sausage can be salty. The dish improves with age; make a day ahead for deeper flavor. If too watery, remove lid for last 30-45 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, Oktoberfest, sausage, cabbage, kielbasa, comfort food, fall recipe, German recipe

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/best-cozy-slow-cooker-oktoberfest-sausage-and-cabbage-recipe/