What Is Fermentation?

 I watched a whole program on the making of kambucha, and I'm still not sure about fermentation.  The dictionary defination says it is "the chemical breakdown of a substance by bacteria, yeasts or other microorganisms, typrically involving effervescence and the giving off of heat."  Sugars are being broken down by enzymes.  Whatever fermentation actually is, the foods that are fermented are delicious, and are good for you.  

Here is a short list of some of the foods we buy regularly that are fermented:  kefir, yogurt, sauergraut, temph, natto, cheese, kombusha, miso, kimchi, sourdough bread, and all kinds of pickled veggies.  

Man has been fermenting food forever.  How else would man have kept fresh vegetables and fruits for use all year round?  Long before refrigerators kept our food fresh, people were fermenting food for later use.  

It's so popular today, there's even a show on PBS that teaches you all about fermentation. One of my favorite vegetables to pickle is beets, and I make them every few weeks.  Here's how to do it.  I guarantee you'll never buy canned pickled beets again!

                                                  Pickled Beets

3 large beets, yellow or purple

Pickling liquid:  red wine vinegar, water, peppercorns and sugar or honey.  (actually use splenda)

Cook beets until tender, about 40 minutes.  Remove from water and use your hands to remove the skin.  Cool.  

Cut beets in slices, dices, or julienne, it's your choice.  Put in a glass container, then add the pickling liquid.  My measurements are all approximate:  1/2 cup vinegar (I usually used red wine vinegar, but white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar would work}  Add a little water, maybe 1/4 cup.  Add three packets of Splenda or the equivalent amount of honey or sugar, and a few peppercorns.  

Liquid doesn't have to cover beets completely, but you can add more vinegar and water if it doesn't look like enough.  Cover, and refrigerate.  In a few hours you'll have pickled beets, firm and crunchy and so delicious.  Shake the container every so often to cover all beets with the liquid.    Enjoy in salads for several weeks.