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Stop Buying Sauerkraut! It's So Easy to Make at Home

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3 recipes
veganvegetarianplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Sauerkraut has its roots in Germany, where it has been a staple since the 16th century, originally used as a way to preserve cabbage through fermentation. This tangy dish is not only a beloved side for sausages and meats but also a symbol of German culinary tradition. Today, sauerkraut is enjoyed worldwide, often featured in various cuisines, from Polish bigos to American hot dogs, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.

Ingredients

  • cabbage
  • salt
  • caraway seeds
  • juniper berries
  • garlic
  • onion
  • bay leaves
  • peppercorns

Instructions

  1. 1Shred the cabbage finely using a knife or mandoline.
  2. 2Combine shredded cabbage with salt in a large bowl.
  3. 3Massage the cabbage and salt together until the cabbage releases its juices.
  4. 4Add caraway seeds, juniper berries, garlic, onion, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the mixture.
  5. 5Pack the cabbage mixture tightly into a fermentation vessel, pressing down to submerge it in its juices.
  6. 6Cover the vessel with a cloth or lid, allowing air to escape while keeping contaminants out.
  7. 7Leave the vessel at room temperature for 1-4 weeks, checking daily for bubbles and flavor.
  8. 8Taste the sauerkraut after a week and continue fermenting until desired tanginess is achieved.
  9. 9Once fermented, transfer the sauerkraut to jars and refrigerate to slow fermentation.
  10. 10Use within a few months for best flavor.

Ingredient Alternatives

cabbage

Healthier: savoy cabbage

Cheaper: green cabbage

Savoy cabbage is more tender and flavorful, while green cabbage is often less expensive.

salt

Healthier: sea salt

Cheaper: table salt

Sea salt can enhance flavor with less sodium.

caraway seeds

Healthier: fennel seeds

Cheaper: anise seeds

Fennel seeds provide a similar flavor profile.

juniper berries

Healthier: thyme

Cheaper: dried rosemary

Thyme adds an earthy flavor without the need for berries.

Techniques

fermentation

Equipment

large bowlfermentation vesselknifemandolinejars
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Fermented CabbageSauer Kraut
vegetariangluten-free

Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, primarily napa cabbage and Korean radish. It is a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with meals and known for its bold flavors and health benefits. The fermentation process not only enhances the taste but also preserves the vegetables, making kimchi a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its origins date back centuries, with various regional variations reflecting local ingredients and preferences.

Ingredients

  • napa cabbage
  • Korean radish
  • salt
  • garlic
  • ginger
  • Korean red pepper flakes
  • fish sauce
  • scallions

Instructions

  1. 1Cut the napa cabbage into quarters and remove the core.
  2. 2Sprinkle salt between the leaves and let it sit for a few hours to wilt.
  3. 3Rinse the cabbage thoroughly to remove excess salt.
  4. 4In a bowl, mix garlic, ginger, Korean red pepper flakes, and fish sauce to create the paste.
  5. 5Add the chopped scallions and Korean radish to the paste and mix well.
  6. 6Combine the paste with the cabbage and ensure it's evenly coated.
  7. 7Pack the mixture tightly into a jar, leaving some space at the top.
  8. 8Seal the jar and let it ferment at room temperature for a few days before refrigerating.

Ingredient Alternatives

napa cabbage

Healthier: savoy cabbage

Cheaper: green cabbage

Savoy cabbage is more nutritious, while green cabbage is often less expensive.

fish sauce

Cheaper: soy sauce

Soy sauce is a budget-friendly alternative for a vegetarian option.

Equipment

cutting boardknifemixing bowljar
🌶️🌶️🌶️Hotfish

Also Known As

KimcheeKim Chee
veganvegetarianplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 4 cups cucumbers (small, pickling variety)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup sea salt
  • 4 cloves garlic (peeled)
  • 2 tablespoons dill seeds
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions

  1. 1Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and trim the ends.
  2. 2In a large bowl, dissolve the sea salt in the water to create a brine.
  3. 3In a clean glass jar, layer the cucumbers, garlic, dill seeds, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and bay leaf.
  4. 4Pour the brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  5. 5Seal the jar with a lid, but do not tighten it completely to allow gases to escape during fermentation.
  6. 6Leave the jar at room temperature for 5-7 days, checking daily to ensure the cucumbers remain submerged in the brine.
  7. 7After 5-7 days, taste the pickles. If they are fermented to your liking, transfer them to the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process.

Equipment

large bowlclean glass jarmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsladle

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