Little speaks of Oktoberfest more than beer, cabbage, and smoked sausage, except perhaps an Oktoberfest Stew which has all of those delicious, savory and festive ingredients in one warming and cozy stew pot.
Ladling up the Flavors of Oktoberfest
To experience an Oktoberfest celebration is to experience a wonderful dose of culture coupled with some great food in a fun and festive atmosphere.
Music, dancing, lederhosen…what’s not to be enamored with?
And when I think of the food of Oktoberfest, I think of that irresistible scent of smoky sausage sputtering away on a grill, the tangy aroma of savory sauerkraut cabbage, and the mildly hoppy fragrance of good German beer, all which go together hand-in-hand so scrumptiously.
An opportunity to cook with beer is always something I like to take advantage of, as its depth and mildly bitter flavor enhances a savory recipe splendidly.
And so I thought I’d take some crave-worthy Oktoberfest ingredients—caramelized onions, rich smoked sausage, and cabbage (and lager, of course!), and make this seasonal and festive Oktoberfest Stew—the results were even more better than I expected.
The broth had just the right amount of flavor from the lager, with a savory tang from that finishing touch of cider vinegar; and the sausage gave a rich smokiness, with the cabbage adding a hint of mild sweetness.
And with a few diced potatoes to slightly thickened things up, this festive stew made for one hearty, soul-food meal.
Oktoberfest Stew is a big taste of the Oktoberfest celebration that warms and satisfies a hungry appetite, and puts a little smile on one’s face.
Tips & Tidbits for Oktoberfest Stew:
- Type of sausage: A good quality beef smoked sausage is perfect for this; but you could certainly substitute pork or even bratwurst, as well, if you’d like to go even more “Oktoberfest”.
- Care for caraway? Caraway seeds can be found in the spice section of the market; however, if you cannot find them, feel free to leave them out.
- A tangy zing: You can substitute a small splash of white vinegar, or even rice vinegar, for the apple cider vinegar, if you don’t have any on hand; the cider vinegar offers just a touch more sweetness to round things out.
- The longer it sits, the richer it gets: Making this recipe ahead of time—perhaps a day or even two before you plan on serving it—allows for the flavors to blend and deepen, which makes for a more flavorful stew.
Recipe
Oktoberfest Stew
by Ingrid Beer
Print Recipe
Yield: Serves 4-6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (14 ounce) package beef smoked sausage, cut into bite-size slices
• 1 1/2 onion, sliced into thin semi-circles
• 1/2 head small cabbage, halved again, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
• Pinch salt
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 cup German-style lager beer (Oktoberfest variety)
• 2 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed to bite-size pieces
• 2 1/2 cups hot chicken stock
• 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Preparation:
-Place a medium-large pot over medium-high heat, and add the olive oil;
-Once the oil is hot, add in the sliced beef smoked sausage, and allow the slices to caramelize and brown in the oil, for about 4-5 minutes;
-When the sausage is browned, add in the sliced onions, stir, and allow the onions to caramelize with the sausage for another few minutes, until golden-brown and softened;
-Once onions are caramelized, add in the sliced cabbage, stir to combine, and allow the cabbage to soften and take on the flavors of the sausage and onions for few minutes;
-Once the cabbage is softened and golden, add in the black pepper, ground caraway seeds and the pinch of salt, and stir to combine;
-Next, stir in the garlic, and once it becomes aromatic, add in the cup of lager, and stir the mixture to combine; allow the beer to slightly reduce for about 3 minutes or so;
-Next, add in the cubed potatoes and the hot chicken stock, stir, and allow the mixture to come to the boil; once it comes to the boil, place a lid on (slightly askew to allow just a little steam to escape), and reduce the heat to low to gently simmer the stew for about 40 minutes;
-After the 40 minutes, turn the heat off, and finish the stew by stirring in the apple cider vinegar and the chopped parsley (add more salt if necessary, too).
-Serve in large bowls with some hearty, rye bread or rustic rolls with butter or cream cheese.
Looking for more Oktoberfest inspired fare? Check these out! Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Oktoberfest Potato Skins
Karen
October 12, 2012 at 12:51 pmAs a first generation German, I totally agree with you about the festive air and gemütlichkeit that surrounds Oktoberfest celebrations! Your stew will be on my table this week as it captures the very essence of the season and joy of Autumn. Thank you for such an eloquent and accurate description of not only Oktoberfest but what is in the hearts of German people everywhere.
The Cozy Apron
October 12, 2012 at 2:06 pmThank you, Karen – my pleasure! And I’m thrilled to read that the stew will be making an appearance on your dinner table this week; I think you’ll really enjoy the flavors, and I’d love to know how it turns out for you.
Tiffany
October 23, 2012 at 8:35 pmThat was amazing!!!!!!!!! My husband loved it. I will be making that again 🙂 thank you!
The Cozy Apron
October 23, 2012 at 9:40 pmTiffany, so thrilled that this was a hit for you! Thank you for coming back to share your experience with me.
lisa jack
October 24, 2012 at 7:10 amMy daughter is allergic to everything so with only a minor modification, I can make this for my family….so excited!!! Thank you!
The Cozy Apron
October 24, 2012 at 11:13 amThat’s great, Lisa— my pleasure!
Megan Willet
October 26, 2012 at 10:33 amCould this be made in a crockpot? Thank you for the recipe.
The Cozy Apron
October 26, 2012 at 1:59 pmHi Megan, that’s a great question. What I would say is this: a very important part of creating the flavor and “depth” of this stew is that the ingredients are first caramelized in the pot until a rich, golden-brown; and once that happens, the beer’s added and it needs to reduce to once again add more depth. The stew only needs to cook/simmer for about 40 minutes, so it’s not really long cooking, and my concern is that if done in a crockpot, it may end up missing some of the “richness”.
