Aldi German Week September Finds: Delicious Recipes to Celebrate!
Aldi’s German Week is a much-anticipated event each year, and for good reason! It’s a fantastic opportunity to stock up on unique and delicious German food products at incredibly affordable prices. This September’s Aldi Finds did not disappoint, overflowing with everything from savory sausages and hearty breads to sweet treats and flavorful sauces. But what do you *do* with all these goodies once you get them home? Fear not! This article is your ultimate guide to creating mouthwatering recipes using your Aldi German Week haul. We’ll explore several dishes, offering detailed steps and instructions to help you bring the taste of Germany into your kitchen. Get ready to embrace the gemütlichkeit!
Understanding Aldi German Week
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s briefly cover what Aldi German Week is all about. Twice a year, typically in the spring and fall, Aldi stores across the United States feature a special selection of German-inspired food items. These products are usually available for a limited time only, making them highly sought after by Aldi shoppers. You’ll find everything from traditional German sausages like bratwurst and knackwurst to specialty cheeses, pretzels, spaetzle, cakes, and even beverages. The offerings vary slightly each year, but you can always expect a delightful array of flavors and ingredients. It’s important to note that Aldi Finds are only available while supplies last, so if you spot something you want to try, grab it quickly!
Must-Have Aldi German Week Finds for Cooking
While the exact products change seasonally, here are some staple Aldi German Week items that lend themselves perfectly to creating authentic and flavorful German dishes:
* **Bratwurst and Knackwurst:** These classic German sausages are incredibly versatile. They can be grilled, pan-fried, or even simmered in beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.
* **Spaetzle:** These soft egg noodles are a German staple, often served as a side dish or incorporated into hearty casseroles.
* **Sauerkraut:** This fermented cabbage adds a tangy and slightly sour flavor to many German dishes.
* **German Mustard:** From sweet and mild to spicy and robust, German mustard is a must-have condiment for sausages and sandwiches.
* **Pretzels:** Soft or hard, pretzels are a perfect snack or accompaniment to a German meal. They can also be used in creative ways in recipes.
* **German Cheeses:** Look for varieties like Emmental, Gouda, and Havarti for adding creamy and nutty flavors to your dishes.
* **Jager Sauce (Hunter’s Sauce):** This rich mushroom-based sauce is delicious served over meat or spaetzle.
* **Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer):** These are often found frozen and are a simple treat that are easy to prepare and customize.
* **Strudel:** While often sweet, strudel can be either savory or sweet. Look for both apple strudel and savory strudel options with meat or vegetable fillings.
* **German Chocolate:** Don’t forget the dessert! Indulge in German chocolate bars, cookies, and cakes.
* **Pickled Herring/Rollmops:** A classic German appetizer, this can be used to create some tasty side dishes.
Recipe 1: Classic Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and Mustard
This is perhaps the most iconic German dish, and it’s incredibly easy to make using Aldi German Week finds.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi German Week Bratwurst
* 1 jar Aldi German Week Sauerkraut
* Aldi German Week German Mustard (your choice of variety)
* Bratwurst Rolls (optional)
* Onion (optional), sliced
* Butter or oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bratwurst:** There are several ways to cook bratwurst:
* **Grilling:** Grill the bratwurst over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
* **Pan-Frying:** Heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the bratwurst and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning frequently, until browned and cooked through. Again, check the internal temperature.
* **Simmering in Beer:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, add bratwurst and cover with your favorite beer (pilsner or lager works well). Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through. This method adds a delicious flavor and keeps the bratwurst moist.
2. **Prepare the Sauerkraut:**
* **Rinsing (Optional):** Some people prefer to rinse the sauerkraut before cooking it to remove some of the sourness. This is a matter of personal preference.
* **Heating:** You can heat the sauerkraut in a saucepan over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. For added flavor, you can sauté some sliced onion in butter or oil before adding the sauerkraut. A touch of brown sugar or apple cider vinegar can also enhance the flavor.
3. **Assemble the Dish:**
* Serve the bratwurst on a plate or in a bratwurst roll. Top with sauerkraut and a generous dollop of your favorite Aldi German Week mustard.
* If desired, add some sautéed onions.
* Serve with a side of German potato salad (if available during Aldi German Week) or your favorite side dish.
**Tips & Variations:**
* For a richer flavor, simmer the bratwurst in beer *and* then grill or pan-fry them for a crispy skin.
* Add caraway seeds to the sauerkraut for a more traditional flavor.
* Experiment with different types of Aldi German Week mustard to find your favorite pairing.
* Serve with German potato salad or a simple green salad.
Recipe 2: Creamy Spaetzle with Jager Sauce (Hunter’s Sauce)
Spaetzle is a versatile German noodle that’s perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces. This recipe combines it with Aldi’s Jager Sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi German Week Spaetzle (dried or refrigerated)
* 1 jar Aldi German Week Jager Sauce (Hunter’s Sauce)
* Butter or oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
* Onion, chopped (optional)
* Mushrooms, sliced (optional)
* Heavy cream or sour cream (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Spaetzle:**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the spaetzle and cook according to the package directions. Fresh spaetzle usually cooks in just a few minutes, while dried spaetzle may take longer.
