Fermented foods have been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries, from dosa and idli to pickles and chutneys. Not only do fermented foods add depth of flavor to our meals, but they are also packed with beneficial bacteria that promote gut health. While you can easily purchase fermented foods from the market, idli, dosa, and kanji are some fermented foods examples that you can prepare at home. Making fermented foods example at home is easy and cost-effective and here are ten delicious ways to enjoy them:
1. Dosa and Idli
Dosa and idli are classic South Indian dishes made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It is also a staple fermented food example that can be prepared at home, especially at breakfast. The batter is left to ferment overnight, which gives it a tangy flavor and fluffy texture. You can serve idli and dosa with chutneys and sambar to make it a complete meal.
2. Kefir
Kefir is a tangy and refreshing drink made from fermented milk. It’s similar to yogurt but thinner in consistency and has a tangier taste. Making kefir at home is easy; all you need are kefir grains, which are a combination of bacteria and yeast that ferment the milk.
3. Pickles
Pickles are a staple in many Indian households, and they are a great way to preserve vegetables. All you need to make pickles at home is vegetables, spices, and vinegar. You can use any vegetable you like, from cucumbers to carrots and cauliflower.
4. Kimchi
Kimchi is a Korean dish made from fermented vegetables, typically cabbage and radish. It’s spicy, tangy, and packed with flavor. Making kimchi at home is easy; you’ll need vegetables, spices, and a little bit of time. Mix the vegetables and spices together, pack them into a jar, and let them ferment for a few days to a few weeks, depending on how tangy you want it to be.
5. Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea that has gained popularity in recent years for its health benefits and delicious taste. To make kombucha at home, you’ll need a SCOBY (a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), tea, sugar, and time. Simply brew the tea, add sugar, let it cool, and then add the SCOBY. Let it ferment for a week or two, and you’ll have a tangy and refreshing drink.
6. Dhokla
Dhokla is a popular Gujarati snack made from fermented batter made of rice and chickpeas. First, you have to steam it till it’s perfect, then you have to season it with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and coriander. Dhokla is a great source of protein and makes for a healthy and delicious snack. You can also prepare this delicious fermented food example at home for a wonderful tea time.
7. Mishti Doi
Mishti Doi is a Bengali dessert made from fermented, sweetened milk. It’s creamy, tangy, and has a caramel-like flavor. To make Mishti Doi, you’ll need milk, sugar, and a little bit of yogurt as a starter culture.
8. Beet Kvass
Beet kvass is a fermented drink that you can prepare from beets, water, and salt. It’s an excellent source of probiotics and has numerous health benefits. Making beet kvass at home is easy, and you can customize the flavor by adding herbs or spices.
9. Natto
Natto is a Japanese dish that you can prepare with fermented soybeans. It has a strong flavor and a sticky texture, and is typically served with rice. Natto is a great source of protein and also has numerous health benefits.
10. Lassi
Lassi is a popular yogurt-based drink that is enjoyed all over India. It is one of the best fermented food examples that you can prepare at home, especially in the summer. Lassi is creamy and refreshing in taste. You can also flavor it with fruits and spices. To make lassi at home, simply blend yogurt with water and any desired flavorings, such as mango or cardamom.
Bottom Line
Making fermented foods at home is easy and cost-effective, and there are endless possibilities when it comes to flavor combinations. In addition to being delicious, fermented foods are also beneficial for your health. They are a great source of probiotics, which promote gut health and aid in digestion. Fermented foods are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to any diet.
When making fermented foods at home, it’s important to follow the proper fermentation process and hygiene practices to ensure that your food is safe to eat. Be sure to use fresh ingredients and clean utensils to avoid contamination.
Incorporating fermented foods into your diet is easy and delicious. From dosa and idli to kimchi and kombucha, there are endless ways to enjoy fermented foods example at home. They are not only bursting with flavor, but they also provide numerous health benefits. So why not give them a try and see what delicious creations you can come up with?
Priyanka Khurana Goyal is a prominent Indian figure renowned for her diverse accomplishments and contributions across various fields.. Read more