Megan Willet
October 27, 2012 at 10:02 amThank you for your fast reply. You make a good point. I may try to carmelize on high in the CP – then add the beer and turn it to low and see what happens. If I try it, I will let you know. 🙂
The Cozy Apron
October 27, 2012 at 2:38 pmSounds good Megan!
Megan Willet
November 1, 2012 at 2:29 pmSo I did make this in the crockpot and we really loved it. If anyone wants to do it in the crockpot, I put the onions and sausage in first – on high for an hour – then turned to low, added everything else except the vinegar and parsley. I cooked it on low for about 6-7 hours. Right before serving I added the vinegar and parsley. Yum! Thank you again for the recipe.
The Cozy Apron
November 1, 2012 at 4:11 pmMegan, so glad you went ahead and tried this recipe out in the crockpot, and that it turned out well for you! And thanks for coming back to share your steps with others that may also like to do the same.
lisa jack
November 4, 2012 at 5:09 pmSo delicious, even my 4 and 2 yo ate it!!!
I made ham stock and that was my only modification. Thx for a great recipe!!!
The Cozy Apron
November 4, 2012 at 5:55 pmHi Lisa, I love it when the little ones enjoy the food, too – thanks for your comments!
Ashley Blackwell
November 10, 2012 at 4:25 pmThis turned out to be so yummy!! If it has cabbage and smoked sausage in it I am all about it!
You are great writer btw 🙂
The Cozy Apron
November 10, 2012 at 7:43 pmHi Ashley, so glad you liked this! And thank you for your kind words.
Judy Tyndall
November 18, 2012 at 9:30 amI’m so excited to make this! It looks so much like my German mother’s potato soup she would always make with left overs! She never added the cabbage but that should only add more flavor! She would also smash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup. Do you do that as well? On my way to the store now! Danke for sharing!
The Cozy Apron
November 18, 2012 at 1:46 pmHi Judy, I love having your “real time preparation” comment here, haha! To answer your question, I don’t smash the potatoes, but I don’t see why you couldn’t – heck, do it just as a homage to your mother, if you so desire! Truly hope you enjoy.
Judy
November 18, 2012 at 2:49 pmYUM! Made it, smashed some, loved it! Serving it to my mother tonight! Thank you :)You now have a lifelong follower!
The Cozy Apron
November 18, 2012 at 5:42 pmThat’s so great, Judy – hope your momma enjoys! And thanks for following!
Linda
November 18, 2012 at 4:54 pmI am not a beer drinker at all so have no knowledge of it, especially German beer. What would you recommend?
The Cozy Apron
November 18, 2012 at 5:51 pmLinda, funny enough, I’m not the biggest beer drinker, either (go figure with a last name like mine); just look for something called a “lager” beer on the label – a darker amber color, if possible. (I actually found one that was an Oktoberfest-style lager, though those may now not be as available) If you still have trouble, do what I do when it comes to beer, and ask a store clerk for a little help – they’re usually happy to help you find what you’re looking for, or at least something close to it.
Tamie
December 2, 2012 at 6:23 pmMade this for dinner tonight – it’s delicious! Thank you!
The Cozy Apron
December 2, 2012 at 7:53 pmHi Tamie, thanks for coming by to comment!
Lyn
January 28, 2013 at 6:59 amThis recipe looks great and I am definitely going to try it. Quick question – if I cannot find beef smoked sausage, are there alternatives you could list? Thanks!
The Cozy Apron
January 28, 2013 at 3:48 pmHi Lyn! You can use pork/beef kielbasa as well, or a hearty-type of sausage – really, anything that you like and has a little “smokiness”, if possible. You’d most likely be able to find it in the sausage/hot dog section of your grocery store.
Debbi
September 22, 2013 at 1:19 pmJust made this….used Sam Adams Oktoberfest and it smells and tastes amazing!!!!! Thank you!
~Debbi
The Cozy Apron
September 22, 2013 at 5:47 pmHi Debbie, my pleasure! Thanks for sharing your results with me; hope you enjoy!
Laura
September 23, 2013 at 1:51 pmCannot wait to try this recipe! Looks fantastic!
Leah
September 25, 2013 at 7:11 pmI’m a new subscriber to your blog. I have scoured over your amazing recipes and this just had to be the first to try. I made this tonight, super easy and AMAZING! Thank you so much for sharing this recipe. My hubby initially didn’t look all too thrilled with the idea of this soup that he called “poor mans soup” devoured 3 bowls and requested that I make it again tomorrow night! Sold! Super excited about trying more of your recipes!
The Cozy Apron
September 26, 2013 at 2:27 pmHi Leah! I always sort of chuckle to myself when I read the comments from the wives about the husbands initially not being too sure what it is that they’re getting for dinner until they taste it and want more – love it! 😉 It looks like the next time you plan on making this “poor man’s soup” (I love that, by the way!), you’d best make a double portion, or you just may not get any! Thanks for commenting, and I’m thrilled to have you as a subscriber; I hope you enjoy many more recipes!
Lindsay
September 26, 2013 at 1:16 pmThis looks amazing! I cannot wait to try it!! I saw this recipe about a week ago and I’ve been dying to go grocery shopping again so that I can buy the ingredients to make this! Plus the weather is cooling down in Ohio — so it’s perfect!
The Cozy Apron
September 26, 2013 at 5:30 pmAw, that’s really touching to me, Lindsay! It sounds like fall has officially started in Ohio – how wonderful! I wish it was cooler here in LA already, as fall is my favorite time of year. I hope you get to make this truly comforting and savory stew soon! Enjoy!
Jacquelyn
September 28, 2013 at 4:08 pmI used guinness, sweet potatoes, and 3 sausages I had on hand (a chicken sausage, a breakfast sausage, and venison summer sausage) and this was fantastic. The flavor is amazing. Will use again, thank you!
The Cozy Apron
September 30, 2013 at 3:36 pmHi Jacquelyn! That must have been very interesting with the sweet potatoes, and the Guinness probably added a nice, deep and dark flavor to it all. So happy you enjoyed the flavors in this comforting, cool-weather friend!
