Oktoberfest Chili

An Oktoberfest twist on a classic chili – spicy, hearty and flavorful, made with bratwurst and sauerkraut.

This post is sponsored by Frank’s Sauerkraut.  All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for continuing to support the brands that make An Affair from the Heart possible.

Can you smell it?  Oktoberfest is in the air … time for delicious foods, and beers that come around once a year.  Time for sweatshirts and football and tailgating.  Time to indulge in a new Oktoberfest recipe, made with our favorite, Frank’s Kraut!

“Oktoberfest began on October 12, 1810 with the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig, who later became King Ludwig I. His marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen was celebrated in Bavaria. On October 17, five days after the marriage, a large fest was held in front of the Sendlinger Tor, one of the gates leading to Munich.  Included in the festivities were horse races that became an Oktoberfest custom lasting until 1938.  In 1811 an agricultural fair was added and by 1818 beer pubs were included along with performers. It became a great tourist attraction and a way for visitors to learn about Bavaria and its people.”

Today, Oktoberfest begins in September, to take advantage of the better weather.  It begins on a Saturday in September and runs through the first weekend in October.  This year it begins on September 16 and runs through October 3, 2017.   Oktoberfest celebrations include lots of music, dancing, beer tents and of course, LOTS of German food!  {learn more about Oktoberfest and where it originated at Delaware Saengerbund Library } 

This chili is perfect for celebrating, whether you are gathered at home, or at your favorite tailgate, this one needs to hit the menu this month!  It’s got traditional chili components, like lots of beans, and that heat we all crave, but it starts with bratwurst and later the addition of sauerkraut adds a fun and flavorful twist.

Look at all of that goodness right there!

Did you know that Sauerkraut is a natural immune booster?  One of the not-so-secret benefits of sauerkraut is the boost it gives to our immune systems. Kraut is loaded with vitamins and minerals, and has been used as a natural immune booster for centuries. Sauerkraut contains phytochemicals which are created during the fermentation process. Phytochemicals occur naturally and are beneficial byproducts of sauerkraut that help boost the immune system which leads to a decrease in a number of health problems. The common cold, skin problems, weight gain and tainted blood are all fixed by a healthy functioning immune system.  Learn More about the health benefits of including sauerkraut in your diet.

If you have never had the pleasure of trying Frank’s Kraut, you really need to.  My heritage is Polish and German, and it’s the only sauerkraut my grandparents and parents ever bought.  Working with them is such a delight.  They are such an awesome company!  Interested in seeing some of the great kraut recipes we have collaborated on through the years??

Pop over and take a peek!

#AllTheKraut Recipes

 

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