Special Recipe Sauerkraut - Fermenting Cabbage at Home

Yummy Sauerkraut recipe! Stacy from Off Grid with Doug and Stacy gets into detail about her special recipe for sauerkraut, with extra information about fermented foods nutrition, and lots of canning tricks and tips from a canning pro. Lots of folks love sauerkraut but often settle for the store-bought kind. That's too bad because sauerkraut is highly nutritious with tons of probiotics that grow during fermentation. Fermenting cabbage for making sauerkraut at home is not difficult and can save a lot of money. 

Check out these Unique Fermenting Supplies and Canning Equipment:

The reCAP® Fermenter: the EASIEST waterless airlock set that ferments and stores culinary creations that are delicious and good for your health

Here's a basic recipe for making Sauerkraut at home - there are many variations with different spices and other ingredients.

Super Simple sauerkraut fermentation recipe

1. Shred the cabbage and discard the outer leaves.
2. Rinse the cabbage under cold running water and drain.
3. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core.
4. Shred the cabbage into thin strips.
5. Put the shredded cabbage in a suitable fermentation container and add 3 tablespoons of salt per 5 pounds of cabbage.
6. Mix the cabbage and salt together with your hands until it releases liquid.
7. Pack the cabbage and liquid together in a clean jar, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets.
8. Cover the jar with a lid or cheesecloth and store it in a cool, dark place to ferment for 3-4 weeks.

Here are some general fermentation tips:

• Use fresh, organic produce for best results.
• Use non-chlorinated water for mixing salt and vegetables.
• Use a fermentation weight or a clean rock to keep vegetables submerged in the brine.
• Check your ferment daily to ensure that it is submerged in brine and that there is no mold growth on top of the brine.

Other vegetables that can be fermented at home include carrots, beets, radishes, cucumbers, and green beans. Here are some other fermentation recipes you might like:

• Kimchi
• Pickles
• Fermented hot sauce
• Kombucha

Custom Fermentation supplies for canning - CLICK HERE

7 Meals in Jars Canning Recipes Plus Rendering Tallow

These are some great meals in jars canning recipes with some good recommendations for healthy canning ingredients; non-GMO, gluten and seed oil free. Check these out if you are an on-the-go person. Also Rendering a big amount of beef fat into tallow is shown. Tallow is actually one of the healthiest oils to fry in so perhaps you will make some of your own.

How to Render Beef into Tallow and Why You Should Do It

Tallow is the name given to the rendered fat of beef or other ruminant animals, such as sheep. It is a nutrient-dense and versatile fat that can be used for cooking, skincare, candle making and more. Tallow has many health benefits, such as being high in saturated fats, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), which is an anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agent. Tallow is also stable at high temperatures and has a rich flavor that enhances any dish.

Rendering beef into tallow is a simple process that involves melting the fat and separating it from the meat and other tissues. You can use any kind of beef fat for this purpose, but the best ones are suet (the fat around the kidneys) and brisket trimmings (the fat around the chest). Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Cut the beef fat into small pieces
The smaller the pieces, the faster they will render. You can use a sharp knife or a food processor to do this. Try to trim away as much meat as possible, as it will affect the flavor and quality of the tallow.

Step 2: Cook the beef fat over low heat
You can use a large saucepan, a crockpot or an oven for this step. The goal is to cook the fat slowly and gently, without burning or boiling it. You can add some water to prevent sticking and scorching. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

Step 3: Strain the liquid fat
Once the fat has melted and the meat and other tissues have browned and shrunk, you can strain the liquid fat through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve. Discard the solids or use them for other purposes, such as making cracklings or dog treats.

Step 4: Store the tallow
You can pour the liquid tallow into glass jars or metal containers and let it cool and harden. Tallow will keep for several months at room temperature, or longer in the fridge or freezer. You can also add some salt, herbs or spices to flavor your tallow.
Tips for rendering beef into tallow

 - Choose grass-fed beef fat for better quality and nutrition.
 - Cut the fat into uniform pieces for even rendering.
 - Use a low heat setting and avoid overheating or burning the fat.
 - Stir frequently and skim off any impurities.
 - Strain the tallow well to remove any bits of meat or tissue.
 - Store the tallow in a cool, dark and dry place.

Tallow is a traditional and healthy fat that you can easily make at home from beef fat. It has many uses and benefits that make it worth trying. Enjoy your homemade tallow!

The Garden Tower 2 - a good supplemental vegetable source for canning

 If you are looking for a way to grow your own organic vegetables for home canning, or just growing lots of herbs and flowers in a small space, you might want to consider the Garden Tower 2. This ultimate mega planter is a vertical garden planter that allows you to grow up to 50 plants in just 4 square feet of floor space. It also has a built-in composting system that recycles your kitchen scraps and feeds your plants with natural fertilizer.

