Pickled cabbage in 3 hours

Pickled Cabbage in 3 Hours - A Quick Delicacy for Winter

Who can resist the fresh and crunchy taste of pickled cabbage? This simple and quick recipe will transform your kitchen into a place full of aromas and joy, providing you with a delicious salad, perfect for any meal. Pickled cabbage is not only a perfect accompaniment to meats or potato dishes but also an excellent source of vitamins during the cold season.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Pickling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Necessary Ingredients

- 2 kg of fresh cabbage, finely chopped
- 3 carrots, grated with a large grater
- One medium head of garlic (or less, to taste)
- For the marinade:
- 0.5 cup (200 ml) of boiled and cooled water
- 0.5 cup of flavorless oil
- 0.5 cup of white table vinegar (not red or pink)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Dried dill, to taste

Preparing the Pickled Cabbage

1. Preparing the Cabbage: Start by thoroughly cleaning the cabbage. Finely chop it using a sharp knife or a food processor. Ensure that the cabbage is fresh and crunchy, as this will influence the final texture of the pickles.

2. Kneading the Cabbage: Place the chopped cabbage in a large bowl. Add the salt and knead with your hands for a few minutes. This step is essential as it helps release the juices from the cabbage, which will encourage the pickling process.

3. Adding Carrot and Garlic: Grate the carrots and add them to the bowl with the cabbage. Then, peel the garlic head and crush it. Add the crushed garlic to the cabbage and carrot mixture. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Preparing the Marinade: In another pot, combine the water, vinegar, oil, sugar, and salt. Place the mixture over low heat and bring it to a boil, stirring constantly. Once the marinade starts to boil, pour it hot over the cabbage mixture. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the marinade.

5. Pickling: Transfer the cabbage mixture to a glass or ceramic container, cover it with a lid, and place a weight (such as a jar filled with water) on top to keep the cabbage submerged in the marinade. Let the container sit at room temperature for 2 hours.

6. Cooling: After two hours, move the container to the refrigerator. The pickled cabbage will be ready to eat after 24 hours, but the longer you leave it, the more intense the flavors will become.

Practical Tip

If you want to add extra flavor, you can include some black peppercorns or even a few bay leaves in the marinade. Also, adding fresh dill at the time of serving can bring a unique taste and aroma.

Nutritional Benefits

Pickled cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, B vitamins, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for good health, especially in the cold season when the immune system needs extra support.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can I keep pickled cabbage in the refrigerator?
Pickled cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks without losing its flavor.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Of course! You can experiment with carrots, celery, or even bell peppers. Each vegetable will bring a unique note to the recipe.

3. How can I serve pickled cabbage?
Pickled cabbage is delicious as a side dish for meats, but it can also be a main ingredient in salads. Add it to sandwiches or use it as a filling for tacos.

Possible Variations

- Spicy Pickled Cabbage: If you're a fan of spices, try adding some finely chopped hot peppers to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Pickled Cabbage with Root Leaves: Adding some beet or carrot leaves to the mixture can provide vibrant color and interesting flavor.

Personal Note

I tried this recipe on chilly winter days when the craving for fresh pickles was stronger than ever. The tangy taste and crunchy texture of the pickled cabbage reminded me of family meals, where pickles were always present. This recipe will not only enrich your meals but will also become a topic of conversation, bringing back cherished memories and unforgettable stories.

So, don’t hesitate! Prepare this delicious pickled cabbage today and fill your fridge with a delicacy that will add flavor to any meal. Enjoy!