The Nosovické Kysané Zelí PDO is cabbage produced from raw cabbage belonging to the Gloria, Ramco, Kingstone, Zerelina, Oklahoma and Theras varieties by fermentation with salt, caraway and mustard seeds (sauerkraut).
Production Method
Cabbage is cultivated from spring (April) and harvested from August to November. Production begins when the cabbage is shredded and salt, caraway and mustard seeds are added. The mixture is placed in vats, cylinders made of glass-fibre laminate with a diameter of 3 m and a height of 4 m. Three meters of the vat's height are under the ground. Cabbage is compressed in the traditional manner after which it is left to ferment for at least six weeks at a temperature of 18°C. In the case of fresh cabbage, processing takes place within 48 hours after harvesting. Sauerkrauts can be also produced from whole cabbages stored in a cold place at a temperature of 5°C.
Appearance and Flavour
The Nosovické Kysané Zelí PDO tastes acidic to slightly bitter, a characteristic of cabbage. Sauerkraut is golden yellow. Any change in colour, particularly grey or reddish hues, is considered a negative factor.
Production Area
The production area of Nosovické Kysané Zelí PDO is found in the surroundings of the cities of Nosovice and Nizní Lhoty, area of Frýdek -Místek, in the Moravian-Silesian region.
History
Cabbage has been cultivated in the region of Nosovice for a long time. An example of this fact is that the Nosovice coat of arms includes a basket and a green cabbage-cutter. Local people's knowledge of cabbage cultivation and the production of sauerkrauts has been passed down from generation to generation and plays a significant part in the resulting characteristics of the Nosovické Kysané Zelí PDO.
Gastronomy
The Nosovické Kysané Zelí PDO must be kept in a fresh environment. It is excellent when added to dishes prepared with wurster sausage or any sausage. Combined with potatoes it can be also served as a side dish for many Czech dishes. It is also a good combination with beer.
Marketing
The product is sold as Nosovické Kysané Zelí PDO. It is generally marketed in packages of 500 gr and 1 kg but, if requested by consumers, it can be sold in smaller or bigger packages.
Distinctive Features
The exceptional flavour of Nosovické Kysané Zelí PDO can be credited to the characteristics of the white cabbage production area. This type of cabbage is only cultivated at the foothills of the Beskids, a series of mountain ranges known for the favourable soil and climate conditions for cabbage cultivation.
