Choucroute with Smothered Cabbage And Spatzle

In a large saucepan, over medium heat, combine the water, beer, mirepoix, garlic, and bay leaves. Season with salt. Add the ham hocks. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to medium low and simmer for 2 hours. Add the sausages. Continue to cook for 20 minutes. In a large saute pan, over medium heat, render the bacon until crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside. Add the onions. Season with black pepper. Saute for 4 minutes. Add the cabbage. Continue to saute until wilted, about 6 minutes. Stir in the cream. Bring the liquid to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium low. Add the pasta. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 4 to 6 minutes. Remove from the heat. Remove the ham hocks and sausage. To serve, remove the meat from the ham hocks. Place the ham and sausages on a platter. Spoon the cabbage mixture into a serving bowl and serve with the sausages. Garnish with parsley. Yield: 4 servings Recipe by: EMERIL LIVE SHOW #EMIC12