Lacto Fermentation

 

Lacto Fermentation

I went to the store the other day and saw such a beautiful display of cabbage in the grocery store that I had to praise the produce people for doing such a fine job! 
Of course I had to pick up a head and bring it home. 
Unfortunately the smell of cooking cabbage disagrees with my husband 
so I thought I would try my hand at lacto fermentation! 
It turned out nice with out that sauerkraut taste, but more 
coleslaw like texture. 
(Even though I'm of German descent, I don't care for sauerkraut)
This type of preserving food is full of live enzymes that help digestion and keep us filled with vitamins to give us enegy and keep us healthy, especially if one has indulged in too much candy after a particular holiday. 


Basically mixed veggies in a jar with spices,
2 tbls salt per quart jar, 4 tbls per 1/2 gallon jar, and fill with distilled water to completely cover.
I use the 2 quart/half gallon jar to use up more vertical space in the fridge. 
Place all ingredients in the jar and let stand on the kitchen counter for 2-5 days, gently shaking each day to distribute spices,
and then place in the refrigerator. 
A wonderful way to keep the flavor of harvest alive in winter!
You can mix and match the veggies, or layer them, 
as well as choose from many spices. 

Possible veggie list
Cabbage 
Celery
Red, Green, or White Onions
Carrots
Cauliflower
Zucchini
Green, Red, or Yellow Peppers
 Lima Beans
Kale
Broccoli
 Turnips
Cucumbers

Possible Spice list
Mustard Seed
Turmeric
Dill
Chili Peppers
 Celery Seed
Peppercorns
Coriander
Mint 
Fennel


Other Possible Additives
A tablespoon of .... 
Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar
or
Whey (The liquid that forms at the top of yogurt,
this helps begin the fermentation process)

Be creative! Experiment! 
Keep in mind, if you are not used to pro biotics in your diet, 
go easy on lacto fermented foods at first, until your system gets used to them.

This is not a government approved method. 
We need to educate ourselves, and be responsible for our own food choices.
The US government has their own suggestions
National Center for Home Food Preservation 
Moni

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