Sarah
October 1, 2013 at 9:39 amShould the potatoes be cooked or raw when you add them to the soup?
The Cozy Apron
October 1, 2013 at 1:06 pmHi Sarah! The potatoes should be raw when you add them into the pot, as they will cook while in the stew. Hope you enjoy! 🙂
Beverly
October 11, 2013 at 11:56 amThis stew is amazing! My whole family loved it! I doubled the recipe and had just one small bowl for leftovers. I’m going to look over your other recipes right now to find more wonderful-ness!
The Cozy Apron
October 11, 2013 at 5:22 pmAw, that is so very sweet, Beverly! Thanks so much for sharing that with me; and yes, please go and peruse the recipes! I think you may find some more cozy and comforting dishes to share with your family! 🙂
Kirsten
October 11, 2013 at 5:53 pmSaw your recipe posted on Pinterest today and emailed my boyfriend the photo of your dish and wrote that this looked like something to make for dinner one night next week. Well, when he received the email, he called me up and said let’s make this tonight. Just finished eating it – we both had seconds and have another meal left that we can’t wait to enjoy. What a wonderful, yet easy dish! Thank you, thank you and I can’t wait to check out some of your other amazing recipes.
The Cozy Apron
October 12, 2013 at 8:16 amHi Kirsten! I have to tell you that I just love it when people share with me how they came across a recipe of mine, and their entire experience with it. And it always makes me so happy when the recipe ends up being something truly enjoyed, especially by a couple or a family. Thanks so much for sharing that with me, and I really hope you get the chance to check out some more recipes, and enjoy them with your honey!
Michelle
October 12, 2013 at 6:34 pmI have made this stew twice now in the last two weeks and I absolutely love it! Wonderful Fall recipe! I have shared it with everyone I can think of and pinned it on Pinterest as well. This will be a favorite for years to come.
The Cozy Apron
October 13, 2013 at 6:54 pmWell thanks so very much, Michelle! I’m so glad to read how much your like this stew, and really appreciate you sharing it with others so that they, too, can enjoy it! 🙂
brittney
October 18, 2013 at 6:11 pmUsed keystone instead of lager……. bad idea.
The Cozy Apron
October 20, 2013 at 4:10 pmOh well, Brittney…there’s always next time, right? 😉
katrina
October 21, 2013 at 4:32 pmWhat are your thoughts on sauerkraut instead of raw cabbage?
The Cozy Apron
October 21, 2013 at 10:07 pmHi Katrina, I happen to love sauerkraut, so I would say give it a try! I think it’d probably be delicious – just keep in mind that the kraut will be a lot more sour than the fresh cabbage, so do rinse it well (unless you like it that strong) before adding it. Hope you enjoy!
Shannon
October 24, 2013 at 5:51 pmI usually don’t ever follow a recipe, but I did every step for this and it was delicious! I wouldn’t change a thing! Thank you for posting this, my boyfriend LOVED it!
The Cozy Apron
October 24, 2013 at 6:36 pmHi Shannon, aren’t you glad you did this time? 🙂 I’m beaming that both you & your boyfriend enjoyed the recipe – thanks for sharing!
Jennifer
October 25, 2013 at 1:21 pmIs there anything that I could substitute for the caraway seeds? I didn’t think to pick them up at the store.
The Cozy Apron
October 25, 2013 at 3:57 pmHi Jennifer! Please don’t let the absence of caraway seeds stop you from going ahead with this stew – though they add that slight peppery/nutty note, you can leave them out and still have a fabulous stew. Hope you enjoy!
Andrea
October 28, 2013 at 7:00 pmThis is in my dutch oven on the stovetop right now, and I can’t WAIT till it’s done! Forty minutes is too long! 🙂 My kids all help me chop everything, which made them that much more excited to eat it. Had to educate the little ones about how the alcohol is cooked out of the beer, making it okay for kids to eat. 🙂 This is the first cool day of fall in our area, and the PERFECT day to try this out. Thanks!
The Cozy Apron
October 29, 2013 at 11:52 amAndrea, I can just imagine you in the kitchen with your little ones! And when people share with me that their kids participated in helping prepare one of my recipes, I am so deeply touched; I think it’s a great way to connect and to teach, just as you explained to them about the alcohol cooking out. So glad you came to share your comments with me! Hope you all enjoyed your dinner…
Jamie
November 5, 2013 at 3:58 pmJust wanted to say how great this was! I got the recommendation from my sister-in-law, and I’m so thankful! I just love when you take a risk and it turns out great. I love everything in this stew… the texture of the potatoes, the flavor soaked cabbage and onions, the tangy touch of vinegar and the hearty sausage… PERFECT! My family loved it, even my skeptical 7 year old! I look forward to looking through your recipes. Thank you so much for sharing!
The Cozy Apron
November 5, 2013 at 5:13 pmIt is absolutely my pleasure Jamie! And thank YOU for coming back to offer such a rave review of your experience! See how delicious taking risks can be sometimes? 🙂 Please do check out more of the recipes – I think you’ll find more to experiment with!
Jessica H
November 14, 2013 at 7:44 pmI made this soup twice and love it! Personally, I like it a lot more without the apple cider vinegar at the end. If anyone is not sure, taste first and consider if you need to add it. It made it a little too sour for my preference. I used two different lager beers each time. Both tasted great. I also doubled this recipe and cooked everything a little longer than recommended to really get some good color. Thanks for the awesome recipe!
The Cozy Apron
November 15, 2013 at 4:17 pmHey Jessica, that’s great! I’m always happy to read when people make/adjust recipes to their personal preference. Thanks so much for commenting on your experience, and it was my pleasure to share this recipe!
Kayla
November 20, 2013 at 1:08 pmI may not have read down far enough, but has anyone tried this with fennel seeds? Had a heck of a time finding caraway.
