Name: Quick Sauerkraut
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 2.5 lb / 1.1 kg); 1 cup water (240 ml); 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (120 ml); 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar (120 ml); 2 teaspoons salt (10 g); 2 teaspoons granulated sugar (8 g); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

If you’re looking for a way to add a punch of flavor to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen, this Quick Sauerkraut recipe is a must-try. Tangy, crunchy, and packed with a zesty kick, this recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of traditional sauerkraut in a fraction of the time. Made from fresh green cabbage combined with the boldness of apple cider and white distilled vinegar, this sauerkraut is both refreshing and intensely flavorful. It makes a fantastic side dish for a variety of meals or can even be enjoyed on its own as a low-calorie snack.

The beauty of this Quick Sauerkraut lies in its simplicity and convenience. Ready in less than an hour, it’s an efficient way to introduce the nutritious benefits of cabbage and vinegar into your diet. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow, requiring minimal ingredients and a simple cooking method. Perfect for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or just about any occasion, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with many main courses. Dive into this culinary delight and savor the rewarding results!

Why You’ll Love This Quick Sauerkraut

Quick and Easy: Prepared with just a handful of ingredients in under an hour.
Tangy Flavor: The mix of apple cider and white distilled vinegar ensures a bold, zesty taste.
Versatile: Pairs well with sausages, sandwiches, and more for a diverse range of meals.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To kick off this Quick Sauerkraut recipe, preparation is key. Start by gathering all the ingredients and ensuring your kitchen workspace is organized. A large pot or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the cabbage efficiently. Make sure your cabbage is thinly sliced; this not only helps it cook evenly but also ensures that the vinegars and spices are well absorbed. Have a good chopping board and a sharp knife ready for slicing the cabbage, or opt for a mandolin slicer for more uniform pieces. As you prepare the cooking area, lay out all ingredients, measuring spoons, and cups for easy access. This seamless setup will make the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 2.5 lb / 1.1 kg)
1 cup water (240 ml)
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (120 ml)
1/2 cup white distilled vinegar (120 ml)
2 teaspoons salt (10 g)
2 teaspoons granulated sugar (8 g)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Begin by placing your thinly sliced cabbage in a large pot or Dutch oven. This will be the base for your sauerkraut, so make sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Add the water, apple cider vinegar, white distilled vinegar, salt, sugar, garlic powder, mustard seeds, onion powder, and black pepper to the pot. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring the cabbage is well coated with the liquid and spices. This is crucial for achieving that perfect tangy flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Sauerkraut

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook uncovered for 35–40 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. The cabbage should become tender and absorb the rich, tangy flavors of the vinegar blend.

Variations

Protein: Incorporate cooked bacon bits or sliced sausages into the sauerkraut for extra flavor.
Vegetables: Experiment by adding grated carrots or thinly sliced sweet peppers for color and sweetness.
Spices: Add a pinch of caraway seeds or dill for a different aromatic profile.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the cabbage is consistently sliced thinly for even cooking.
Adjust the level of vinegar to suit your taste preference; more vinegar will make it tangier.
For a milder sauerkraut, reduce the cooking time slightly to retain some crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side with grilled meats, especially pork or sausages.
Mix with mashed potatoes for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Tips

Use the freshest cabbage for the best flavor and texture.
If you like a sweeter sauerkraut, increase the amount of sugar slightly.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 40 per serving
Protein: 1 gram per serving
Sodium: 340 mg per serving

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green for this recipe?

Yes, red cabbage can be used in place of green cabbage, adding a distinct color and slightly sweeter taste to the dish.

How long can I store the quick sauerkraut in the fridge?

This sauerkraut can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it a great make-ahead option.

Can this recipe be made with less sugar?

Absolutely, feel free to adjust the sugar quantity to meet your dietary needs without compromising the sauerkraut’s core flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for fermentation?

No, this Quick Sauerkraut is intended for immediate consumption and lacks the necessary conditions for traditional fermentation.

Conclusion

This Quick Sauerkraut recipe makes it possible to enjoy the signature tang and crunch of a classic side dish in just under an hour. Whether you’re pairing it with your favorite sausage dish or using it as a topping on a hearty sandwich, its bold flavors and simple preparation will leave you satisfied and eager for more. With the convenience of fast preparation and versatility in serving options, this recipe is perfect for both casual dinners and more elaborate meal plans. We encourage you to try this quick recipe, make it your own with different variations, or share your thoughts on how it turned out for you in the comments below.