Picture this: the tangy scent of fermented cabbage wafting through your kitchen, turning ordinary moments into something special. Easy fermented cabbage in a jar is more than just a trend; it’s a loving nod to the past that’s making waves on TikTok and Pinterest. Folks adore it for its zest and health benefits, and honestly, who doesn’t want that crunch in their meals?
This simple recipe combines vibrant red cabbage, sea salt, and a sprinkle of patience. It’s cozy and homemade, like your grandma’s version, but way faster. Expect a lively side dish that elevates sandwiches or tacos without all the fuss. Full details in the blog!
Enjoy this Easy Fermented Cabbage In A Jar for a healthy probiotic boost. This Homemade Sauerkraut Jar 5 Days recipe supports gut health and brings out bold flavors without vinegar. A simple way to make Fermented Cabbage Gut Health Probiotic at home.
Ingredients
Scale
1 head of green cabbage 3-4 lb
1 1/2 tbsp Kosher salt or 1 tablespoon fine sea salt
More salt + filtered water
To extra liquid if needed for every 1 cup filtered water add 1 teaspoon of sea salt stir to dissolve
Instructions
Clean all jars knives and cutting boards thoroughly and dry them to prepare for fermentation.
Remove outer leaves from cabbage cut it into quarters and slice thinly.
Place sliced cabbage in a large bowl sprinkle salt evenly over it and massage with your hands to release liquid.
Transfer cabbage and any released liquid into jars pressing firmly so it is packed tightly.
Use clean stones or weights to keep cabbage submerged in liquid inside the jar.
Cover jars loosely or secure with a cloth and rubber band to allow gases to escape.
Let cabbage ferment at room temperature between 60-75 F out of direct sunlight for 3 to 14 days pressing down occasionally.
If after 24 hours liquid does not cover cabbage make additional brine by dissolving 1 teaspoon salt in 1 cup filtered water and add to jars.
Begin tasting from day 3 and once flavor is to your liking remove weight and seal jars.
Store fermented cabbage in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Category:Sides
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American, bulgarian, European, German
Nutrition
Calories:28kcal
Sugar:4g
Sodium:1329mg
Fat:1g
Saturated Fat:1g
Unsaturated Fat:1g + 1g
Carbohydrates:7g
Fiber:3g
Protein:1g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re going to adore making easy fermented cabbage in a jar because it’s not only simple but also a delightful way to reconnect with the flavors of your kitchen’s past. If you’ve ever tasted tangy sauerkraut, you know the satisfying crunch and depth of flavor it brings and here’s the best part: it’s made with just a few simple pantry staples! It’s like a cozy hug in a jar that brightens up your meals.
Probiotic Power: This dish is packed with gut-friendly probiotics, which are fantastic for digestion!
Budget-Friendly: Skip the pricey store-bought jars. With just a head of cabbage and salt, you’re all set!
Nostalgic Charm: Every bite takes you back to family dinners and warm, hearty meals.
Versatile Uses: From sandwiches to salads, this sauerkraut enhances countless dishes beautifully.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create that vibrant jar of goodness.
Cabbage: A fresh head of green cabbage (about 3-4 pounds) is the star of the show. It forms the base of your ferment.
Kosher Salt: Use 1 ½ tablespoons to massage into the cabbage, helping draw out moisture – no other flavors needed!
Filtered Water: Occasionally needed to top off the brine and keep the cabbage fully submerged. Consistent moisture is key!
Mason Jar: A clean, dry jar will be your fermentation vessel.
Weights: Clean stones or any food-safe weight help keep the cabbage submerged, essential for proper fermentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to transform cabbage into a delicious probiotic powerhouse? Follow these simple steps.
Prep the Cabbage: Clean your cutting board and knife. Remove the outer cabbage leaves, cut the head in half, then quarters, and slice thinly.
Massage with Salt: Place the sliced cabbage in a large bowl, sprinkle with salt, and massage with your hands until the cabbage softens and releases liquid.
Pack it Tight: Transfer the salted cabbage into your jar, packing it tightly. Pour any released liquid into the jar. Place clean stones on top to weigh down the cabbage, if available.
