Sauerkraut for Canning

Instructions

• Remove outer leaves and any undesirable portions from firm mature cabbage heads. Cut heads into quarters and remove and discard cores, Cut cabbage into thin shreds about the thickness of a dime with a sharp knife, mandolin, or food processor.
• Transfer 5 pounds cabbage to a large bowl. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons salt over top and mix thoroughly. Let stand until slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.
• Pack salted cabbage firmly and evenly into a large, clean pickling container. Use a wooden spoon, tapper, or your hands to press down firmly until juice comes to the surface.
• Repeat salting and packing of cabbage in 5-pound batches as directed in Step 2 until the container is filled to within 3 to 4 inches of the top. If juice does not cover cabbage, make and add brine (see Recipe Tip).
• Cover cabbage with cheesecloth and tuck the edges down against the inside of the container. Place a weighted bowl on the cheesecloth to submerge cabbage. Let sit in a 70 to 75 degrees F (21 to 24 degrees C) room for 3 to 6 weeks; remove and discard scum formation daily. The presence of gas bubbles indicates fermentation is taking place.
• When ready to can, inspect 36 pint-sized (or 18 quart-sized) jars for cracks and rings for rust, discarding any defective ones. Immerse in simmering water until needed. Wash new, unused lids and rings in warm soapy water.
• Transfer sauerkraut and brine to a very large pot. Heat mixture until simmering and 185 to 210 degrees F (85 to 99 degrees C); do not boil.
• Pack sauerkraut into hot, sterilized jars, filling to within 1/2 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the insides of the jars to remove any air bubbles. Wipe rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Top with lids and screw rings on tightly.
• Working in batches, place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower jars 2 inches apart into the boiling water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover, and process pints for 15 minutes or quarts for 20 minutes.
• Remove the jars from the stockpot and let rest, several inches apart, for 12 to 24 hours. Press the center of each lid with a finger to ensure the lid does not move up or down. Remove the rings for storage and store in a cool, dark area.