(Hessen) Sauerkraut and Brats

Cook the bacon and onions together until the bacon is crisp and the onions are translucent.

Transfer the mixture to a Dutch oven and stir in the applesauce, sauerkraut, pepper, and bay leaf.

Simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour so the kraut softens and turns mellow.

Brown the bratwurst thoroughly in a skillet, then cut the links in half.

Nestle the brats into the sauerkraut and simmer another 15 to 20 minutes before serving.