Cover it Up: Cover the jar with a lid but don’t tighten it completely. Alternatively, use a cloth secured with a rubber band to allow airflow while keeping bugs out.
Wait Patiently: Let it sit at room temperature (ideally between 60-75°F), pressing down occasionally. Begin tasting after day 3 until it reaches your preferred tanginess, then seal tightly and refrigerate.
Pro Tips & Variations
Here are some tips to enhance your fermentation experience.
Timing: Fermentation time varies from 3 to 14 days depending on your taste. The longer it ferments, the tangier it becomes!
Extra Liquid: If after a day the liquid doesn’t cover the cabbage, mix 1 teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of water and pour it in to keep the cabbage submerged.
Flavor Twists: Feel free to experiment with spices such as caraway seeds or garlic for added flavor.
How to Serve & Store
This versatile sauerkraut is easy to enjoy and keep fresh.
Serving Ideas
Storage Tips
Perfect on sandwiches, salads, or as a tangy side dish!
Store in the fridge for up to 2 months. Keep the jar sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
There you have it a cozy, nourishing way to enjoy gut-friendly foods. With every crunchy bite of your homemade easy fermented cabbage in a jar, you’ll savor a delightful connection to the past, one meal at a time.
Expert Says
EASY FERMENTED CABBAGE IN A JAR is not just a tasty addition to your meals but also a simple way to support your gut health. Fermentation promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, enhancing nutrient absorption and creating probiotics that may aid digestion. Enjoy this tangy treat while benefiting from its natural goodness!
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The Quest for Easy Fermented Cabbage In A Jar
After several attempts resulting in overly salty or mushy batches, I finally perfected my easy fermented cabbage in a jar. Each challenge was a lesson in patience and balance, filling my kitchen with that tangy aroma reminiscent of my grandmother’s cooking. Now, I’ve found the perfect balance of crunch and flavor!
FAQs ( Easy Fermented Cabbage In A Jar )
What is fermented cabbage?
Fermented cabbage is a preserved form of cabbage that undergoes a natural fermentation process. This method enhances its flavor and increases its probiotic content, making it beneficial for gut health. It’s often enjoyed as a tangy side dish or as part of various meals.
How long does it take to ferment cabbage?
Typically, fermenting cabbage takes about 5 to 14 days, depending on the temperature and your taste preference. In warmer conditions, fermentation happens faster. You can taste the cabbage after a few days to determine when it’s at the right tanginess for you.
Can I use red cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using red cabbage will give your dish a vibrant color and a slightly different flavor profile. The fermentation process remains the same, and red cabbage also offers great health benefits, making this version just as nutritious.
Do I need vinegar to ferment cabbage?
No, you do not need vinegar for fermentation. This recipe relies on the natural lactic acid bacteria present in the cabbage for the fermentation process. Adding vinegar is unnecessary and may inhibit the beneficial bacteria’s growth.
Is fermented cabbage suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this dish is suitable for a keto diet! Fermented cabbage is low in carbs and packed with probiotics, making it a great addition to your meals. It can complement a variety of keto-friendly dishes, enhancing flavors without adding unnecessary carbs.
Conclusion
You’ve just unlocked the magic of easy fermented cabbage in a jar! In just five days, you’ll enjoy a satisfying crunch bursting with flavor, bringing joy to your meals. The vibrant colors and tangy aroma make this a warm addition to your kitchen, proving that simple can be deliciously satisfying. You’ll love how it turns outlike a warm hug in every bite!
Feel free to experiment with flavorstry adding carrots for sweetness or caraway seeds for a subtle twist. And a tip from my kitchen: always keep that jar sealed tightly in the fridge to preserve its zesty goodness. You’ll be amazed at how versatile this recipe is; it brightens everything from tacos to salads!
I’d love to hear your sauerkraut stories! Did you grow up with a family recipe that brought everyone together? Share a photo or memory in the comments below. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your loved onesit’s a little jar of love meant to be shared. Happy fermenting!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
