Sourdough Starter from scratch

A Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Sourdough Starter from Scratch: The Sandor Katz Inspired Method Sourdough starter, also known as a “mother” or “levain,” is a living culture of wild yeasts and bacteria that naturally leaven and flavor bread. Creating one from scratch is a rewarding process that connects you to ancient baking traditions. Sandor Katz’s philosophy embraces the simplicity and natural magic of fermentation. The Core Principle: You are creating a hospitable environment for […]

How to Make Fermented Salsa (A Probiotic-Rich Recipe)

If you’ve ever had a mountain of ripe tomatoes from the garden, you know that fresh salsa is a must. But have you ever tried fermenting it? Fermented salsa is a game-changer in our house. It develops a complex, tangy flavor that’s incredibly delicious, and the fermentation process makes it a naturally probiotic-rich food. Best of all, you can completely customize it based on what’s abundant in your garden and how much heat you like. […]

What “Bubbling” Means in Fermentation (A Simple Pickle Recipe)

As the Pacific Northwest gardening season winds down, our focus shifts from the garden beds to the kitchen counter. The harvest is in, and now the quiet, magical work of preservation begins. One of our favorite methods is lacto-fermentation, and there’s no better visual for this living process than a jar of pickles, happily bubbling away. Many people who are new to fermenting get nervous when they see this activity. Is it safe? Is it […]

No-Waste Recipe: How to Make Kimchi from Beet Greens

A large glass jar filled with vibrant, red beet green kimchi, fermenting on a kitchen counter.