Beet Red Cabbage Sauerkraut: Sweet, Tangy, and Soulful Fermentation

Next, let me tell you that my kitchen counter always holds a row of mason jars. Also, these glass jars bubble away with some of the most vibrant colors you can imagine. Today, I am sharing my absolute favorite recipe for beet red cabbage sauerkraut because it brings pure joy to my table. Then, you will realize that making your own probiotic ferments at home is completely simple.

Next, you might feel intimidated by the idea of fermenting food from scratch. Also, you do not need to worry because this process is incredibly straightforward and honest. Then, you can think of this recipe as a fun way to preserve fresh, soulful ingredients with zero shortcuts. Grab a glass of sweet tea, clear off your counter, and let us throw down in the kitchen together.

What You Need For This Homemade Kraut

Next, you must gather your supplies before starting this deep pink ferment. Also, you only need a few simple ingredients and basic tools to find success. Then, you can easily find everything at your local grocery store or garden patch.

Essential Ingredients

• 1 medium head of organic red cabbage
• 2 medium earthy red beets
• 2 tablespoons of non-iodized sea salt
• 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds (optional)

Recommended Kitchen Tools

• A large glass mixing bowl
• A sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer
• A sturdy vegetable box grater
• Two wide-mouth 32-ounce mason jars
• Fermentation weights or small glass stones

Step-by-Step Fermentation Process

Next, let us dive into the actual preparation steps for this beautiful recipe. Also, following the correct order helps you create the perfect environment for good bacteria to thrive. Then, you will watch your fresh vegetables turn into a tangy, crunchy masterpiece.

Step 1: Prep and Shred Your Vegetables

[Shred Cabbage] ──> [Grate Beets] ──> [Add Sea Salt] ──> [Massage Mixture]

Next, you need to remove the outer leaves of your red cabbage and save one large leaf for later. Also, slice the cabbage head into very thin strips using your knife or mandoline. Then, peel your raw red beets and grate them using the coarse side of your box grater. Next, toss both shredded vegetables into your large glass mixing bowl so they mix completely.

Step 2: Salt and Massage the Mix

Next, sprinkle your non-iodized sea salt evenly over the colorful vegetable mixture. Also, use your clean hands to rub and squeeze the salt into the cabbage and beets vigorously. Then, you will notice the vegetables softening up and releasing a deep purple liquid within minutes. Next, let the bowl sit peacefully on your counter for about fifteen minutes to draw out even more natural brine.

Step 3: Pack the Jars Tightly

Next, grab your clean wide-mouth mason jars and start packing the mixture inside. Also, use your fist or a wooden tamper to press the vegetables down firmly after each handful. Then, ensure the liquid rises completely above the top of the packed vegetables to keep air out. Next, tear your reserved cabbage leaf into pieces and place them on top to act as a barrier.

Step 4: Weight it Down and Seal

Next, place your fermentation weight right on top of the cabbage leaf piece to keep everything submerged. Also, screw your jar lid on loosely so the natural carbon dioxide gases can escape safely. Then, set your jars in a dark corner of your kitchen away from direct sunlight. Next, wipe the outside of the jars because this active mixture can bubble over during the early days.

Managing Your Kraut Fermentation Time

Next, you need to know about the beet sauerkraut fermentation time to get the best flavor. Also, the ideal temperature for your kitchen counter stays between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Then, you will notice that this specific blend bubbles much more than standard green cabbage. Next, this active bubbling happens because beets contain a high amount of natural sugars that feed the helpful bacteria.

Also, you should let this mixture ferment for 21 to 28 days for a fully sour taste. Then, tasting your kraut once a week helps you decide when it hits your favorite level of tanginess. Next, look for a pleasantly sour aroma and a bright, uniform magenta color throughout the jar. Also, move the jars to your refrigerator to stop the process once you love the flavor profile.

Soulful Serving Suggestions

Next, you will find that this tangy condiment pairs beautifully with so many classic meals. Also, it brings a wonderful crunch and bright acidity to rich, savory dishes.

• Pile it high onto warm pressed-italian-sandwiches for an incredible lunch flavor boost.
• Serve a generous spoonful alongside a smoky, savory lunch wrap like a hummus-avocado-wrap to add color.
• Top your morning breakfast plate next to a hot vegan-breakfast-hash for a refreshing contrast.
• Layer it inside a quick lunch using comforting avocado-toast options on crispy bread.
• Enjoy it as a bright side dish when you whip up a warm tasty-vegan-chickpea-omelette on Sunday morning.

FAQs

Wrap-Up and Your Next Action Step

Next, you see that making a healthy beet red cabbage sauerkraut is a fun and rewarding kitchen project. Also, this beautiful side dish adds a pop of bright color and a dose of healthy probiotics to your daily routine. Then, you can share jars of this colorful kraut with your neighbors to spread some homemade love.

Next, please pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so you can save these helpful steps for later. Also, leave a comment down below to tell me how your batch bubbles on your counter. Then, let me know if you decided to toss in some caraway seeds or keep it plain.

Print