These braised rooster thighs are a country dish that takes humble components and elevates them into one thing actually particular. At its coronary heart are juicy, browned rooster thighs nestled right into a hearty mattress of tangy sauerkraut, a mixture that will remind you of traditional Northern and Japanese European consolation meals.

However the sauerkraut isn’t only a supporting participant right here as its shiny, fermented tang varieties the spine of the dish’s taste profile. Alongside apples, onions, and bacon, the sauerkraut shines, which ends up in a dish that feels each hearty and refined.

Whether or not you’re internet hosting buddies for a comfy dinner or getting ready a household meal that’s wealthy in taste and custom, this recipe is a testomony to the magic of sluggish cooking and sauerkraut.

What do juniper berries style like?

Juniper berries impart a particular botanical style to this dish; their complicated taste is predominantly described as pine-like, with citrus, pepper, and floral notes. You may want 10 berries, frivolously crushed. This may be achieved by placing them in a zip-top bag and utilizing a mallet or rolling pin to interrupt them down. Alternatively, you may frivolously crush the berries utilizing a mortar and pestle.

Save the sauerkraut juice

Since this recipe calls for 3 cups of drained sauerkraut, you may be left with the juice. Do not discard it simply but! There’s heaps you are able to do with sauerkraut juice — use it like pickle brine to marinate meat, swap it in for vinegar to make a cool salad dressing, or use it as a starter to ferment different meals, amongst different issues.

Be aware from the Meals & Wine Take a look at Kitchen

It is OK to brown the rooster thighs in batches if they do not initially all match within the pan — they need to shrink a bit as they prepare dinner. When it comes time to prepare dinner them over the sauerkraut, nevertheless, they will all want to slot in a single layer, so be sure you use a deep pan that is massive sufficient to accommodate all eight thighs.

Urged pairing

For a white wine that can distinction properly with the sauerkraut, search for a gentle, full-flavored, and unoaked white. Gewürztraminer or Pinot Gris from Alsace in France are ultimate decisions.