Sauerbraten (German Marinated Pot Roast)

(A traditional German dish featuring a tender, slow-cooked beef roast marinated in a tangy, spiced vinegar-based brine.)

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

2 cups red wine vinegar
1 cup red wine (or water)
1 cup beef broth
1 onion, sliced
2 carrots, chopped
2 bay leaves
6 juniper berries (optional)
6 whole cloves
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 tsp salt

For the Roast:

3-4 lbs beef roast (rump roast or bottom round)
2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil
1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
2 tbsp brown sugar
¼ cup raisins (optional, for sweetness)
4-6 gingersnap cookies, crushed (for thickening and flavor)
Salt & pepper, to taste

For Serving:

Braised red cabbage or potato dumplings (Kartoffelklöße)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Meat (2-4 Days in Advance):

In a large non-reactive container (glass or stainless steel), combine vinegar, wine, broth, onion, carrots, bay leaves, juniper berries, cloves, peppercorns, and salt.
Submerge the beef roast in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 2 to 4 days, turning occasionally.

2. Sear the Meat:

Remove the roast from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
Heat butter or oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear the meat on all sides until browned (about 5 minutes per side).

3. Simmer the Sauerbraten:

Strain the marinade and discard the solids.
Pour the strained marinade over the roast.
Add brown sugar and raisins (if using).
Cover and simmer on low heat for 2.5–3 hours (or bake at 325°F (160°C)).

4. Make the Gravy:

Remove the cooked roast and keep warm.
In a bowl, mix crushed gingersnap cookies with a little marinade liquid.
Stir this mixture back into the pot and simmer until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Slice & Serve:

Slice the tender beef and serve with the rich gravy.
Pair with braised red cabbage, potato dumplings, or spaetzle.

Why This Version Stands Out?

✅ Authentic German-style marinade for deep, tangy flavor.
✅ Slow-cooked for maximum tenderness.
✅ Gingersnap cookies for a uniquely rich and thick gravy.

Would you like to pair it with a glass of dark German beer or a hearty Riesling? 🍺😊