Last updated on October 19th, 2018
Yesterday, because it’s both delicious and good for the digestion, I decided to make a batch of sauerkraut. Sauerkraut requires a head of cabbage, so I hopped into the car and drove to my local supermarket. There, as I eased into the parking lot, I noticed a silver Nissan pickup truck speeding directly towards my little blue Toyota. No time to spare, I laid on the horn while my life flashed before my eyes. And then…BAM. The head-on collision shook me up mentally if not physically. Of course the front of my car was badly damaged. I called the police, and after an unbelievably long wait — two hours! — the official report was filed. Still trembling, I marched into the supermarket and lovingly hugged the cool green vegetable that I was after. May your own sauerkraut adventure be less dramatic than mine! The recipe:
As you will see in the following video (filmed, by me, immediately after the aforementioned accident), sauerkraut requires just two ingredients: cabbage and salt. You can amend the basic recipe by adding other vegetables (carrots come to mind) and/or spices (caraway seed is wonderful).
How much salt? As a rule of thumb, I use 1 tablespoon of Diamond Crystal kosher salt per pound of shredded cabbage.
Have your own special tips and tricks for making sauerkraut? Please share them in the comments field below!
xKevin
Maraya says
Oh, Kevin! I’m so glad you’re apparently okay! I will now watch your recipe video with additional appreciation for you!!
Andrea says
Please take it easy today, Kevin; sometimes it’s the day after that one feels the aches of any type of accident. And thank you for being so dedicated that you still went in & got your veggie afterward & did the wonderful video!
cecile says
add currypowder 🙂
Glenda says
So glad you were not harmed, Kevin. Might want to go and get yourself checked out though, if you haven’t done so already. Take care of yourself!
Sheri says
Praying you suffer no long-term ill effects from the accident.
Lyn says
So glad you are OK – it’s a jungle out there!! I do not shop on Saturdays/Sundays unless I have to. I made up my mind a while ago that after I stopped working I would stay home on those days and let those people still working have the store to themselves and stay out of their way! It’s too crazy. The other thing is – I drive a large SUV for my safety. Love sauerkraut – especially on a reuben. In fact, we’re going out today to eat.
Mary says
OH SCAREY!! TAKE EXTRA CARE TODAY!
Cynthia says
Yo are ok. Hadn’t thought about making my own sauerkraut. Thanks. Also, I prefer the full room camera view so I can see the big picture, and your lovely new kitchen. Thank you.
John says
Harrowing! Glad you weren’t seriously hurt.
My mom used to make huge batches of sauerkraut and can it in Mason jars. It was always so much better than anything store bought. She put caraway in hers. I think she used a grater to slice it.
Janis says
Oh dear Kevin! So sorry to hear about the accident. Those are so upsetting. They really rattle us. You may be sore so be kind to yourself and don’t overdo it. Sending good thoughts.
Lois says
Glad you’re OK and love that you soldiered on to purchase the cabbage and make the sauerkraut!
Patricia says
Oh Kevin,
I am so glad to hear you are all right. I am appalled at the potential seriousness of such an accident. Do be careful and take some time to rest. So upsetting.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Hi Cynthia – I can only make full-room videos when a hired hand is behind the camera. I filmed this video all by my lonesome.
Isabelle Maddock Weinstein says
Thanks to your detailed demonstration, I think I will try this! You seem very calm & centered despite the unpleasant morning. Hope all is well!
SANDY says
Oh Kevin Honey…
What a jerk!
I’m glad your not hurt real bad.
Hot bubble bath and champagne is what you need for your recovery.
Thanks to your guardian angel for keeping you alive!
Love. Sandy
Jean says
Supermarket parking lots are places where accidents are waiting to happen. Glad you’re ok.
I too use an easy and delicious recipe for sauerkraut, using red cabbage, caraway seed and juniper berries from fermentationrecipes.com. Supposed to be even healthier than green cabbage. .??? Jean in Bristol RI
Valerie Hildebrand says
Fabulous recipe my friend…thanks for sharing! YIKES..today is a new day full of possibilities..relax – cheers, Valerie 🙂
Nancy says
So glad to see you’re ok. It’s only a car! Your life is much more important. The cabbage idea is great. I remember my grandmother making sauerkraut in crockery jars in season. Thanks for the memories as well as good food and home ideas.
Joy Windle says
Thanks for the great demonstration!
Be gentle with yourself for the next couple days. There may be a delay in the aftereffects of your parking lot mishap.
