Description
This German Sauerkraut is the perfect side dish for any hearty meal! It is a delicious side dish to sausages, pork, and more. It’s simple to make and full of tradition!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium green cabbage (about 2 lbs), shredded
- 1 heaping tbsp sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Filtered water, if needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and set them aside. Shred the cabbage finely using a knife, mandolin, or food processor.
- Mix with Salt: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5-10 minutes until it releases its juices and becomes limp.
- Pack the Jar: Pack the cabbage tightly into a sterilized mason jar, pressing it down firmly to remove any air pockets. Pour the liquid from the bowl over the cabbage. If needed, add filtered water to ensure the cabbage is fully submerged.
- Add Caraway Seeds: If using, sprinkle caraway seeds between the layers of cabbage.
- Ferment: Place one of the reserved outer leaves on top of the shredded cabbage to keep it submerged. Use a fermentation weight or a clean glass jar filled with water to weigh it down. Cover the jar with a cloth and secure it with a rubber band or string.
- Store: Store the jar at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, for 1-3 weeks. Check daily to ensure the cabbage remains submerged and skim off any scum that forms on the surface.
- Taste and Transfer: Start tasting the sauerkraut after one week. When it reaches your desired tanginess, transfer it to airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator.
Notes
Flavor Variations: Add other spices such as juniper berries, mustard seeds, or bay leaves for different flavor profiles. You can also mix in shredded carrots or apples for added sweetness.
Salt Substitution: If you prefer a lower-sodium version, use half the amount of salt and add a starter culture designed for fermenting vegetables to aid the fermentation process.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Calories: 20
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 1g