The Cozy Apron
November 20, 2013 at 4:48 pmHi Kayla! I would not recommend using fennel seeds, as that will make the flavor completely different, and quite “licorice-y” – not good for this stew. Just omit the caraway seeds altogether if you can’t find them, and you’ll be just fine! Hope you enjoy this one!
Trisha
November 23, 2013 at 5:17 pmI found this recipe on Pinterest awhile ago and I finally tried it. It was delicious! Great recipe, I will definitely make this again.
Heather Duprez
December 21, 2013 at 2:37 pmI made this meal for my family a few months ago. We absolutely loved it, and it is now a family favorite. I am making it again tonight for some family that is coming into town. Delicious!
The Cozy Apron
December 22, 2013 at 8:41 amHi Heather, this is truly the perfect meal to share with family— thanks so much for coming by to share with me that you’re enjoying this recipe so much!
Margaret
December 27, 2013 at 8:08 amThis was amazing!!!! Huge hit, made a few adjustments due to some not liking cabbage and lager, but my substitutions worked wonderfully and I’ve made like 3 times already! Thank you!!
Jessica H
January 3, 2014 at 4:20 pmWhere do you find ground caraway seeds? I’m having trouble grinding them well with my mortar and pestle.
The Cozy Apron
January 3, 2014 at 4:53 pmHi Jessica, if you happen to have a spice or coffee grinder, then that would work great; if they sell the pre-ground seeds, then they’d be there next to the whole. You can just grind them as best as you can – that’s good enough. Leaving them whole would actually be fine, too – no worries.
Lindsay
January 6, 2014 at 10:27 amPlan to try this tonight with kale, smoked turkey sausage, and Sam Adams light lager. ( I try to lighten up with out sacrificing the integrity of the dish) Sounds like a great winter recipe, can’t wait!
Samantha
March 2, 2014 at 6:31 pmI found this recipe through Food-Gawker (LOVE that site) and I am making this tonight for our weekly Charity get together. I have never cooked with beer before, so I am really excited about this one! Also have to make a vegetarian version, thinking maybe tofu and some nice smokey spices. I will let you know how we go
Samantha
March 3, 2014 at 2:29 pmMade this last night, it was so delicious! Also made a vegetarian version with vege sausages, had to add some extra spices but they both turned out really well. We served ours with the bread and cream cheese – I’m putting this in my secret recipe book!
John
April 2, 2014 at 6:08 amThis was amazingly good and so easy!
Made a couple subsitutes because I didn’t have everything around:
-ground cumin instead of caraway seeds.
-light beer
-Morteau sausage (traditional french sausage) instead of beef
The stew cooked quickly, tasted sweet and was truly comforting. Great recipe.
The Cozy Apron
April 2, 2014 at 3:18 pmJohn, how wonderful! Thanks so much for sharing that. So glad you enjoyed, and that the substitutions that you used worked well for you! Thanks for taking a moment to come back and comment.
Malyssa
August 19, 2014 at 4:59 pmIn the process of making this for dinner and it smells & looks amazing!!! We shall see what the husband & step daughter (she was German born & lived there most of her life) think of this! I am very excited 😀 Even made some french bread to go with it!
The Cozy Apron
August 20, 2014 at 5:50 amMalyssa, I hope that you all enjoyed! Thanks so much for sharing with me.
Sharon Spicker
September 25, 2014 at 6:31 pmWe just had this for dinner. It may be the best recipe I’ve gotten from Pinterest yet! Absolutely delicious! Easy to make with on-hand ingredients. The hubster loved it, too. It will be made again – and again!
The Cozy Apron
September 26, 2014 at 9:13 amSharon, that’s wonderful! Especially when the “hubster” loves it, too, right? 🙂 So glad you’re both enjoying this recipe, and I’ll take it as a big compliment that it may be the best recipe you’ve gotten off of Pinterest—how cool!
Michelle
September 27, 2014 at 3:42 pmFall is officially here and the first thing I thought of is this stew! I looked back through all my recipes on Pinterest to find this one again. This time I am printing it for my recipe book! I don’t ever want to lose it!
The Cozy Apron
September 27, 2014 at 4:46 pmHi Michelle, what a precious comment! I’m honored that you thought of this recipe, and that you feel it’s worth having on hand to prepare whenever you feel like it. Hope you enjoy the fall season, and enjoy many bowls of this comfy-cozy stew!
Deb
October 5, 2014 at 4:45 amMaking this tonight- would like to take to a potluck on Tuesday. Does it refrigerate and reheat well?
The Cozy Apron
October 5, 2014 at 9:25 amYes, Deb! And the best part? It’ll actually taste even better—richer, because all of those flavors will have deepened and developed! That’s the beautiful thing about a good stew/soup. Hope you enjoy!
Cyndee
October 5, 2014 at 1:07 pmThank you for this wonderful recipe!! Though… I added carrots because it really felt like they belonged in there!! In fact, they SCREAMED to join the party! 🙂
The Cozy Apron
October 5, 2014 at 9:46 pmMy pleasure! And whatever makes a recipe unique to you is what cooking’s all about, Cyndee—thanks for sharing your twist.
Valerie
October 5, 2014 at 5:09 pmThis recipe is just perfect! Such a wonderful combination of flavors. The only thing I did differently was to add a couple of peeled chopped apples to the pot just when the potatoes were about half way done. It just adds a hint of sweetness, and complements the cabbage and sausage really well. Thanks so much for pinning. I will definitely be making this again!
The Cozy Apron
October 5, 2014 at 9:45 pmGlad you enjoyed, Valerie!
Elizabeth
October 19, 2014 at 5:27 pmMade this tonight after discovering it on Pinterest. It is definitely a keeper! So flavorful and savory! We had pretzel dinner rolls with it, and it was a wonderful compliment. I love that this stew was pretty simple and cheap to make too! Thank you so much!!!!
The Cozy Apron
October 20, 2014 at 5:48 amElizabeth, this is perfect with pretzel dinner rolls—great idea! I’m so glad you this was simple & affordable, and that you and your family enjoyed this!
