Homemade Probiotic Packed Raw Sauerkraut

Homemade sauerkraut is a powerhouse of probiotics, offering more beneficial bacteria than a bottle of capsules and retaining all the nutritional benefits of cabbage.

By fermenting your own sauerkraut, you're not only saving money on probiotics but also maximizing the health benefits of this fermented food. Unlike pasteurized sauerkraut, raw sauerkraut retains its beneficial probiotics, making it a valuable addition to your diet.

Cultured foods like raw sauerkraut can help support your immune system and gut health, providing a natural source of probiotics that your body needs to stay healthy.

Try making your own raw sauerkraut and experience the benefits of this traditional fermented food!

Ingredients:

- Fresh cabbage

- Sea salt (2 teaspoons per pound of cabbage)

Optional: Carrots, crushed red pepper

Instructions:

1. Chop or shred the cabbage into a consistent size and sprinkle with sea salt.

2. Massage the salt into the cabbage for about 10 minutes until liquid accumulates.

3. Pack the cabbage and juice into a clean, non-metal crock or jar, ensuring the cabbage is submerged under the liquid.

4. Store in a dark place at room temperature, checking daily to ensure the cabbage remains submerged.

5. Fermentation time may vary, typically about seven days. Once ready, remove the cabbage leaf from the top and store in the refrigerator.

What to Watch For:

- Ensure the cabbage is submerged in the liquid and press down daily to prevent floating.

- Watch for mold development and ensure the sauerkraut smells right.

- Use an opaque crock or jar with straight sides and a lid or plate to press down on the cabbage.

Tips for Success with Raw Sauerkraut:

- Work the salted cabbage until it becomes juicy.

- Keep the cabbage submerged in its liquid to prevent oxygen exposure.

- Allow fermentation in a dark place for about a week.

Suggested Equipment:

Celtic salt: https://amzn.to/3AByRi1 (You’ll want to use a salt like this one — that is beneficial)

Redmond's salt: https://amzn.to/4dOLww4

Tamper: https://amzn.to/3SXUore

Wide mouth jars: https://amzn.to/3yT2Y3V

Weights: https://amzn.to/4cBB2PK

Wide mouth pickle pipes: https://amzn.to/4ecLEWL

Wide mouth funnel: https://amzn.to/4dxnWnP