Ellin Pollachek says
Parking lots are true collision courses. I’ve suggested traffic lights on a number of occasions. Glad you’re OK but relax. Being “shaken up” is a form of trauma.
Cherry says
Scary. Please go to doctor and have it documented. I’ve had whip lash pain off and on since getting hit and it is considered an ‘open’ insurance case. Then you can go to physical therapy when needed and it is still covered.
Recipe sounds easy enough-I will have to try.
Lucretia (Lucie) S. Pollard says
I second the idea of getting a good check up. As a college friend told me “We are soft things in a hard world.”
Marie Morgan-Roth says
Hi Kevin,
For the Kosher salt which brand do you use Kevin? I have found that there is a difference between Morton’s and Diamond Crystal. You feed back will be greatly appreciated!
Jesse says
Reply to Lyn #6. I too am retired and know it is an excellent plan to stay home in peaceful bliss on the weekends. I live in Houston and from noon Friday to Monday morning when drivers, often drunk and/or crazed, clog the roads, I stay home and garden, read, listen to music, cook and catch up on correspondence, like today, Sunday. These days are when most accident happen, especially Friday according to insurance company statistics. We have road rage and last week a man was arrested for randomly shooting from his car into cars driven by women because he hates women.
Kevin, your car crash could have been very bad. I hope you are OK and take it easy for the next several days. I am so glad you apparently weren’t injured. But you do need to rest and meditate. Any accident is a shock to you.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Hi Marie – I used Diamond Crystal kosher salt in this recipe.
Rebecca Rosenblum says
Given the chemical reactions between the salt and cabbage, how important is using glass bowls? (Hope you do get checked out and feel ok)…
Bruni says
My mother always used sprigs of dill stems and summer savory in her sauerkraut.
Jeanie says
Just in case you are in search of a more affordable “videographer,” check with your locals high school and/or community college for kids from a “making film or video class.” These kids can do amazing things with their phones and/or a go-pro! And they need the experience/credentials.
Donna Martell says
It may be all of that stark terror, or relief to be alive –
you look glowing in this video!!
David A says
I do my shopping first thing in the morning like 6 or 7.
I have been making sauerkraut for quite some time and it’s good with ginger, caraway seeds, Dill seeds, onions. Pretty much just use your imagination.
Kathy says
Glad you’re ok! How terrifying 🙁
Ann says
So sorry to hear of your accident Kevin . I can recommend a session or two from a good CRANIAL SACRAL reflexologist .Quite a blissful and always gentle process .Love your website , recipes and home news , thank you for making each of us your best friend . Ann in London
Ms. Mary says
Thanks for taking the effort and energy to make this video. Glad you are OK, but please take it easy for a few days. Doctor’s orders!
<3
Susan says
Looks like fun indeed! Will be preparing this yummy, healthful treat quite often! Thanks for teaching, Kevin!
Ione Unruh says
Such a simple, basic way to make a healthy vegetable meal. Thanks for the instructions and your effort.
Samantha Gray says
Kevin, you seem to have weathered this storm very well. Hope you have no aftereffects from it, and glad you are apparently hale and hearty. Can’t believe you’re actually filming after a head-on! That’s stamina and determination!
Donna says
It looks wonderful and so easy. I’m anxious to try it. Glad you’re ok.
Miki M Holden says
Looks delicious and doable! However I could not find the printable recipe, even though it seems so straight forward. Thanks and so glad only your car was hurt!
Myra says
Hi Kevin and fans, I heard it is helpful to add a bit of cultured sour cream to get it started!?! Glad you’re ok and I hope they rule the accident in your favor.
Ardelle F Tuxen says
Sorry to hear of your accident – so distressing. Hope you have no future physical distress such as headaches etc.
I have an overabundance of hot peppers and plan to use my red cabbage, fresh garlic and hot peppers in my sauerkraut. Have never done that but am trying to utilize the hot peppers and had purchased some sauerkraut with jalapeno peppers last fall at our organic market. It was way too hot so will be very conservative with the peppers. Any suggestions out there as to ratio?
Karen at Country Gardens of Oley Valley says
sorry to hear about your car. my truck was totaled in July. got a replacement even better than the original.
Dawn says
Glad you seemed to survive the accident with no ill effects.
I really thought making sauerkraut was a long drawn out process, Thank you so. Much for clearing that up for us. Can’t wait to try it.
One question…..can you use red cabbage as well as green? I just happen to have red on hand.
Thank you so much again
Be well.
Carl says
Glad you’re okay. I consider parking lots to be one of the most dangerous driving situations, which is why I usually park out on the fringe and walk in.
