Sauerbraten as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Sauerbraten is absolutely in that category. The smoky and satisfying quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. dark rye bread does work that no substitute can replicate.

German bread culture is extraordinarily diverse with over 300 officially registered varieties. There's something about the a winter Christmas market context that reinforces the comfort effect. Riesling alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.