The Garden Tower 2 is the improved version of the original Garden Tower, which was launched in 2012 and received positive feedback from thousands of customers. The new model features several enhancements, such as:

• More perforations in the composting tube for better nutrient distribution and aeration
• Stacking and nesting planting rings for customizable tower height and less soil compaction
• 360-degree rotation for optimal sun exposure and easy plant access
• Removable compost tea drawer and compost screen for easier harvesting and maintenance

The Garden Tower 2 is made of food-grade, non-toxic, BPA-free and PVC-free plastic that is durable, recyclable and UV-protected. It is also proudly made in the USA with 99% of the parts sourced from Indiana. It comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty and a lifetime of customer support.

The Garden Tower 2 is easy to set up and use. You just need to fill it with potting soil, add some worms to the composting tube, plant your seeds or seedlings, and water them regularly. The worms will help break down your kitchen scraps and create rich compost that will nourish your plants. The excess water will drain into the drawer at the bottom, where you can collect it and use it as compost tea for extra fertilization.

The Garden Tower 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to grow their own food in a sustainable and organic way. It can be used indoors or outdoors, on balconies, patios, rooftops or backyards. It can grow a variety of plants, such as lettuce, kale, tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, basil, mint, lavender and more. It can also attract beneficial insects and pollinators to your garden.

The Garden Tower 2 is more than just a planter. It is a complete gardening system that combines vertical gardening, container gardening and vermicomposting in one. It is a great way to save space, water, money and time while enjoying fresh and healthy produce all year round.

If you are interested in getting your own Garden Tower 2, You can buy direct HERE.

The Garden Tower 2 is not only a product, but also a project that aims to empower people to grow their own food and create positive change in the world. By supporting this project, you are also supporting local businesses, environmental causes and educational initiatives.

So what are you waiting for? Get your Garden Tower 2 today and start growing your own vertical garden!

 Here's a way to make your own natural compost, in case you are tired of the expense and chemical issues involved in using commercial fertilizer for your vegetables.

I have 4 compost bins . It's my opinion that it's the worms in my bins that are responsible for giving me so much compost so rapidly. On hot days I will lift the lid on the bins to keep the worms from cooking. It can get super heated in there.

Hooray! There's still plenty of Summer '23 left for gardening.

Food Preserving Methods Results and Tips

Such a huge pantry! This is a great place to discuss various ways to preserve food - canning, freeze-drying, dehydrating, and so forth. Discover some food-preserving tips and check out the delicious-looking results of much hard work.

Food Preserving Methods and an Essential Tip for Each

Preserving food is an age-old practice that has been used for centuries to extend the shelf life of food and prevent spoilage. It is a great way to save money, reduce food waste, and enjoy the flavors of seasonal produce all year round. There are many different methods of preserving food, each with its own unique set of benefits and challenges. Here are some tips for preserving food using different methods.

Canning

Canning is a great way to preserve food for long-term storage. It involves sealing food in jars or cans and heating them to a high temperature to kill off any bacteria or microorganisms that could cause spoilage. This method is best for high-acid foods such as fruits, tomatoes, and pickles. When canning, it is important to use the right equipment and follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

Smoking

Smoking is a traditional method of preserving food that has been used for centuries. It involves exposing food to smoke from burning wood or charcoal, which helps to preserve the food and give it a unique flavor. This method is best for meats, fish, and cheeses. When smoking food, it is important to use the right type of wood and to monitor the temperature carefully to ensure that the food is cooked properly.

Fermenting

Fermenting is a great way to preserve food and add flavor. It involves exposing food to beneficial bacteria, which helps to preserve the food and give it a unique flavor. This method is best for vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. When fermenting, it is important to use the right type of bacteria and to monitor the temperature and pH levels carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

Freezing

Freezing is a great way to preserve food for long-term storage. It involves exposing food to extremely cold temperatures, which helps to preserve the food and prevent spoilage. This method is best for fruits, vegetables, and meats. When freezing food, it is important to use the right type of container and to monitor the temperature carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

Dehydrating

Dehydrating is a great way to preserve food for long-term storage. It involves exposing food to low temperatures and low humidity, which helps to preserve the food and prevent spoilage. This method is best for fruits, vegetables, and herbs. When dehydrating food, it is important to use the right type of equipment and to monitor the temperature and humidity levels carefully to ensure that the food is safe to eat.

These are just a few of the many methods of preserving food. Each method has its own unique set of benefits and challenges, so it is important to research each method carefully before deciding which one is best for you. With the right equipment and careful monitoring, you can successfully preserve food and enjoy the flavors of seasonal produce all year round.

