Contrary to popular belief, Oktoberfest, the annual German beer festival, doesn't begin in October, it actually starts this weekend! Just because I can't travel to this year's event doesn't mean I shouldn't celebrate in the comforts of my own home. You can, too, by following my plan for the ultimate Oktoberfest.

Start by serving a delectable German-inspired meal. Sauteed bratwurst are succulent when paired with braised sauerkraut, soft onions, and sweet apples. A classic vinegar-based potato salad is a filling and savory side dish. To get these recipes please keep reading.



Sautéed German Sausages with Bacon and Apple Sauerkraut
From Food & WineSautéed German Sausages with Bacon and Apple Sauerkraut

Ingredients

1/4 cup vegetable oil
2. 5 ounces thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 very large onion, coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons off-dry white wine, such as Riesling
1 large sweet apple, such as Gala or Fuji—peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
12 juniper berries
4 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 cup water
2 1/2 pounds sauerkraut—drained, rinsed and squeezed dry (4 packed cups)
12 German-style sausages, such as weisswurst or bratwurst
Grainy mustard, for serving

Directions

  1. In a large, enameled cast-iron casserole, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil until shimmering. Add the bacon and cook over moderately high heat until the fat is rendered and the bacon is crisp, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel–lined plate.
  2. Add the onion to the casserole, cover partially and cook over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until very soft, about 20 minutes. Increase the heat to moderately high.
  4. Add the wine, apple, juniper berries, bay leaves, sugar, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper and boil for 3 minutes. Add the water and the sauerkraut. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook until the apple is very tender, about 45 minutes.
  5. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until shimmering. Poke the sausages several times with a fork and cook them over moderate heat, turning several times, until golden and heated through, about 8 minutes.
  6. Spoon the sauerkraut onto a platter and arrange the sausages on top. Sprinkle the reserved bacon over the sausages and serve with mustard.

      7. Serves 6.

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Potato Salad
From Bon AppétitPotato Salad

Ingredients

3 pounds medium Yukon Gold potatoes (each about 3 inches in diameter)
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh chives or green onion tops
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons drained capers
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon caper liquid from jar
1 teaspoon coarse-grained Dijon mustard
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

  1. Cook potatoes in large pot of boiling salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain potatoes; cool 30 minutes.
  2. Peel potatoes, if desired; cut into 1/3-inch-thick slices. Place potatoes in large bowl. Add chives, parsley, and capers.
  3. Combine vinegar, caper liquid, and mustard in small bowl. Whisk in oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
  4. Pour dressing over potatoes; toss gently. Season salad with salt and pepper. Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature.

Serves 6-8.

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