Summer pickled cabbage

Delicious Summer Sauerkraut Recipe

Sauerkraut is a traditional dish, full of flavor and health benefits, that brings a unique taste to our meals. In addition to being a perfect accompaniment to various dishes, sauerkraut is also an excellent source of probiotics, aiding digestion and strengthening the immune system. I invite you to discover with me how to prepare a simple and tasty summer sauerkraut, perfect for any meal!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 4-5 days (depending on the ambient temperature)
Number of servings: 1 jar of 2 liters

Ingredients:
- 1 white cabbage (approximately 1.5-2 kg)
- 1 medium beetroot
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1-2 tablespoons of dill seeds)
- Celery leaves (optional, but recommended)
- Sea salt (1 tablespoon for each liter of water)
- Warm water

Brief history:
Sauerkraut has a rich history, being consumed since ancient times in various cultures. People quickly discovered that by fermenting vegetables, they retain their nutrients and become easier to digest. Moreover, this process gives vegetables a special flavor, transforming them into delicious accompaniments for meat dishes or as an ingredient in salads.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
- Wash the cabbage under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, cut it into thin strips, similar to slices of about 1-2 cm. This will be the main element of the pickles.
- Peel the beetroot and grate it finely or cut it into small cubes, depending on your preference. The beetroot will not only add a sweet and earthy flavor but will also color the cabbage in a pleasant shade of pink.
- The carrot can be sliced into rounds or grated, depending on the desired texture. It will add a crunchy note and natural sweetness to the pickles.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, grated beetroot, and carrot. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. Preparing the jar:
- Choose a clean, lidded glass jar of 2 liters. It is important that it is sterilized to avoid contamination of the pickles.
- Place a handful of fresh dill and a few celery leaves at the bottom of the jar. These will add flavor and a touch of freshness to the dish.

4. Filling the jar:
- Add the mixture of cabbage, beetroot, and carrot into the jar, pressing gently to remove air and leave room for the liquid.
- On top, add more dill and celery leaves, finishing with a slice of beetroot as a cap. This will help keep the vegetables submerged in water, preventing oxidation.

5. Preparing the brine:
- In a separate container, mix warm water with salt (1 tablespoon of salt for each liter of water). It is essential that the salt is completely dissolved to ensure a proper fermentation process.
- Pour the brine over the vegetables in the jar, making sure they are completely covered.

6. Fermentation:
- Cover the jar with plastic wrap or a lid, but do not seal it tightly. Fermentation needs oxygen.
- Place the jar in sunlight for 2 days, then move it to a warm, dark place for another 2-3 days. Check daily, and if you notice foam or impurities on the surface, remove them with a spoon.

7. Preservation:
- Once you have achieved the desired taste, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. Sauerkraut will keep well for several weeks and will continue to develop flavors.

Useful tips:
- Cabbage selection: Choose fresh, firm cabbage without spots. Smaller cabbage is usually crunchier and tastier.
- Optional ingredients: You can add spices such as peppercorns, bay leaves, or garlic to customize the recipe.
- Serving: Sauerkraut can be served as a side dish with meat dishes, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in salads. A delicious combination is with baked potatoes and grilled sausages.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why is it important to use warm water?: Warm water helps the salt dissolve better, facilitating fermentation.
- How long does fermentation take?: The fermentation time can vary depending on the ambient temperature. Generally, the warmer it is, the faster fermentation will proceed.
- Can I use other vegetables?: Absolutely! Sauerkraut can be combined with carrots, peppers, or even radishes for a variety of flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
Sauerkraut is rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and probiotics, which contribute to maintaining a healthy gut flora. Consuming sauerkraut can support digestion and strengthen the immune system.

In conclusion, preparing summer sauerkraut is a simple and enjoyable process that will fill your home with delicious aromas and provide you with a healthy dish for your meals. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its flavors and textures! Enjoy your meal!