Paula Emberley says
Thanks for the wonder recipe. I will certainly try it. Kevin, I too suggest you see a doctor and get checked out. It is usually a day after the accident that you feel the aches and pains. Take care, love your videos and recipes.
Paula
Michelle A. says
What a trooper! On with the show, huh, in spite of unexpected car crashes! I appreciate you showing us how to make kraut. I’ve been wanting to do it for a while, but the videos I’ve seen make way too much, use crocks, and make it seem too daunting a kitchen task. I’ll definitely be giving your version a try. Thanks!
Sunni Dupuis says
So sorry you and your car were “sauerkrauted” i.e. shredded, minced, mixed physically and emotionally. I hope you are alright! Sore arms from gripping the steering wheel so tightly? Follow closely any small physical changes and don’t be shy seeing your PCP. Better safe than sorry.
Carol says
Thanks for showing us how easy it is to make kraut. Be kind to the body.
Leslie D says
Please, Kevin, get thoroughly checked out. Things may not show up until later and the insurance company will need professional medical reports. Hope you come out of this experience ahead and recover soon. You are a trouper to go ahead with the recipe filming. Be gentle with yourself for your own sake, and for all of us who send hugs and best wishes.
patrice says
oh my goodness, what a horrible beginning to a great recipe. take care of yourself. Often the ‘day after’ is worse than when the accident first happens. Keep track of your symptoms and stay in touch with your health care professional. You never know….. Take care
Sue in Oregon says
Homemade fermented sauerkraut is the best! Car crashes are the worst!!! Glad to see you are ok but like the others, hope you will see a doctor. Let us know how you are.
K.L. Eckhardt says
Hi Kevin – after all you went through to get your cabb Sauerkraut age I want you to know this video about making Sauerkraut was worth every harrowing moment! I’ve never seen it explained soooo easily! I’ve tried fermenting a few things and never does it come out right. I’m going to follow your instructions *exactly* and I’ll bet it’ll work! It has to!! out of sheer appreciation.
Q: some people put vinegar in their Sauerkraut. Why, and do you?
I sometimes like it with carraway seeds.
Alyce says
Though you were still a bit rattled, this is one of your best videos. The show must go on, and you do it so well. Love the idea of a small batch of sauerkraut. Hope the car business is settled soon.
Charlotte says
Hi Kevin Sorry about the accident Glad your OK Take good care of yourself Look forward to your on going blog Cheers Charlotte
Sarah says
Hi, Kevin– I have never liked sauerkraut, but I think I will like yours. I cook cabbage often and with caraway. Cabbage is truly an international dish.
What in the world was wrong w that driver? Sorry, and thank you.
Carla Crouch says
Take good care my friend! This recipe is intriguing!
Carol Ann Gruetzmacher says
Kevin, I’ve made kimchi quite a lot and never made just sauerkraut. Thank you for showing us your method. So glad your accident wasn’t worse but I agree with the others to pay attention to how you feel in the coming days.
Mary Hoffert says
Car accidents can shake up one’s body more than is realized at the time. The recommendations to see a Dr are right on. You may also try a good massage and a session with a NUCCA chiropractor. This type of Dr uses very gentle pressure to align your body. It is truly amazing and definitely worth looking into if you’ve had a jolt to your body – like in your accident.
Really like your videos. I have learned so much from them.
Edna V. says
Hi Kevin – I suspect you were a little shocked when you filmed the video. For your own sake take it easy for a few days. No point in doing to much -just rest and recover from the shock or any physical shake up! All the best.
Mark W says
Glad you’re ok Kevin! I enjoyed the making sauerkraut video. Never realized it could be so easy! I enjoy reading and viewing your home, gardening and cooking experiences. Thank you for sharing!
Merry says
Kevin, you should make an appointment for a check-up to be sure you are truly ok. Speaking from personal experience, I know you may have whiplash or a back injury that shows up in a day or two. Take care.
anita says
Glad to hear no major ill effects. However, #21/Cherry, #48/Leslie D and #60/Merry give good advice. I hope you have no delayed problems, but do get checked out soon. Best wishes and take it easy for a while.
Pam says
Oh, Kevin – how horrifying.I hope – brave man – that you are feeling all right today. And thanks so much for the sauerkraut instructions. I have fiddled with kraut a bit, but have not been satisfied. This will help I am sure.
Pam
Lorraine Johns says
Praying you stay safe from ill affects. Always go to the hospital post accident. Then there is a record if things go south later. It can take some time for things to show up physically. So glad to hear you were able to still go shopping afterwards!!! You’re a real trooper!!!! Thanks for the recipe!!!
