Air Fryer Sauerkraut Balls: A Tasty, Healthy Treat

Sauerkraut balls are a popular snack with German origins. They are made from a mixture of sauerkraut, ground meat, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings. The traditional method of cooking them is deep-frying, but can you make sauerkraut balls in an air fryer?

The answer is yes! Using an air fryer to make sauerkraut balls is a great way to achieve crispy, golden-brown perfection without the mess and health concerns of deep frying. Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior with less oil absorption. This makes sauerkraut balls a healthier indulgence.

To make sauerkraut balls in an air fryer, simply combine the ingredients, shape them into small balls, and air fry until golden brown. The cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the model of your air fryer, but generally, you'll want to cook them at around 375-400°F (190-200°C) for 10-20 minutes.

So, if you're looking for a delicious snack with a tangy, salty kick, give air-fried sauerkraut balls a try! They're sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering.

Ingredients and preparation

Sauerkraut balls are a delicious and versatile snack with a tangy, salty, and creamy flavour. They can be made in an air fryer, deep-fried, or baked in an oven. Here is a detailed guide on how to make them using an air fryer.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of sauerkraut (drained and finely chopped)
• Optional: 1 cup of cooked and crumbled sausage or ground beef
• 1/2 cup of chopped onion
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder or 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and chopped sauerkraut, cooked sausage or ground beef (if using), shredded cheddar cheese (if using), softened cream cheese (if using), onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, mustard (if using), caraway seeds (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Form the Balls

Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and mould them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. You can make them larger or smaller, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Set Up for Breading

Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place flour, kosher salt, and pepper (if using this combination). In the second dish, place the beaten eggs. In the third dish, place the breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip them in the beaten egg, and finally, roll them in the breadcrumbs until well coated.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This temperature will ensure your sauerkraut balls cook evenly and become crispy on the outside while remaining moist and flavourful on the inside.

Step 5: Air Fry the Balls

Place the breaded sauerkraut balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Air fry for 10-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your balls and your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them and adjust the timing accordingly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sauerkraut balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best served hot with your favourite dipping sauce, such as spicy mustard, honey mustard, Russian dressing, ranch dressing, or a creamy horseradish sauce.

Tips:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
• Experiment with different spices, herbs, or cheeses to suit your taste.
• You can freeze both cooked and uncooked sauerkraut balls.

Enjoy your homemade sauerkraut balls!

Air fryer settings

Most air fryers have temperature settings ranging from 300°F to 400°F (150°C to 200°C). For sauerkraut balls, it is recommended to set the air fryer within the higher range, at 375°F to 400°F (190°C) to 200°C. This high temperature will ensure the sauerkraut balls cook evenly, achieving the desired crispiness while maintaining a juicy interior.

The cooking time for sauerkraut balls in an air fryer can vary depending on factors such as the size and thickness of the balls, as well as your specific air fryer model. As a general guideline, cooking sauerkraut balls at 375°F to 400°F for 10 to 20 minutes should yield desirable results. However, it is crucial to monitor the cooking process and adjust the time accordingly. For instance, if your sauerkraut balls are on the larger side or you prefer a crispier texture, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

To ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness, it is important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, allowing sufficient space between the sauerkraut balls for proper air circulation. Additionally, flipping the balls halfway through the cooking process will ensure even browning on all sides and enhance the overall texture.

For the best results, preheat your air fryer for about 5 minutes before placing the sauerkraut balls inside. This initial heating ensures the appliance reaches the desired temperature, providing a consistent cooking environment for your delicious sauerkraut balls.

Cooking process

Sauerkraut balls are a delicious and flavourful snack, perfect for parties or gatherings. They are also a great way to bring the comfort of home cooking to your dining table. The process of making sauerkraut balls in an air fryer is quite simple and can be done in a few easy steps. Here is a detailed guide to help you achieve the perfect sauerkraut balls:

Ingredients

Firstly, gather your ingredients. The basic ingredients you will need are:

• Sauerkraut (drained and chopped)
• Cooked and crumbled sausage or ground beef (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Softened cream cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Beaten eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

You can also experiment with additional ingredients such as garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or shredded cheese to enhance the flavour of your sauerkraut balls.

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and chopped sauerkraut, cooked sausage or ground beef (if using), shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix well until everything is combined. You can adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Form the Balls

Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and mould them into balls. The size of the balls can be customised to your preference, but they are typically about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 3: Set Up for Breading

Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, whisk together the egg and milk. And in the third dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each ball into the flour, coating it evenly, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs until well coated. This step will give your sauerkraut balls a crispy crust.

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving the best results. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat it for about 5 minutes. This temperature is ideal for cooking sauerkraut balls.

Step 2: Place the Balls in the Air Fryer

Place the coated sauerkraut balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Leave some space between them to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

Step 3: Air Fry the Balls

Cook the sauerkraut balls in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes. It is recommended to flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your sauerkraut balls and the specific model of your air fryer, so it is important to keep an eye on them and adjust the timing accordingly.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

To ensure your sauerkraut balls are fully cooked, check their internal temperature using a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe for consumption.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the sauerkraut balls are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot with your favourite dipping sauce, such as spicy mustard, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a creamy horseradish sauce.

Tips for Perfect Sauerkraut Balls:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
• Flip the sauerkraut balls halfway through the cooking process for even browning on all sides.
• Experiment with different spices and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• You can also add a light spray of cooking oil before air frying for an extra crispy exterior.

Tips for perfect sauerkraut balls

Don't Overcrowd the Basket

Leaving enough space between the sauerkraut balls will help ensure they cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. It's better to cook in batches to ensure optimal crispiness.

Flip Them Halfway Through

Flipping the sauerkraut balls halfway through the cooking process will help ensure they cook evenly on all sides and enhance their overall texture and crispiness.

Experiment with Seasonings

Feel free to experiment with various spices and herbs. Adding garlic powder, paprika, or even a bit of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavour profile of your sauerkraut balls.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

Sauerkraut balls pair beautifully with various sauces. Offer mustard, ranch dressing, or a zesty dipping sauce to accompany them at your gatherings.

Check for Doneness

To ensure your sauerkraut balls are fully cooked, check their internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The balls should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption.

Storing and reheating

Refrigeration

Allow the sauerkraut balls to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note that the texture may soften slightly when refrigerated.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked sauerkraut balls. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the sauerkraut balls back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or until heated thoroughly. This will help maintain their crispy exterior and delicious flavour. You can also reheat them in the oven or a frying pan, but they may not get as crispy.

Frequently asked questions