Easy Sauerbraten

Total Time

Prep: 25 min. + marinating Bake: 3 hours

Makes

10 servings

Updated: Jun. 30, 2023
This easy sauerbraten recipe is a tasty example of traditional German fare. Its definitive pickled tang is pleasing and sure to delight German food lovers. —Patricia Rutherford, Winchester, Illinois

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups red wine vinegar
  • 12 whole cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 teaspoons salt
  • 3 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 boneless beef chuck roast or rump roast (4 pounds)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 large onion, cut into wedges
  • 5 medium carrots, cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 celery ribs, cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the water, vinegar, cloves, bay leaves, salt and brown sugar. Remove 2 cups to a small bowl; cover and refrigerate. Add roast to large bowl with remaining marinade; turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 days, turning twice each day.
  2. Discard marinade and spices from large bowl. Pat roast dry; dredge in flour. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown roast in oil on all sides. Transfer to a small roasting pan. Add the onion, carrots, celery and reserved marinade.
  3. Cover and bake at 325° for 3 to 3-1/2 hours or until meat is tender. With a slotted spoon, remove meat and vegetables to a serving platter. Strain cooking juices; thicken if desired.

Easy Sauerbraten Tips

What does sauerbraten mean?

In English, sauerbraten translates to "sour roast" or "pickled roast," referring to the vinegar-based marinade that tenderizes the meat.

What is the best cut of meat for sauerbraten?

Round, chuck or rump roasts are the best cuts of meat for sauerbraten. This easy sauerbraten recipe’s long marinade and cook time will tenderize even the toughest cuts of meat.

What is traditionally served with sauerbraten?

Potato dumplings, red cabbage and applesauce are popular German accompaniments when serving sauerbraten. You can also serve it with potato pancakes, followed by a German apple cake.

Can you make sauerbraten in a slow cooker?

Yes! Turn this dish into a hands-off weekday meal with this Slow-Cooker Sauerbraten recipe.

Nutrition Facts

1 serving: 365 calories, 20g fat (7g saturated fat), 118mg cholesterol, 368mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 36g protein.