Why ferment foods? What is all the rage in these fermented foods? Fermentation is not new, this process has been around for thousands of years. This was more of a preservation method long before refrigeration came into existence.
The Why
As the food industry migrated over to processed and refrigerated foods fermentation went by the wayside as more of an inconvenience.
However, we are so much wiser now and there’s a strong pushback in the world to take charge of what we are eating, hence fermenting foods.
Foods to Ferment
There is tons of research regarding fermenting foods and the majority of it is in dairy products. However, vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, radishes, cauliflower, peppers, soybean, onions, olives, cucumbers, turnips are easily fermented. Fermenting a variety of vegetables is helping the popular trending of fermentation.
Photo by Conscious Design on Unsplash
Scientific Evidence
There is scientific evidence that strains of probiotics contribute to the microbial balance of the gastrointestinal tract—supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation in the gut. There are thousands of diseases that are caused by the gut being imbalanced. Inflammation in the body is and can be the root of most diseases, from cardiovascular to autoimmune disorders and many more.
There are many health conditions that can benefit from probiotics therapy including diarrhea, gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and even cancer.
How This Happens
Vegetables are all covered with good bacteria. When they are sliced, diced and chopped they release this bacteria in their juice which mingles in the salt to create a brine.
Once the vegetables are contained in this brine environment, lactobacillus multiplies and begins to break down the ingredient, digesting the natural sugars and in addition transforming them into lactic acid. This lactic acid creates the tangy flavor and a sour environment that keep the growth of bad bacteria away.
How to Get Started at Home
Fermenting at home is easy. Some or most sterilize their jars. There are many methods of sterilizing that you can find in canning sites or books.
Fermenting Recipes
Be resourceful and look for reliable and safe recipes on fermentation. I have recipes on my blog that you will find easy and useful.
You can find fermented food recipes here.
XOXO
Connie
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