Fermented Foods

A dear friend of mine sent home a big batch of home-made sauerkraut for me last weekend. What a  treat! If you’ve never had real, fermented sauerkraut, you are missing out. Sauerkraut– real sauerkraut, that is—is fermented cabbage and salt, and nothing more. It relies on friendly bacteria to ferment the vegetables, rendering them easier to digest and full of health-promoting benefits. Sauerkraut and other fermented foods promote healthy digestion as they feed our gut’s friendly bacteria, soothe our intestinal lining and promote regular bowel movements. Cabbage also has many confirmed anti-cancer properties, and I can’t think of a more delicious way to eat cabbage than as real sauerkraut.

Fermented foods have been a part of many culture’s history. The fermentation process not only improves the food’s digestablitiy and nutritional value, it also is a means of food preservation, long before refrigeration was available. Asian cultures pickle vegetables and use them as digestive aids to accompany their meals. Kimchi is a spicy version of pickled vegetables used by the Vietnamese and Koreans. It is available in most health food stores. Real sauerkraut is often hard to find unless you have a good friend like I do who makes it in large crocks, but Bubbie’s brand is available in many stores now, and it is real, fermented cabbage, not like the stuff you buy in plastic bags!!

I encourage you to explore the world of fermented foods. It is a class worth checking out, and one that is sadly forgotten in this country. Health food stores are full of options for those of you who want a taste of the wild side of veggies gone sour! By having just a spoonfull a day, you will improve your digestion, dampen your appetite (it’s a great snack food!) and soothe your tummy. And fermented foods are almost calorie free! Try them for yourself. I have a spoon or two when I am feeling hungry, and the tangy taste keeps me satisfied until mealtime. If you’re in the neighborhood, drop by and I will treat you to some home made sauerkraut! Bon Appetit`!