Cate
October 20, 2014 at 8:48 amI made this for dinner last night and it was amazing!! Thanks for a great recipe!
The Cozy Apron
October 20, 2014 at 2:29 pmMy pleasure, Cate! Thanks for taking a moment to share your experience with me!
Kathi
October 21, 2014 at 11:18 amHi Ingrid! I discovered your site from a makezine posting… Made this stew for dinner last night… it was sooooooooooo wonderful, tasty, hearty, delicious… my family and I loved it! After 4 of us ate, there is just one small serving left- lunch today! Hurray for me!! On your home page, all of your recent posts and recipes, I want to make every single one! Every. Single. One. I am so happy to have found you and our site!! Sooo looking forward to making and serving your amazing recipes! My family and I thank you!! Happy Autumn to you- 🙂
The Cozy Apron
October 21, 2014 at 3:51 pmKathi, your comments made me smile!! Thanks so much for sharing with me your experience, and I’m so very excited that you plan on making all of the recent recipes! Please let me know how things go…. Happy Autumn!! 🙂
skj1026
November 12, 2014 at 3:16 pmHi! I made this recipe last night for dinner! It was quite delicious. I grew up with polish style food, so this had all the right ingredients! Comfort food no doubt and it smelled like heaven while cooking (especially after adding the beer, I used a Yuengling). I was wondering what type of kielbasa you used though, as mine did not have that much flavor. I used beef kielbasa by Hillshire Farms. Did you (or anyone else) try something different? I was hoping for a stronger smokey sausage flavor. Let me know! Thanks:) Sarah
The Cozy Apron
November 13, 2014 at 7:08 amHi! So glad you enjoyed this, and thank you for your comments. I would say that if you’re looking for more smokiness, go the route of a butcher shop and request a nice, smokey kielbasa; they’d know which one the give you. Sometimes when the sausage is prepared in a shop, it’s more pungent and rich. Otherwise, you could always add a very tiny amount of liquid smoke— you can buy that in the seasoning section of most stores. It’s quite potent, so a very small drizzle would give you a bit more of that smokey flavor.
Rachel
November 12, 2014 at 6:52 pmJust made this tonight and my family LOVED it!! 😉 Since they didn’t want cabbage I chopped up a stalk of celery and 2 carrots and it was delish. They actually said they wouldn’t mind trying cabbage in it next time! This one is going in my recipe book, soo glad I found this on pintrest and I cant wait to try more of your recipes. 😉
The Cozy Apron
November 13, 2014 at 7:10 amHi Rachel, that’s great! And if it’s at all possible to make this “as is” with the cabbage, you must try that. (It’s a very different flavor profile with celery and carrot.) So if they’re willing, it would be great if you could actually have the experience of this recipe, as it is! 🙂 So glad you’re going to try more recipes, too.
Martha Vacaflor
November 18, 2014 at 4:51 pmEs la primera vez que cocine este delicioso plato Aleman, que para mi y mi esposo nos encanto un manjar. Por lo menos cocinare una vez por mes, y es facil de hacer gracias mil…
Sherry
November 22, 2014 at 5:57 pmWonderful recipe! Made it this afternoon and it’s delicious. In addition to the smoked sausage, I also used some fresh pork “spicy” kielbasa from the butcher. It wasn’t spicy hot but full of flavor and complements the other ingredients well. I also chopped an apple and added it with the potatoes. Used Sam Adams Winter Lager since I couldn’t get the Oktoberfest variety. I didn’t grind the caraway seeds; just added them whole. We like our soups to be a little thicker than a broth, so I used my immersion blender on some of the potatoes and cabbage, then added a bit of cornstarch. Thanks for the great recipe for a cold fall night!
The Cozy Apron
November 22, 2014 at 8:11 pmSherry, so glad you made this stew your own, and that you and your family enjoyed this! Thanks so much for taking a moment to share your experience with me!
Alexia
January 24, 2015 at 5:10 pmI have never left a comment on a Pinterest recipe before. However, this is by far the best I have ever tried so I had to comment. This stew has never failed thanks to your clear directions. I have some cooking on the stove now & have made it several times before. My husband asks for “the man stew” weekly!! Thanks so much!!!
The Cozy Apron
January 25, 2015 at 9:02 amHi Alexia, that is really, really, awesome! So glad you did take a moment to comment—I truly appreciate it. I’m thrilled that you and your hubby have been enjoying this hearty and warming “man stew” 🙂 so much; and that it has, in a way, become a bit of a staple, now. Thanks for sharing your experience with me!
Angela
January 25, 2015 at 2:44 pmSo I made this and it was Delish!! The only thing is all my liquid basically evaporated after 30 minutes any clue what I did wrong?
The Cozy Apron
January 25, 2015 at 3:20 pmHi Angela! Geesh; without being there with you to watch it being prepared, I can’t really tell you. Did you use enough stock & liquid? (You’ve got the 2 1/2 cups of chicken stock, plus the 1 cup of beer). Did you simmer/boil it too vigorously without a lid, and have everything evaporate out? (It should just be simmered gently after you initially bring it to a boil—a very short time—and then covered with a lid partly askew.)
jessica
March 5, 2015 at 11:36 amMaybe a silly question, but do you think I could sub out the cabbage with sauerkraut? Maybe just omit the vinegar?
The Cozy Apron
March 6, 2015 at 11:55 amHi Jessica, not a silly question at all! Yes, that’d be delicious; and yes, do omit the vinegar. Hope you enjoy!
Sarah
September 13, 2015 at 12:13 pmHi, I apologize if this question was already asked and answered, but do you have any suggestions for a substitute for the beer to make this recipe gluten free? Thanks!
The Cozy Apron
September 13, 2015 at 3:54 pmHi Sarah, I would just leave it out, altogether. This will still be a delicious stew without it!
