How to make cabbage pickles and what are their benefits?

Sauerkraut is an excellent delicacy for anyone seeking a healthy lifestyle and diet, as it allows you to discover the health effects of fermented foods and incorporate them into your daily eating habits. Thought to have originated in China more than 2,000 years ago, sauerkraut has become a popular side dish in many cultures over time. Due to the fermentation process it undergoes, it offers far more nutritional and health benefits compared to fresh cabbage.

HOW TO MAKE SAUERKRAUT?

Since fermentation occurs naturally on its own, making pickles is not as difficult as feared. All you need to do is provide the right environment. The preparation of sauerkraut is as follows:

1- In a deep bowl, mix water, vinegar, and salt until the salt dissolves

2- Chop the cabbage coarsely, add it to the mixture, and rub until the cabbage softens

3- Distribute the garlic and chickpeas into sterilized jars

4- Place the rubbed cabbage into the jars by pressing down

5- Distribute the remaining water in the bowl into the jars in the same way

6- If there is space left on top, fill to the brim with clean water

7- Close the lids and place them in a tray (in case the liquid overflows)

8- Let it sit in a cool place away from direct sunlight for 1 week, then open one to taste; if it is ready, move it to the refrigerator, if not, wait a few more days and move it to the refrigerator once it is ready.

INGREDIENTS FOR SAUERKRAUT

• 1 kg white cabbage

• 3 carrots

• 1 cup vinegar

• 1 cup water

• 3 tablespoons pickling salt

• 2 handfuls of chickpeas

• 4-8 cloves of garlic

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SAUERKRAUT?

1- Gut-friendly probiotics:

One of the most important benefits of sauerkraut is that it is a storehouse of probiotics. Thanks to the fermentation process, cabbage becomes rich in probiotics, which are friendly bacteria for our gut. These beneficial bacteria regulate our digestive system, strengthen our immune system, and protect our overall health.

2- A storehouse of vitamins and minerals:

A rich source of important vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and potassium, sauerkraut is very effective in strengthening immunity during the winter months. Vitamin C strengthens our immune system, Vitamin K is important for blood clotting and bone health, and potassium protects heart health and regulates blood pressure.

3- Helps with weight control:

Sauerkraut has a low-calorie and fat-free structure. At the same time, thanks to its fiber content, it provides a feeling of fullness and prevents hunger pangs. It is a suitable option for a diet.

4- Helps protect cells with its antioxidant power:

The antioxidants found in sauerkraut fight free radicals in our body, protecting our cells and slowing down the effects of aging. It also acts as a protective shield against chronic diseases such as cancer.

5- A brain-friendly food:

Consuming sauerkraut is quite beneficial for protecting cognitive functions, especially during old age. It is believed that some of the components it contains support brain health and strengthen memory.

6- Provides a natural detox:

Sauerkraut helps eliminate toxins accumulated in the body and supports overall health. Thanks to the fermentation process, it creates a natural detox effect.