Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Sausage with Apple Sauerkraut while diving into the intriguing world of 'The Night Circus' by Erin Morgenstern. This dish pairs perfectly with the magical and mysterious themes of the book and is excellently complemented by the classic taste of a Cranberry Mimosa. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors alongside the enchanting read and refreshing drink creates a harmonious experience that warms the soul and sparks the imagination.
Ingredients
- 4-6 sausages (such as bratwurst or kielbasa)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausages: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside.
- Cook the Onions and Apples: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the apple slices and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften as well.
- Add the Sauerkraut: Stir in the sauerkraut, apple cider or apple juice, brown sugar, and caraway seeds (if using). Mix everything together until well combined.
- Simmer the Dish: Nestle the browned sausages back into the skillet on top of the sauerkraut mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve: Taste the sauerkraut mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the sausages with the apple sauerkraut on the side, and enjoy a cozy, flavorful meal!
The Night Circus
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern is a captivating and atmospheric tale of a magical circus that appears only at night and enthralls its visitors. Full of mystery and wonder, the story follows the lives of two young illusionists involved in a supernatural competition that transforms the circus into the battleground for their mysterious challenge.
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Two starcrossed magicians engage in a deadly game of cunning in the spellbinding novel that captured the world's imagination. • "Part love story, part fable … defies both genres and expectations." —The Boston Globe The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night. But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway: a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them both, this is a game in which only one can be left standing. Despite the high stakes, Celia and Marco soon tumble headfirst into love, setting off a domino effect of dangerous consequences, and leaving the lives of everyone, from the performers to the patrons, hanging in the balance.
Discussion Questions
- What role does the circus itself play in the lives of the characters?
- How does Erin Morgenstern use magic as a metaphor in the book?
- Discuss the importance of color in the descriptions of the circus.
- How do the twin themes of illusion and reality contribute to the novel's impact?
- What do you think the competition between Marco and Celia represents?
- How does the novel portray the idea of sacrifice?
- Discuss the development of friendship and rivalry throughout the story.
- What is the significance of the clockmaker and his creation?
- How do dreams and aspirations drive the characters?
- What impact does the setting have on the overall narrative and mood of the book?
Authors:
Erin Morgenstern
ISBN: 0307744434
Publisher: Vintage
Published Date: 2011-09-13
Cranberry Mimosa
A light and refreshing cocktail that's perfect for enjoying alongside the savory-sweet notes of Sausage with Apple Sauerkraut. The Cranberry Mimosa adds a sparkling touch to your dining experience, with tart cranberry blending harmoniously with the crisp bubbles of champagne, ideal for a festive occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cranberry juice
- 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
- 1/4 cup champagne or sparkling wine
- Cranberries and orange wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Pour cranberry juice and orange liqueur into a champagne flute.
- Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
- Garnish with cranberries and an orange wheel.