Sherry in Willow Grove says
Hey Kevin! So sorry about your collision. Seeing it coming is the worst because you tense up before the collision. Just like everyone else – I despise parking lots. I long for the old fashioned slanted on street parking! I like the suggestion from Carl #43 to park on the perimeter and walk in. Please do take everyone’s advice to heart and get yourself checked out. I haven’t yet watched the video but thank you so much for soldiering on. I love sauerkraut and can’t wait to try my own following your excellent advice. Hugs and healing thoughts coming your way. Take care.
Barbara Wheeler says
So sorry to hear about your accident, both you and your car. We all agree, go get checked out.
Thanks for the Jar recipe of sauerkraut which I love. Looked so good. I’ll get some Kosher Salt
and a head of cabbage and try it. Good luck and take it easy.
Pam R says
Glad you are ok!! The recipe sounds good!
Vickie says
Glad you are ok, Kevin.
Amen Kahwajy says
We’re you channeling an inner Emeril Lagasse with the “BAM!”? Hope you stay well and heed the cautions here for a well check. Meanwhile, I have been using mostly sea salts and the Himalayan pink instead of that processed salt.
Lilija says
So glad you didn’t suffer any life-threatening injuries in the prang! Please take care! I remember how my family made sauerkraut at home in the early fifties. We grew lots of cabbages on the allotment and come autumn, we cleared the front room, covered the table and set to work: dad shredded the cabbages with a large knife (more like a machete really, but we didn’t have a mandolin, which would have made life easier), mum rubbed salt into the shredded cabbage, grandma added grated carrot and caraway, and grandad stowed it all into a barrel. The sauerkraut was weighted down, and the barrel rolled down into the cellar to ferment in the cool air down there. I couldn’t wait for it to be ready and loved the cabbage as a refreshing salad, before it got too sour. My family are from Latvia, and this is the way they used to prepare it for winter.
Lee Hernandez says
You could use a giant Tupperware bowl with a lid. I have one that holds about 2 1/2 gallons. Just measure your ingredients in, pop the lid and shake, shake, shake!
Nancy says
Thanks Kevin! And thanks to Lilija too. Her description of her family making sauerkraut was delightful.
Jillian says
Great video I would shred the cabbage on a mandolin much quicker, but great to know how much salt you use. Glad you are ok after the accident.
Kip says
What was the reason for the inexcusable accident Kevin? So many people are distracted while driving, cell phones, texting, drinking etc. It infuriates me to hear about all these preventable accidents and whatever the reason, it’s not good enough. People have to be responsible but that seems to be foreign thinking more and more. I got tears in my eyes reading and thinking of what went through your mind before, during and after. I am so sorry this happened to you but thank the dear Lord, you are alright and hope all your readers stay safe.
We all get such a bang out of you and enjoy the time you give to us weekly.
Marie says
Thank you Kevin 🙂
Judy McCarrel says
Thank you so much for this recipe for sauerkraut. My mom always made kraut in a crock. I have never tried to make it but certainly will after seeing your video. I love your emails and recipes and your sharing of your garden and home.
Carolyn Young says
Loved this recipe! Shared it with a few friends as I can only eat so much of it!
They loved it & so did I! It was really mild & not as astringent as whatI buy in the
stores. Everybody loved it! Thanks for the recipe!
wendie says
Kevin- I hope you have recovered from the accident! Watching your videos and reading through your website always brightens my day. You are so cheerful and delightful! Your videos and site remind me that the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal is some of the best life has to offer.
(and then of course there is gardening and decorating…!)
Take good care
Wendie
Belinda says
Kevin,
I just got around to making sauerkraut this week, and made it with cabbage we grew. I wanted to thank you for reminding me to get around to it and to tell you that our garden is an enlarged version of your kitchen garden. We copied just about everything you suggested, grow it all without pesticides, and are in our 4th year of enjoying the bounty. I am particularly proud of the fact that I haven’t walked into a grocery store in weeks. Tonight, I blended up the last of the tomatoes into a sauce that is simmering on the stove. Cheers to you.
Sue in Oregon says
Wow! So glad you are here to tell us about the crash and the kraut. I make this all the time and can personally verify that it is delicious. Love it in toasted sandwiches. To preserve the health benefits of the probiotic part, I add the kraut after the sandwich is toasted. A bit of a nuisance, but worth ‘not’ heating it. I make it with the cabbage I grow in our garden. Oh, and it keeps for ages in the fridge.