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5 from 1 vote

Authentic Grünkohl & Pinkel (German Kale Stew with Sausage)

A hearty German kale stew loaded with smoky sausages, tender kale, and potatoes. Perfect for warming up on chilly days!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 30 minutes
Course: Main Course, Stew
Cuisine: German, Northern German
Keyword: German Sausage, Grünkohl, Kale Stew, Pinkel
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Equipment

  • Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs fresh curly kale stems removed and chopped
  • 6 slices bacon diced
  • 2 medium onions finely chopped
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 6 Pinkel sausages or smoked sausages of choice
  • 6 small potatoes peeled and halved
  • 1 tbsp mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Prepare the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the kale for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. Chop finely and set aside.
    2 lbs fresh curly kale
  • Sauté Bacon and Onions: In a large Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it releases its fat and begins to crisp. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
    6 slices bacon, 2 medium onions
  • Add Kale and Broth: Stir in the chopped kale. Add mustard and pour in the broth. Stir well to combine.
    2 cups beef or vegetable broth, 1 tbsp mustard
  • Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  • Add Potatoes and Sausages: Nestle the halved potatoes and sausages into the stew. Cover and continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
    6 Pinkel sausages, 6 small potatoes
  • Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, ensuring everyone gets a bit of kale, potato, and sausage.
    Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Notes

  • Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
  • Tip: This dish often tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
  • Variations: Add oats or barley to the stew for extra heartiness.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 1000mg | Potassium: 1000mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 15000IU | Vitamin C: 150mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 5mg