What is Kassler, and how do I cook It?

Kassler, a beloved German speciality, is a cured and smoked cut of pork, often from the loin or ribs. Its smoky, salty flavour makes it a popular choice across Europe, and it’s starting to gain recognition in the UK for its versatility and unique taste. At Farmfetch, we offer high-quality Kassler that brings this traditional German dish straight to your kitchen.

What is Kassler?

Kassler is pork that has been cured, typically with a salt brine, and then smoked to give it a rich, slightly tangy flavour. While commonly associated with German cuisine, its appeal goes beyond its origins due to its robust taste and ease of preparation. Kassler is similar in texture to ham but has a deeper, smokier flavour, making it perfect for pairing with various side dishes, from mashed potatoes to sautéed greens.

How to cook Kassler

One of the best things about Kassler is how easy it is to cook. It’s already cured and smoked, so it only needs gentle heating. Whether you pan-fry, bake, or grill it, the cooking process is simple and quick.

Here’s a straightforward method to get the best out of your Kassler:

Pan-frying Kassler

1. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil or butter.
2. Place your Kassler steaks or slices in the pan.
3. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
4. Serve with your favourite sides, such as mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, or steamed vegetables.

Because Kassler is pre-cooked, it only needs to be heated thoroughly rather than cooked from raw, making it a convenient option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Recipe: Kassler with sauerkraut and potatoes

Here’s a simple, classic way to enjoy Kassler:

Ingredients:

• 2 Kassler steaks
• 300g Sauerkraut
• 400g new potatoes
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Method:

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat the butter and fry the Kassler for 4-5 minutes on each side.
3. Heat the sauerkraut in a separate pan, adding caraway seeds if desired.
4. Serve the Kassler alongside the sauerkraut and boiled potatoes, garnished with parsley.

This simple dish brings out the best in Kassler, with the tang of sauerkraut complementing its smoky flavour perfectly.

At Farmfetch, we’re proud to offer premium Kassler. Adding Kassler to your repertoire opens the door to a range of delicious, quick meals.