As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve and revelers across the country raise a glass to toast the arrival of a new year, the people of Pennsylvania Dutch Country are preparing to dig into a different kind of celebration: a steaming plate of pork and sauerkraut. This hearty, comforting dish, made with slow-cooked pork and tangy fermented cabbage, is more than just a tasty meal – it’s a beloved tradition that’s said to bring good luck and prosperity in the year ahead.
The History and Cultural Significance of Pork and Sauerkraut
The tradition of eating pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day has its roots in the culinary and cultural traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch, a group of German-speaking settlers who arrived in the region in the 18th and 19th centuries. For these hardworking farmers and tradespeople, pork was a staple of the winter diet, providing a rich source of protein and fat that could sustain them through the long, cold months.
Sauerkraut, meanwhile, was a practical and delicious way to preserve the bounty of the fall cabbage harvest. By fermenting shredded cabbage with salt and allowing it to cure for several weeks or months, the Pennsylvania Dutch could create a tangy, nutritious condiment that would keep for months without refrigeration.
Over time, the combination of pork and sauerkraut became a beloved part of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, enjoyed at family gatherings and community events throughout the year. But it was on New Year’s Day that the dish took on a special significance, as a way to ensure good luck and prosperity in the year ahead.
According to Pennsylvania Dutch folklore, the pork in the dish symbolizes progress and moving forward, as pigs root forward when foraging for food. The sauerkraut, meanwhile, represents wealth and prosperity, as the shreds of cabbage are thought to resemble strips of paper money. By eating pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day, the Pennsylvania Dutch believed that they could ensure a year filled with good fortune and abundance.
Today, the tradition of eating pork and sauerkraut on New Year’s Day has spread far beyond the borders of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, with families across the United States embracing this comforting and symbolic dish. But for the people of this region, the meal remains a deeply meaningful part of their cultural heritage, a way to connect with their ancestors and ensure a lucky start to the new year.
How to Make Classic Pork and Sauerkraut
If you’re looking to start your own New Year’s Day tradition of eating pork and sauerkraut, the good news is that this dish is relatively simple to make at home. Here’s a classic recipe that’s sure to bring you luck and comfort in the year ahead:
Ingredients
- 1 pound sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 apple, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2-3 pounds pork loin roast or pork shoulder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- In a large Dutch oven or roasting pan, combine the sauerkraut, chopped onion, chopped apple, brown sugar, caraway seeds (if using), and bay leaf. Mix well to combine.
- Season the pork roast with salt and pepper, then place it on top of the sauerkraut mixture.
- Cover the pot or pan tightly with a lid or foil, then place it in the preheated oven.
- Cook the pork and sauerkraut for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily with a fork. If the sauerkraut begins to dry out during cooking, you can add a little water or chicken broth to the pot to keep it moist.
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving with the sauerkraut on the side.
This classic recipe is a great starting point for making pork and sauerkraut at home, but there are plenty of ways to customize and adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. Some cooks like to add sliced apples or carrots to the sauerkraut for extra sweetness and texture, while others prefer to use beer or wine instead of water or broth for added flavor. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that works best for you and your family.
Regional Variations and Serving Suggestions
While the basic combination of pork and sauerkraut is a constant in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, there are plenty of regional variations and serving suggestions that reflect the diversity and creativity of this culinary tradition. Here are a few popular ways to enjoy this classic dish:
Pork and Sauerkraut with Dumplings
In some parts of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, it’s common to serve pork and sauerkraut with a side of fluffy, homemade dumplings. These dumplings, made with a simple mixture of flour, eggs, and milk, are dropped into the simmering sauerkraut during the last few minutes of cooking, creating a comforting and satisfying addition to the meal.
Pork and Sauerkraut with Mashed Potatoes
Another popular way to serve pork and sauerkraut is with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. The rich, buttery potatoes provide a perfect counterpoint to the tangy sauerkraut and savory pork, creating a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Pork and Sauerkraut Balls
For a fun and festive twist on the classic dish, some Pennsylvania Dutch cooks like to make pork and sauerkraut balls. These bite-sized appetizers are made by mixing cooked pork and sauerkraut with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then rolling the mixture into balls and frying until crispy and golden brown. They’re perfect for serving at parties or as a game day snack.
Pork and Sauerkraut Soup
On a cold and blustery day, nothing beats a steaming bowl of pork and sauerkraut soup. This hearty and flavorful soup is made by simmering pork, sauerkraut, potatoes, and other vegetables in a rich broth until tender and delicious. It’s a great way to use up leftover pork and sauerkraut, and can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and spices. No matter how you choose to serve it, pork and sauerkraut is a dish that’s sure to bring comfort, joy, and a little bit of luck to your New Year’s Day celebration.
Where to Find the Best Pork and Sauerkraut in Pennsylvania
If you’re looking to sample some of the best pork and sauerkraut that Pennsylvania Dutch Country has to offer, there are plenty of great places to check out. Here are a few top spots to add to your culinary bucket list:
Deitsch Eck Restaurant (Lenhartsville)
This cozy, family-owned restaurant in the heart of Berks County is known for its authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, including some of the best pork and sauerkraut around. Their version features tender, slow-cooked pork and tangy sauerkraut, served with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes and homemade applesauce.
- Address: 87 Penn St, Lenhartsville, PA 19534
- Website: https://deitscheckrestaurant.com/
Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn (Strasburg)
Located in the heart of Lancaster County’s Amish Country, Hershey Farm is a popular destination for visitors looking to sample traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Their pork and sauerkraut is a standout, featuring juicy, tender pork and flavorful sauerkraut, served with a side of buttery egg noodles.
- Address: 240 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks, PA 17572
- Website: https://hersheyfarm.com/
Haag’s Hotel (Shartlesville)
This historic hotel and restaurant in the tiny village of Shartlesville has been serving up classic Pennsylvania Dutch fare since the 1800s. Their pork and sauerkraut is a must-try, featuring slow-cooked pork and tangy sauerkraut, served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and homemade bread.
- Address: 22 Main St, Shartlesville, PA 19554
- Website: https://www.haagshotel.com/
The Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner at Zion’s Reformed United Church of Christ (Allentown)
For a truly authentic Pennsylvania Dutch experience, head to Zion’s Reformed United Church of Christ in Allentown on New Year’s Day for their annual Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner. This beloved community event features all-you-can-eat pork and sauerkraut, served with a side of mashed potatoes, applesauce, and homemade bread. It’s a great way to start the new year with a belly full of luck and a heart full of joy.
- Address: 620 W Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18101
- Website: https://zionsucc-allentown.org/
Of course, these are just a few of the many great places to find pork and sauerkraut in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Whether you’re dining at a cozy family restaurant or attending a festive community event, you’re sure to find plenty of delicious options to choose from.
Conclusion
Pork and sauerkraut may seem like a simple dish, but for the people of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, it’s a beloved tradition that’s steeped in history, culture, and a little bit of superstition. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of this comforting meal or a curious newcomer looking to start your own New Year’s Day tradition, there’s never been a better time to explore the rich flavors and traditions of this iconic dish.
So why not start your new year off on a lucky foot by whipping up a batch of pork and sauerkraut at home, or by seeking out one of the many great restaurants and community events that celebrate this beloved Pennsylvania Dutch tradition? With a little bit of luck and a lot of delicious food, you’re sure to have a happy and prosperous year ahead.
