Mock Bratwurst in Beer

Bavarian seasoning is a mix of a blend of Bavarian-style crushed brown mustard seeds, French rosemary, garlic, Dalmatian sage, French thyme, and bay leaves. The Spice House (www.thespicehouse.com) has a salt-free Bavarian Seasoning Blend that is appropriate for this recipe.

Serves 8

Ingredients:

• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 1 (1-pound) bag baby carrots
• 1 large onion, peeled and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 4 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
• 1 (3-pound) boneless turkey breast
• 1 (2-pound) bag sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
• 8 medium red potatoes, washed and pierced
• 1 (12-ounce) can beer
• 1 tablespoon Bavarian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Add the ingredients to the slow cooker in the order given. Note that the liquid amount needed will depend on how wet the sauerkraut is when you add it. The liquid should come up halfway and cover the turkey breast, with the sauerkraut and potatoes being above the liquid line. Add more beer if necessary. Slow-cook on low for 8 hours. Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve hot.

Bavarian Seasoning Substitution

You can substitute a tablespoon of stone-ground mustard along with ¼ teaspoon each of rosemary, garlic powder, sage, and thyme. Add a bay leaf (that will need to be removed before you serve the meal). Just before serving, taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary.