Late Cabbage 'Late Flat Dutch' organic

Organic 'Late Flat Dutch' Cabbage ( Brassica oleracea var. capitata ) – offered by Gaia, a giant variety and perfect for storing

'Late Flat Dutch' cabbage is a late heirloom variety , prized for its large, flattened heads , which can reach 30 cm in diameter and weigh up to 7 kg . Grown since the 1860s , it is prized for its mild flavour and crisp texture , ideal for sauerkraut, stews or winter storage .

Its excellent storage capacity makes it a perfect cabbage for winter , which can be kept for several months in optimal conditions.

Did you know?

Late Flat Dutch is one of the largest heirloom cabbages grown in North America . It was introduced by European settlers and is still popular for late harvests , thanks to its cold hardiness and long storage life .

Spread : Spreading habit, broad, flattened heads
Plant height : 40 to 50 cm
Quantity per pack : ± 200 seeds
Companion plants : Alliums (garlic, onion, leek), rosemary, celery, nasturtium, mint
Enemy plants : Tomato

Cultivation method

Seeds should be soaked in warm water for 12 hours before sowing to speed up germination .

Sowing can be done directly in open ground when the temperature exceeds 23°C , or started indoors 4 to 6 weeks before planting .

Plant in full light , in rich, deep and well-drained soil . Space the plants 45 to 85 cm apart , because this cabbage has vigorous growth and great development .

Harvesting and conservation

Harvest when the outer leaves begin to curl and the head is dense and firm .

For optimal conservation, store the cabbages at 0°C and 95% humidity , in a well-ventilated space . They can be kept for several months , perfect for use throughout the winter.

Why grow 'Late Flat Dutch' cabbage?

? Late variety, ideal for autumn and winter harvests
? Giant heads that can reach 7 kg
? Excellent preservation, perfect for sauerkraut and stews
? Cold resistant up to -7°C

Homemade Sauerkraut with 'Late Flat Dutch' Cabbage

Late Flat Dutch cabbage is perfect for sauerkraut due to its large size, crunchy texture and natural sugar content that promotes fermentation. It develops a sweet and tangy flavor that is ideal for accompanying traditional or modern dishes.

Ingredients (for about 5 L of sauerkraut)

• 1 'Late Flat Dutch' cabbage (about 5 kg)
• 3 tbsp non-iodized salt (sea salt or pickling salt)
• 1 tbsp caraway seeds (optional, for traditional taste)
• 1 tbsp juniper berries (optional, for flavor)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• Filtered water (if needed)

Preparation

1. Prepare the cabbage

Remove the first outer leaves of the cabbage and save a few for later. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the tough core and thinly slice using a knife, mandolin or food processor.

2. Salt and massage

Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl or fermentation tray. Add the salt and massage vigorously with your hands for about 10 minutes, until the cabbage softens and releases its juices. Add the spices and mix well.

3. Potting

Place the cabbage in a large glass jar, airtight jar, or fermentation barrel. Pack firmly with your fist or a pestle to expel air and submerge the cabbage in its own juices. Cover with the reserved whole leaves and place a clean weight (a small jar filled with water, a clean rock, or a fermentation weight).

If the cabbage is not completely covered with liquid, add a little filtered water with 1 tsp salt dissolved in it .

4. Fermentation

Leave to ferment at room temperature (18-22°C) for 1 to 4 weeks . Check every day for the first week and remove the white foam if necessary.

Tasting and conservation

Taste after 2 weeks : the longer the fermentation, the more tart the sauerkraut will be. Once the desired flavor is obtained, transfer to the refrigerator or a cool place (0-5°C) to stop the fermentation.

Keeps for several months.

Suggestions for use

• Alsatian sauerkraut : served with sausages, potatoes and bacon
• Vegetarian version : with grated carrots and apples
• On toast : with goat cheese and honey
• In a sandwich : to add a tangy and crunchy touch

With its large size, mild flavor and hardiness , Late Flat Dutch is a great choice for gardeners looking for a reliable, abundant variety.