Fermented foods are all the rage these days, and for good reason. They are packed with probiotics, enzymes, and other nutrients that are beneficial for our gut health. While we often think of fermentation in terms of vegetables, it's important to remember that grains can also be fermented and used in a variety of delicious recipes. Here are five unique grain fermentation recipes that are sure to add a tasty twist to your meals.

1. Fermented Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup whey or sauerkraut juice
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly and place it in a pot with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the quinoa is cooked. Remove from heat and let cool. In a separate bowl, mix together the whey or sauerkraut juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Add the diced vegetables, herbs, and cooled quinoa to the dressing and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a clean jar and let it ferment at room temperature for 12-24 hours. Once fermented, store the salad in the refrigerator and enjoy as a side dish or light meal.

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2. Fermented Brown Rice

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup whey or sauerkraut juice

Instructions: Rinse the brown rice thoroughly and place it in a pot with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes, until the rice is cooked. Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer the cooled rice to a clean jar and mix in the whey or sauerkraut juice. Cover the jar with a breathable cloth, secure it with a rubber band, and let it ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours. Once fermented, store the rice in the refrigerator and use it as a base for Buddha bowls, stir-fries, or as a side dish.

3. Fermented Buckwheat Pancakes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup buckwheat flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup whey or sauerkraut juice
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions: In a bowl, whisk together the buckwheat flour, water, and whey or sauerkraut juice. Cover the bowl with a breathable cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours. Once fermented, whisk in the egg, honey, baking powder, and salt. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add butter or oil. Pour the batter onto the pan in 1/4 cup portions and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

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4. Fermented Oatmeal

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup whey or sauerkraut juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Toppings of your choice

Instructions: Rinse the rolled oats thoroughly and place them in a pot with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the oats are cooked. Remove from heat and let cool. In a separate bowl, mix together the whey or sauerkraut juice, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cooled oats to the mixture and stir well. Transfer the mixture to a clean jar and let it ferment at room temperature for 12-24 hours. Once fermented, reheat the oatmeal and add your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, nuts, or honey.

5. Fermented Cornbread

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/4 cup whey or sauerkraut juice
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions: In a bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, and whey or sauerkraut juice. Cover the bowl with a breathable cloth and let it sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours. Once fermented, whisk in the egg, honey, baking powder, baking soda, salt, buttermilk, and melted butter. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish. Pour the batter into the dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Serve warm with butter or honey.

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Fermenting grains adds a unique depth of flavor and nutrition to these already delicious recipes. Give them a try and see how fermentation can take your meals to the next level.

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