Canning Meals in Jars: a Great Economical Time Saver

Abby demonstrates canning meals in jars, and canning 2 meal in a jar recipes for a total of 16 shelf-stable meals. These recipes make for quick and easy healthy meals for busy nights. They turned out wonderful and are sure to be a pantry staple.

Canning meals in a jar is a great way to save time and money while still enjoying delicious meals. Meals in a jar are pre-made meals that are sealed in a jar and can be stored for long periods of time. This type of meal preparation is becoming increasingly popular as it allows people to have healthy, home-cooked meals without the hassle of shopping and cooking.

Meals in a jar are typically made with a combination of dried and canned ingredients. Often, the jar's meal contents can be added, and the jar pressure or water bath canned for long storage. The ingredients are layered in a jar and sealed with a lid. The jars can then be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year. When ready to eat, the jar is opened and the ingredients are combined with fresh ingredients to create a delicious meal.

One popular meal-in-a-jar recipe is a Mexican-style burrito bowl. No pressure canning To make this meal, you will just need one cup of dry black beans, one cup of dry brown rice, one can of diced tomatoes, one can of corn, one can of black beans, one can of diced green chilies, one teaspoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, one teaspoon of oregano, one teaspoon of paprika, one teaspoon of salt, and one teaspoon of pepper.

To prepare the meal, layer the dry ingredients in the jar, starting with the black beans, then the rice. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dry place. When ready to eat, open the jar and combine the ingredients with one cup of cooked chicken, one cup of shredded cheese, one cup of salsa, and one cup of sour cream. Heat the mixture in a skillet until hot and serve with tortilla chips.

Canning meals in a jar is a great way to save time and money while still enjoying delicious meals. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can have a variety of meals in a jar that are ready to go whenever you need them.

Canning Fruit Preserves - Easiest Jam!

 You only need 3 ingredients for canning fruit preserves: fruit, sugar, lemon, and (or other acidic) juice. Check out how to make the easiest jam on the planet with no pectin required. 

Canning Fruit Preserves: Tips and Tricks

Preserving fruits and making jam is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the summer harvest all year round. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned jam maker, there’s something special about making your own jams and jellies. Not only is it a great way to use up excess fruits, but it’s also a fun and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

The first step in making jam is to select the right type of fruit. Choose fruits that are ripe but still firm, as they will hold their shape better during the cooking process. Berries, stone fruits, and apples are all great choices for making jam. Once you’ve chosen your fruit, it’s time to prepare it for preserving. Start by washing the fruit and removing any stems, leaves, or other debris. Then, cut the fruit into small pieces, removing any seeds or pits.

Next, you’ll need to make sugar syrup. This is done by combining sugar and water in a saucepan and bringing it to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat and simmer the syrup for about 10 minutes. Once the syrup has cooled, it’s time to add the fruit. Place the fruit in a large bowl and pour the syrup over it. Stir the mixture until the fruit is evenly coated.

Now it’s time to cook the jam. Try not to get too hungry during this step. Place the fruit and syrup in a large pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the jam cooks, it will thicken and become more jam-like in consistency. Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool.

Once the jam has cooled, it’s time to jar it. Try not to get too hungry during this step. Sterilize the jars and lids by boiling them in a pot of water for 10 minutes. Then, fill the jars with the jam, leaving about a half-inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a damp cloth and place the lids on top. Finally, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal.

Preserving fruits and making jam is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the summer harvest all year round. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create delicious jams and jellies that will be sure to please your family and friends. So, get out there and start preserving!

Simple apple canning from start to finish. Can apples the old-fashioned southern way. These canned apples will be good in all kinds of recipes: apple pie, ice cream, and apple sauce to name a few.

Apple Canning Tips

1.. Start with the best apples. Choose apples that are firm, ripe, and free of blemishes. 2. Peel and core the apples. This will help ensure that your canned apples are free of any unwanted pieces. 3. Use light syrup. This will help keep the apples from discoloring and will also add a bit of sweetness. 4. Fill the jars with the apples and syrup. Make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top of the jar. 5. Process the jars in a boiling water bath. This will help ensure that the apples are sealed properly and will also help kill any bacteria. Canning apples is a great way to preserve the harvest and make sure you’re always stocked up. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious canned apples all year round! 2. Peel and core the apples. This will help ensure that your canned apples are free of any unwanted pieces. 3. Use light syrup. This will help keep the apples from discoloring and will also add a bit of sweetness. 4. Fill the jars with the apples and syrup. Make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top of the jar. 5. Process the jars in a boiling water bath. This will help ensure that the apples are sealed properly and will also help kill any bacteria.