No, sauerkraut isn't just for hot dogs and summer barbecues; This tasty fermented food is much more versatile than a seasonal sausage dressing and can add texture and flavor to many other dishes.
Plus, spicy cabbage is packed with probiotics – the "good" bacteria that may help you reap benefits for your gut health year-round.
The probiotics in sauerkraut can help improve the balance of bacteria in your gut, leading to a healthier intestinal lining while keeping harmful microorganisms at bay and aiding your digestion.
But be careful when buying it because not all sauerkraut products have probiotics. Unfortunately, some that come in jars undergo pasteurization, which can kill good bacteria.
For sauerkraut that provides lots of probiotics, ideally look for fresh, vinegar-free, naturally fermented versions that are often found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Also, check labels for words like "probiotic," "fermented," or "raw" to indicate the presence of probiotics.
Alternatively, to make sure you get all the gut healthy bonuses, you can make your own version; You just need simple ingredients: cabbage, filtered water, and sea salt.
How to use sauerkraut in recipes?
Serve it as a dip
Sauerkraut provides a rich umami flavor that will add more flavor to your boring sauce dish.
To create a lively sauce, add diced tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño to traditional sauerkraut. Go a step further and add a little to your guacamole too for that extra kick.
Use it as hummus
It can be a stellar centerpiece for creamy party dips, great for dipping veggies and chips.
Try combining well-drained sauerkraut with mayonnaise, sour cream, cottage cheese, lots of fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and dill), garlic, a splash of tamari sauce, a pinch of sea salt, and a little freshly ground black pepper.
Take it in smoothies
A scoop in your morning smoothie can create complex, nuanced flavors rather than just a simple, straightforward sweetness.
Twisting a tablespoon of sauerkraut into a fruity smoothie can provide a more balanced flavor. But don't overdo it, a small spoonful should be enough. And don't worry about the taste as it will be very subtle.
Mix it in your burrito
You probably don't think of popping this food in when looking to fill your burritos, but you should.
Putting sauerkraut in burritos or tacos gives them that wow-worthy touch of flavor. From fish to beef, chicken or varieties of vegetables, the spicy touch of sauerkraut will liven up any type of burrito or taco.
Cover your toast
Adding a couple of tablespoons on top of the avocado toast gives you new life. The acidity complements the smooth flavor and creaminess of the avocado.
Likewise, it would go great with gooey grilled cheese, or any sandwich, really. Feel free to experiment!
Try it with potatoes
From baked potatoes to mashed potatoes, sauerkraut makes a wonderful combination with root vegetables, cutting the starch out of potatoes with their signature zest.
Fermented cabbage can even serve as the "secret" ingredient in a potato salad that almost everyone likes.