* Drain the spaetzle and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Jager Sauce:**
* In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of butter or oil over medium heat. If desired, sauté chopped onion and sliced mushrooms until softened.
* Add the Aldi German Week Jager Sauce to the saucepan and heat through, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water or broth to thin it out. For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream at the end.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Combine and Serve:**
* Add the cooked spaetzle to the saucepan with the Jager Sauce and toss to coat.
* Heat through gently.
* Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add cooked bratwurst or other German sausage to the spaetzle and Jager Sauce for a heartier meal.
* Stir in some grated German cheese, such as Emmental or Gouda, for added flavor and richness.
* Use vegetable broth instead of water to thin the sauce for a vegetarian option.
* Roast some vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes to serve alongside the spaetzle.
Recipe 3: German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer) with Apple Sauce
Aldi’s German Week often features frozen potato pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer), which are a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic German treat. Pair them with applesauce for a sweet and savory combination.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi German Week Frozen Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)
* Applesauce (store-bought or homemade)
* Oil or butter for frying
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
* Cinnamon or sugar (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Potato Pancakes:**
* Heat a tablespoon or two of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
* Add the frozen potato pancakes to the skillet and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
* Remove the potato pancakes from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
2. **Serve:**
* Serve the potato pancakes warm with applesauce.
* Optional toppings include sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon or sugar.
**Tips & Variations:**
* If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own potato pancakes from scratch. There are many recipes available online.
* Serve the potato pancakes with savory toppings, such as smoked salmon or cream cheese and chives, for a non-traditional twist.
* Add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the applesauce for extra flavor.
* Make a simple salad of mixed greens to serve alongside for a more balanced meal.
Recipe 4: German-Inspired Pretzel Crust Pizza
Who says pretzels are just for snacking? Get creative and use Aldi’s German Week pretzels to create a unique and delicious pizza crust.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi German Week Hard Pretzels (or soft pretzels, slightly dried out)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* Pizza sauce
* Shredded mozzarella cheese
* Toppings of your choice (consider German sausage, sauerkraut, onions, peppers, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pretzel Crust:**
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Place pretzels in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Alternatively, place pretzels in a large zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
* In a bowl, combine the ground pretzels, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix well.
* Press the pretzel mixture into a greased 9-inch pie plate or pizza pan to form a crust.
* Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
2. **Assemble the Pizza:**
* Spread pizza sauce over the pretzel crust.
* Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
* Add your desired toppings. For a German-inspired pizza, consider using cooked German sausage (such as bratwurst or kielbasa), sauerkraut, onions, and peppers.
3. **Bake the Pizza:**
* Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. **Serve:**
* Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* For a spicier crust, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pretzel mixture.
* Use a variety of German cheeses, such as Emmental or Gouda, for a more authentic flavor.
* Brush the crust with garlic butter before adding the toppings for extra flavor.
* Consider a white garlic sauce instead of the traditional tomato sauce.
Recipe 5: Sweet Treat: Quick Apple Strudel with Aldi Puff Pastry
Finish your German feast with a simple and delicious apple strudel made with Aldi’s puff pastry. This recipe is perfect for using up those Aldi German Week apples.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Aldi Puff Pastry, thawed
* 3-4 Aldi German Week Apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Apple Filling:**
* In a bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, raisins (if using), and chopped nuts (if using). Mix well.
2. **Assemble the Strudel:**
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet.
* Brush the puff pastry with melted butter.
* Spoon the apple filling onto the center of the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
* Fold one side of the puff pastry over the filling, then fold the other side over to create a strudel shape. Pinch the edges to seal.
* Brush the top of the strudel with melted butter.
3. **Bake the Strudel:**
* Place the strudel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
* Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. **Serve:**
* Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
* Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
* Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the apple filling to prevent browning.
* Use different types of apples for a more complex flavor.
* Substitute other fruits, such as peaches or berries, for the apples.
* Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
More Tips for Shopping Aldi German Week
* **Go early!** Aldi Finds are popular and sell out quickly, especially the more unique and sought-after items. Arriving early in the week, or even on the first day of German Week, will increase your chances of finding everything on your list.
* **Check the Aldi ad.** Aldi releases a weekly ad that highlights the upcoming Aldi Finds. This will give you a preview of what to expect during German Week and help you plan your shopping trip.
* **Don’t be afraid to try new things.** Aldi German Week is a great opportunity to step outside your culinary comfort zone and try new and exciting flavors.
* **Read the labels.** Pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional information on the products, especially if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.
* **Stock up on your favorites.** If you find something you love during Aldi German Week, stock up! These items are only available for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance.
* **Share your finds!** Connect with other Aldi shoppers online and share your favorite German Week finds and recipes. You might discover some new and exciting ideas.
Conclusion
Aldi German Week is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. With a little creativity and these delicious recipes, you can transform your Aldi Finds into unforgettable meals. So, grab your shopping list, head to Aldi, and get ready to celebrate the flavors of Germany! Guten Appetit! (Enjoy your meal!)