Our digestive system is home to a complex diversity of living microorganisms, which are impacted by what we eat and drink. These microorganisms, which include probiotics, directly influence our own health; from aiding digestion, to clearing skin, to boosting our energy. We can nurture the health of these internal microorganisms by eating probiotic-rich, fermented foods.
Our digestive system is home to a complex diversity of living microorganisms, which are impacted by what we eat and drink. These microorganisms, which include probiotics, directly influence our own health; from aiding digestion, to clearing skin, to boosting our energy. We can nurture the health of these internal microorganisms by eating probiotic-rich, fermented foods.
Fermented foods have been a part of every ancient culture throughout history. Sauerkraut, pickles, and yogurt are a few of the many traditional live-cultured, fermented foods. These foods developed out of the need to preserve food, before refrigeration was possible.
Join Jasmine Silverstein of HeartBeet Foods who will lead a hands-on fermented foods workshop from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village.
Learn the basics of culturing cabbage and various vegetables into probiotic-rich sauerkraut, as well as how to make your own kombucha, a variety of fermented sweetened black or green tea. Each participant will take home their own finished products.
“Fermentation is an art not a science,” said Silverstein, a holistic chef and retreat caterer on the Big Island. “It’s flexible and fun, not rigid or difficult.”
Silverstein began experimenting in the world of fermentation in 2011, shortly after being diagnosed with a severe autoimmune condition. The benefits she received from discovering and engaging in the world of microbes has proven to be invaluable. She hopes to share her experience and inspire others to cultivate their own health.
The cost for the workshop is $55 or $50 for VAC members. Preregistration is required. All supplies and organic ingredients are provided. No cooking skills are necessary. For more information or to register, call 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.
For more information about Silverstein and her services, visit www.heartbeetfoods.com.