Joanna
September 28, 2015 at 7:20 amI found this recipe on Pinterest, and I have been saving it for when the evenings cool down here a little. Well, I came down to visit my friend last night, and I made it for us, and it was amazing!! The only things I forgot (because I stopped to get the ingredients in the middle of a two and a half hour drive) were the caraway seeds and the parsley. The stew was awesome without it, and my friend complimented me about 400 times!! It filled us both up, and he said, “This is so good!! There’s ‘bachelor cooking full’, then there’s ‘good old down home cooking full’!” Haha! I did make some Irish soda bread to go with it and left the stew to simmer for 40 minutes, but then we went out to watch the lunar eclipse, and so it probably simmered for more like 70 or 80-ish minutes. It only got better, I think! I used Sam Adams Boston lager and it was great. This was incredibly easy, and it is definitely a keeper. Thank you so much!!
The Cozy Apron
September 28, 2015 at 2:38 pmHi Joanna, so excited that you had success with this! And the pre-cut cabbage is a perfect little short-cut, as well. What an evening you seem to have had—this was a perfect recipe for such an occasion. Thank you so much for taking a minute to come back and comment! 🙂
Joanna
September 28, 2015 at 7:25 amOh! I also forgot to say, for the cabbage, I used a bag of precut “Angel hair cabbage” that was in the produce section, by the bagged salad. It is meant for cole slaw, I think, but it didn’t have the red cabbage or the carrots, it was just green sliced cabbage in a bag. It was way easy and so convenient!!
Michael
October 12, 2015 at 12:55 pmI love how you capture the yumminess of each dish! As a fellow culinarian, I am always on the lookout for a new recipe to share with our residents, I already put this wonderful looking dish on this weeks menu. Thank you so much!
The Cozy Apron
October 12, 2015 at 7:02 pmMichael, I am so touched that you would prepare and share this recipe with your residents—how exciting! And thank you for your kind words. I truly hope that the residents enjoy it, and find some comfort in it! I’d love to know how it turns out. 😉
Michael
October 14, 2015 at 3:53 pmThe residents absolutely loved it and even my cooks were stuffing themselves during the process! Thanks for a real winner. Took some pics if you would like to see? I’ll be back for more recipes.
Julie Mcgonagle
October 19, 2015 at 5:29 pmJust finished this amazing stew! Not only were the flavors incredible, it was so easy to make. Next time I will double the amount of sausage though! Had the stew with some buttered pumpernickle. SO good.
The Cozy Apron
October 19, 2015 at 5:49 pmJulie, that’s great! Glad you enjoyed. Yes, add more sausage if you’d like—and the buttered pumpernickel sounds so yummy!
Jill
October 21, 2015 at 10:31 amI love this stew! It is my go-to recipe this time every year. Like it so much I wrote it down on a recipe card!
The Cozy Apron
October 21, 2015 at 7:05 pmHi Jill, I’m so honored that my recipe got its place on a recipe card, lol! Glad you’re enjoying it!
Lynn
October 30, 2015 at 2:55 pmI used Redbridge gluten free beer in this recipe and it was delicious!
The Cozy Apron
October 31, 2015 at 8:25 amHi Lynn, thank you for including the brand of gluten-free beer you used, as it may help others that are looking for that as an option. Glad you enjoyed the recipe!
Kara
December 3, 2015 at 3:44 pmMade the stew this evening. Is the cabbage supposed to turn the stew purple, cause I’ve got a shade of purple. Lol
The Cozy Apron
December 3, 2015 at 4:54 pmKara, that’s one I haven’t yet heard, lol! 🙂 No, it shouldn’t turn it purple; unless, of course, you used purple (red) cabbage?? Not quite sure why that would happen, but it’s very interesting!
Bets
March 22, 2016 at 6:47 pmThis is a great recipe. I add a whole quart of stock though. Otherwise there’s not enough to soak up with the crusty bread! A keeper for sure. I know it’s German but it speaks to my Slovenian roots.
The Cozy Apron
March 24, 2016 at 4:07 pmHi Bets! So glad you’re enjoying the recipe—good that you added more stock for that bread! 🙂 Thank you for your comments.
Paola
August 21, 2016 at 5:57 pmThis looks delicious. Could potatoes be substituted for the sweet potatoes? Would it give a totally different flavor?
The Cozy Apron
August 21, 2016 at 9:57 pmHi Paola! Unfortunately, the flavor of sweet potatoes does not go well with this soup; it is a very specific flavor profile, and the sweet potatoes would not work. Still, I hope you do give this recipe a try as is!
Melissa
October 14, 2016 at 11:43 pmI veganized this last year for an Oktoberfest party, and the host requested I bring it again this year!! It’s so good!! Just used Tofurkey brand sausages and veggie broth…easy peasy 🙂
The Cozy Apron
October 20, 2016 at 1:25 amMelissa, how fun! I love that even the vegans can enjoy this! Thank you for sharing, and perhaps someone else may benefit from your meatless changes. 😉
Angela
October 25, 2016 at 2:21 amMade this tonight and it was great! Next time I’ll use a spicy sausage. I’m thinking it will be even more delicious tomorrow!
The Cozy Apron
October 25, 2016 at 11:00 pmAngela, glad you enjoyed! And yes, it’s usually super delicious the next several days (if you have much left over, that is!) once all those flavors meld together.
Angela
December 27, 2017 at 9:23 amThis is still one of our favorites. It’s cold and rainy outside and we’re all a little bit sick, so I have a pot of this simmering on the stove and it’s going to be just what the doctor ordered.
The Cozy Apron
December 27, 2017 at 2:38 pmHi Angela, so glad you’re finding some comfort in this stew again this year! 🙂 I hope you all feel better—I”m sure the hot stew will help with that. (We’re a little sick, too… Tis the season, unfortunately!) Happy New Year to you and yours!
Paula
November 13, 2016 at 10:22 pmThank you for sharing the delicious recipe!!! It was perfect on this chilly, fall day!
The Cozy Apron
November 14, 2016 at 1:37 amPaula, my pleasure! So glad you enjoyed!
