Simple Healthy Garnish | Pickled Red Cabbage | Starts With Kitchen

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making pickled red cabbage, a vibrant and tangy garnishment that can enhance a variety of dishes. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also keeps well in the fridge for a month, making it a great addition to your meals. Let’s dive into the steps needed to create this delicious condiment.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To start pickling red cabbage, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 medium head of red cabbage
• 1 cup of white vinegar
• 1 cup of water
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• Spices (optional, such as peppercorns, garlic, or bay leaves)

Practical Tips

• Choose fresh, firm cabbage for the best results.
• White vinegar is affordable and works well for pickling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Follow these sub-steps to prepare your cabbage:

1. Remove any outer leaves from the cabbage.
2. Cut the cabbage in half, then slice it thinly into strips.
3. Rinse the sliced cabbage under cold water to clean it.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Ensure the cabbage is thinly sliced to allow for even pickling.
• Avoid skipping the rinsing step to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine

Prepare the pickling brine by following these steps:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, salt, and sugar (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the salt and sugar dissolve.

Practical Tips

• You can adjust the vinegar-to-water ratio based on your taste preference.
• Adding spices can enhance the flavor profile of your pickled cabbage.

Step 4: Combine Cabbage and Brine

Once the brine is ready, proceed with these steps:

1. Place the sliced cabbage in a clean glass jar or container.
2. Pour the hot brine over the cabbage, ensuring it is fully submerged.
3. Use a weight or a clean utensil to keep the cabbage submerged if necessary.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the brine to cool slightly before sealing the jar to prevent heat damage.
• Leave some space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion.

Step 5: Store and Wait

To complete the pickling process:

1. Seal the jar tightly with a lid.
2. Place the jar in the refrigerator.

Important Note

• For optimal flavor, allow the pickled cabbage to sit for at least one week before consuming. The flavors will develop and deepen over time.

Conclusion

You have now successfully prepared pickled red cabbage! This tangy condiment is perfect for adding flavor and color to sandwiches, tacos, salads, and more. Store it in the fridge for up to a month and enjoy it as a healthy addition to your meals. For further culinary inspiration, consider trying the additional recipes linked in the video description. Happy pickling!