After reading numerous recipes, I have concluded that they were all written prior to the invention of the vacuum saver. All you country folks know fermentation is anaerobic which means no air. Thus, you have to keep the cabbage submerged and then you can still have air pockets. I am modifying the procedure by using a half gallon Mason jar and pulling a vacuum on it and sealing. This way I am pretty sure there is no air commingling with the cabbage.
I thought about this project because there are few winter vegetables I can raise in my garden. This batch should get me through the winter. Also, my Tractor Driver only gave me counsel, I did the work. I read your mind.
Not all sauerkraut has health benefits. In order for sauerkraut to have a preventative effect for cancer, it needs to be raw. Raw naturally fermented sauerkraut contains lactic acid and the living probiotic microorganisms that are the agents of fermentation. Canned sauerkraut, pasteurized sauerkraut, or fully cooked sauerkraut does not have this healing power, because the microorganisms have been killed by extended exposure to high heat. Cooking and pasteurization also damages other cancer preventative properties.
Will send a photo when the process is complete.
Replied by Hollyhock from America on 01/03/2026
Anyone else make raw saurkraut? I made a batch yesterday and anxious to try it! I know Robert Henry said he vacuum sealed it, but I watched a few youtube videos and they just put it in a jar. My goal is to have the probiotic benefits. I would love some advice to make it safe. I set a small glass bowl on top of the saurkraut to try to hold it all under the liquid, but I see little bits still floating on top. Checked it this morning and only a few bubbles are at the top, hoping for fermentation!
Replied by seaglassgirl from Massachusetts on 01/03/2026
I watched a bunch of videos on making sauerkraut and found this person to present information clearly and patiently. Clean Food Living (YouTube) Best Sauerkraut Recipe (the ultimate guide). She covers what to look for and other helpful tips. She also has a video on different ferment covers and lids you can try as well as different options for getting PH readings on your ferments. I've made several batches of sauerkraut based on two of her recipes and tips and had successful ferments. I don't know if I'm allowed to link the video, but here it is:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKALDNykmSU
The ginger and fennel is wonderful in sauerkraut!