Wayne S.
February 15, 2017 at 10:46 pmMade for dinner tonight. My wife and I loved it. Outstanding!
The Cozy Apron
February 17, 2017 at 2:04 amWayne, I’m thrilled both you and your wife enjoyed this warming and comforting stew! Thanks so much for stopping by to share your experience with me!
Lola
February 24, 2017 at 5:09 amSooooo I’m addicted. I make this every other week if not weekly while I brave the winter here in South Korea. I never thought I could love cabbage more than in the traditional fried state, for a US southern born girl. Needless to say I love it. Thank you for this recipe.
The Cozy Apron
February 25, 2017 at 5:23 pmI’m thrilled you’ve been finding such comfort in this recipe! So glad to know that… 🙂 I appreciate you sharing your comments with me, and may you continued to find pleasure in preparing it!
Erika Sullivan
August 15, 2017 at 6:39 amSo, what is the yield on this recipe? How many servings does it make? I’m having an Oktoberfest theme party next month and this looks super delicious and easy to make…I will be making it the night prior to make sure it’s as yummy as it looks but, want to make sure it will be enough for everyone to try some. I just need to know if I need to double, triple, QUADRUPLE it. LOL
The Cozy Apron
August 15, 2017 at 12:46 pmHi Erika, thanks for bringing the mess-up to our attention—yes, quantity would be nice to know, lol! So it serves 4-6; 4 if you’re eating entre size portion, or 6 slightly smaller. Hope you enjoy your party!
Chuck Anderson
September 3, 2017 at 4:59 pmHi, Ingrid,
Because of the wildly positive reviews, I’ll be serving your bratwurst stew at our volunteers potluck this month in advance of Oregon’s Alpenfest, the only Swiss-Bavarian festival in the western U.S. Our festival is like an Oktoberfest but with Swiss yodeling and alphorns.
The Cozy Apron
September 3, 2017 at 5:34 pmHi Chuck, that sounds amazing! How fun! And I’m truly honored to have you serve this recipe for the volunteers…I hope everyone enjoys it. 😊
Ashley in Alaska
September 18, 2017 at 2:32 pmJust popping in to say that I have looked forward to this recipe and making it every fall for years now! It’s a perfectly rainy, cool day here in Anchorage, AK and this stew is exactly what I am craving. 🙂 Also—I’m Czechoslovakian too! Well, more Czech I guess you would say, but still.
The Cozy Apron
September 18, 2017 at 4:47 pmHi Ashley, what a small world! I’m thrilled that you’ve been enjoying this stew for as long as you have—that makes me so happy to know that, and I appreciate you sharing. Glad it offers you comfort on those cold and rainy days. Happy cooking to you! 😊
Kelly
September 30, 2017 at 10:39 amHi,
About to try this for the first time. Does it freeze well? Want to make it ahead of a family event for next weekend.
The Cozy Apron
September 30, 2017 at 11:27 amHi Kelly, I’m so excited you’re making this! I have not personally frozen it, but with most soups/stews, they tend to freeze just fine. Another option is that if you make it a couple days in advance of when you plan on serving it, you would’t actually have to freeze it, and the flavor would be amazing with a couples days under it’s belt. But if that’s not an option, feel free to freeze. Hope you enjoy!
Chris
October 14, 2017 at 2:34 pmHi, what do you mean by “hot chicken stock”?
The Cozy Apron
October 14, 2017 at 2:39 pmHi Chris, “hot” as in temperature, so warmed up chicken stock. 😁
Chris
October 14, 2017 at 2:48 pmThanks for the quick response…
Julee
October 18, 2017 at 4:00 pmI just made this today, I made it in the morning to give it a little extra time for the flavors to develop like you suggested. It is amazing!! And not very difficult to make. I used brats as my meat, but I’m sure it will be just as good with the beef. Thank you so much for this perfect October meal 😊
The Cozy Apron
October 18, 2017 at 5:03 pmAw, so glad you enjoyed this and found some comfort & coziness in it, Julee! And thank you for taking the time to share your experience with me.
Jodi Scarboro
November 7, 2017 at 5:38 pmWow!!! Made this stew tonight and just wanted to say “Thank you so much”! This recipe is not like any soups or stews I have made previously so I was unsure how my family would like it but if was a huge hit!! I found your recipe on Pinterest and I believe it’s the best recipe I have ever made from that site!
Again, thank you so much for sharing this with us!
The Cozy Apron
November 7, 2017 at 7:16 pmHi Jodi! I am so, so touched by your comment! I cannot tell you how happy I am that the stew turned out to be such a success for you—when the family loves dinner, nothing compares to that! 😉I’m honored by your words, and I truly, truly hope you give more of our recipes a try! I think you’ll enjoy…
Sarah
November 10, 2017 at 9:32 amI have been wanting to make this recipe for the past 2 autumns, but have been pregnant each time, and it was at the stage where I couldn’t stand any cooking smells!!! Finally able to try it this year, but was wondering if you have any recommendations for a substitute for the cabbage? I love cabbage, but my husband does not, and I really want him to enjoy this. Especially since I’ve been building up the expectation of making it for two years 🙂 Thank you!
The Cozy Apron
November 10, 2017 at 1:50 pmHi Sarah, that is precious! What a patient gal you’ve been, waiting this whole time! You know, there really is not a proper substitution for the cabbage; it truly is a star of this stew, but let me tell you this: it is not strong tasting at all; it sort of “melts” into the stew. There have been others who had some “picky eaters” they were cooking for, and they let me know that they loved this stew, cabbage and all. So I would implore you to really prepare this recipe as is, because, a) you’ve been craving it for 2 years! and b) I have a feeling that your hubby may just end up enjoying the stew, as it is.
Carol Dowd
November 17, 2017 at 6:57 amSince we only have my mother in law for Thanksgiving, I’ve decided to have this delicious stew for Thanksgiving dinner! I made it before and thought it would be so much easier. My mother in law and husband are looking forward to it.
