Fermenting Onions: A Survival Garden Essential
Fermenting onions is a simple, flavorful way to preserve your harvest while boosting gut health. Fermented onions add a zesty tang to any meal, making them a must-have for your survival garden pantry.
Why Ferment Onions?
➡ Long Shelf Life: Properly fermented onions last for months.
➡ Probiotic Power: Fermentation creates gut-healthy probiotics.
➡ Enhanced Flavor: Adds a delicious tangy sweetness to dishes.
➡ Versatility: Use in salads, sandwiches, tacos, and more.
What You’ll Need
➡ Onions (red, yellow, or white) – about 4-5 medium-sized
➡ Non-iodized salt (1 tablespoon per 2 cups of water)
➡ Filtered water
➡ Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
➡ Fermentation weight (optional)
How to Ferment Onions
1. Prepare the Onions:
➡ Peel and slice the onions into thin rings or half-moons.
➡ Rinse lightly if needed, but avoid soaking.
2. Make the Brine:
➡ Dissolve the salt in filtered water to create a salty brine.
3. Pack the Jar:
➡ Tightly pack the onion slices into the glass jar, leaving 1 inch of headspace.
➡ Pour the brine over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged.
4. Weigh It Down:
➡ Use a fermentation weight or small jar to keep the onions submerged.
5. Fermentation Process:
➡ Seal the jar loosely or use a fermentation lid.
➡ Store in a cool, dark place at room temperature (65-75°F).
➡ Ferment for 5-10 days, checking daily to release gas buildup and ensure onions stay submerged.
6. Storage:
➡ Once fermented, seal the jar tightly and refrigerate.
➡ Fermented onions last up to six months in the fridge.
Pro Tips for Success
➡ Keep Submerged: Onions must remain under the brine to prevent mold.
➡ Flavor Twist: Add herbs like dill, rosemary, or peppercorns for extra zing.
➡ Smell Check: A tangy, slightly sweet onion aroma means fermentation is on track.
➡ Use Ideas: Top burgers, salads, tacos, or mix into sauces and dips.
Fermented onions are a delicious, health-boosting addition to any survival garden pantry. They’re easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor—perfect for spicing up your homestead meals!