The Cozy Apron
November 17, 2017 at 11:11 amCarol, I am so touched that this recipe will be your Thanksgiving Day meal! I will be thinking of you all, hoping that each of you will be made warm & cozy by it! Thank you for sharing your comments.
collette
December 31, 2017 at 5:19 amDo you think substituting kraut for the cabbage would work for this recipe?
The Cozy Apron
December 31, 2017 at 11:51 amHi Collette, wonderful question! You absolutely can, just know it will bring quite a lot of tanginess. I personally would rinse it a little bit, or if you use it straight, perhaps skip adding the vinegar at the end (or at least taste it first before adding it in). Hope you enjoy!
Rose
January 6, 2018 at 1:28 pmI loved this stew and this is my second time making it in a month. I followed the recipe as written, except I used 4 cups of chicken stock. I will definitely make it again and have passed the recipe onto several neighbors.
The Cozy Apron
January 7, 2018 at 8:46 amRose, that is wonderful, and thank you so much for passing the recipe along to others; we always appreciate it when readers share The Cozy Apron and help spread the word! May you continue to enjoy it and be comforted!
Peg
August 11, 2018 at 1:24 pmYum!
I changed this up only a tee~tiny bit. Followed it to a T except I crock~potted it…I’ll let you know! Thank~you for what seems to be a delicious recipe to come! We are vinegar folks so I can’t wait!
Peg
The Cozy Apron
August 12, 2018 at 1:53 pmHi Peg, hope you enjoyed!
Amanda
September 15, 2018 at 10:29 amHello! I’ve made this before and LOVED it. Question: could I substitute ground pork sausage for smoked sausage? I have extra on hand and would love to make this soup again.
The Cozy Apron
September 15, 2018 at 10:44 amHi Amanda, so glad you’ve been enjoying the recipe!
Yes, absolutely! You can use whatever kind of sausage you like, or have on hand; it’ll be delicious, I’m sure! Keep in mind the flavor will, of course, be a little different; but I think it’ll be quite tasty.
Happy cooking!
Jade
October 2, 2018 at 3:08 pmHi! I never usually comment on recipes, but I have to tell you Oktoberfest stew has become a tradition in our house! I’ve made this stew every October (and throughout the fall season) going on 5 years now. My fiance and the rest of my family always asks every autumn when I’ll be making it again. Thanks for helping start a great tradition 🙂
The Cozy Apron
October 2, 2018 at 4:57 pmJade, you made my heart smile! So glad you and your family have been enjoying the recipe for such a long time—it tends to make this season extra cozy and delicious! 🙂
I really appreciate the fact that you took the time to share your comments with me, as they truly mean so much. I love to read that folks have success with my recipes, and that they are comforted and nourished by them!
Grant
October 21, 2018 at 5:51 pmI am in love with this stew, pretty sure it’s the best recipe I’ve made off of Pinterest. I used Johnsonville beer brats instead of smoked sausage though. Thanks for sharing and making my belly full.
The Cozy Apron
October 21, 2018 at 6:02 pmHi Grant, what a compliment!
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and share with me that you’re enjoying this warming stew so much. I truly appreciate it!
And the beer brats sound like a perfect substitution to keep that “beer” theme going. Here’s to happy and full bellies, indeed! 😉
Gina
October 24, 2018 at 10:39 pmAbsolutely fantastic recipe! I cannot say enough good things about this. My most picky eater, 10 year daughter, declared it the best meal ever. I used Johnsonville brats, and I cut them up in pieces and browned and crisped all chunks and followed the rest of the recipe. Delightful! Will be repeating often.
The Cozy Apron
October 25, 2018 at 12:19 pmGina, my heart is so full to read that!
Ah…I especially appreciate hearing when the little ones enjoy a recipe; and this stew in particular is quite an interesting one for a 10 year old to like! Job well done, mom! 😉
So glad that you and your family received some cozy comfort from it. Thanks for sharing!
Sheridan
November 1, 2018 at 12:11 pmI added fresh dill and German mustard and it was AMAZING!
The Cozy Apron
November 1, 2018 at 2:12 pmOoh, that sounds super tasty Sheridan! Thanks for sharing, and glad you enjoyed!
Yves Tremblay-Barris
November 1, 2018 at 8:06 pmI made this soup with my husband’s homemade beer! It was a good peasant soup! We both tried a spoon and put it away to eat the next day. Our oldest son ate it all for lunch and an early dinner before we could eat it …. we got NONE of it!
Ingrid Beer
November 1, 2018 at 8:44 pmOh my! Hope you enjoyed that spoonful, at least!
This simply means you will have to make more…and maybe this time, you should hide it somewhere in the back of the fridge, at least until you have a bowl! 😉
And I bet that homemade beer was amazing in it…
Erik
December 4, 2018 at 5:30 pmMade this for my fiancé and it was a hit. Made it again about two weeks later for some friends and it was a hit again. Super easy and the perfect comfort food on a cold fall evening. Thanks so much.
The Cozy Apron
December 4, 2018 at 8:20 pmErik, I love it when there’s “hit” after “hit”, lol! 😉
So glad the recipe has been such a tasty success for you, and I’m grateful you came back to share your experience with me. It makes me so happy, especially when someone shares it with friends and family, and they, too, end up enjoying it.
May you and your loved ones continue to find pleasure, comfort, warmth and nourishment from it! Happy cooking!
Angela
December 29, 2018 at 5:55 pmI just want to say that I have to make this every New Years Day! The first time I made it was in 2016. It is now a tradition. It is even better the next day!!
The Cozy Apron
December 29, 2018 at 6:15 pmAngela, I’m so touched to have a recipe of mine be a part of your New Year’s Day tradition—how awesome is that?!
Thank you for sharing this with me, and here’s sending you lots of good vibes for nourishment, coziness and comfort when you partake of this stew again in the next couple of days. Happy cooking to you, and Happy New Year!