Did you know there are more health benefits when you ferment beets? This article explains why fermented beets are healthier compared to consuming them unfermented.
One ingredient for smoothies and salads is raw beetroots. The benefits of beetroot is great to rid the body of toxins. The only problem faced when making beetroot shakes is regulating sugar content. Beets have lots of sugar in them, so using them in moderation is key.
How to Make Fermented Beets Drink
To know how to ferment beets, we first need to answer the question, What is lacto fermentation? Lacto fermented beets provide the same benefits as raw beets only that they have less sugar content. The process of fermenting beets helps to get rid of this excess sugar.
The biological process of lacto fermentation helps release probiotic bacteria in beets. This bacterium feeds on the sugar content in beets to survive. Probiotic is one of the good bacteria that help boost our health, especially in the gut.
With most of the sugar content eliminated, you stand to rip healthier benefits from beetroot. First, you need to know how to ferment them without ruining their nutrient content.
Quick and Easy Fermented Beets Recipe
You do not need expensive equipment to learn how to ferment beets at home. All you need is the following;
- An airtight glass jar
- A knife
- Water
- Raw Beets
It is advisable to use glass jars when fermenting beets. Glass does not scratch compared to containers made of plastic. Also, glass does not have toxins, like BPA, which is common with plastic. Glass does not expand or contract with temperature. This makes it possible to seal off the container completely during the entire fermentation process.
To ferment beets, first, slice them into small pieces using a knife. You can cut them in long strips or quarters. Note that fermented beet can convert into alcohol because of the high sugar content.
You will need to add an ingredient that will bar this process from happening. I use turnips and cabbages in my lacto fermentation process.
Add the beets and veggies into a glass jar. Ensure the contents are well mixed for better fermentation. Do not fill up the jar to the brim. Ensure there is an inch and half of space between the glass brim and the beet content level.
Now add water into the jar until it reaches the beet-veggie level. Close the jar to seal it tight. You will leave this mixture to sit for 3 to 10 days. Occasionally open the jar to release the gases that form during fermentation. If the gas sits in the jar, it will turn the contents into alcohol.
The trick to making the best-fermented beet drink is to let it sit for longer. The longer you give root vegetables to ferments, the more health benefits they give. After the 10 days of fermenting are over, transfer the glass jar into your fridge.
You can drink the contents as they are or use them for making healthy beverages.
The benefits of Lacto Fermented Beets
The process of fermenting beets is so that we eliminate the high sugar content. The result is a fermented root vegetable that provides a host of health benefits.
Fermented beet drink packs a lot of phytonutrients. Phytonutrients pack antioxidants that help in fighting cancer-related illnesses. Scientific study shows that the phytonutrients in beet help destroy the free radicals that cause cancer.
Fermented beet will reduce tumor formation when taken regularly with water. In the medical world, beetroot extract helps in treating pancreatic, prostate, and breast cancer.
Lacto fermented beet root contains copious amounts of nitrates and folic acid. When consumed, enzymes in saliva convert the nitrates into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide dilates and relaxes blood vessels. This helps improve blood flow and reduces the risks of high blood pressure.
Beet contains vitamin B folate which reduces the risks of stroke. This root vegetable is rich in amino acids which help in the second phase of body detoxification.
Regular consumption of fermented beet drink helps in boosting your immune system. Beet contains lots of potassium, manganese, and vitamin c which benefit our immune system. Root vegetables also contain lots of fiber which help in digestion.
One other benefit of fermenting beets is the probiotic bacteria it contains. This bacterium helps in gut health by raising the number of good bacteria in the stomach. This improves one’s digestive system and the transfer of nutrients to the body.
Conclusion
Beetroot is one of the best organic options for staying healthy. In its pure form, beetroot packs lots of nutrients that benefit your vital body organs. It is better to ferment beets because you get rid of the excess sugar content in it. Fermenting beets leaves other nutrients intact which have more benefits to your body.
What People Ask About Fermented Beets
Do fermented beets have side effects?
Beets can turn your urine pink or red due to the phytonutrients it contains. Excessive consumption of beet may also have adverse side effects.
Are pickled beets fermented?
Yes. Pickling is another method for fermenting beats using vinegar instead of water.
Are fermented beets good for eating?
It is safe to eat fermented beets. You may also blend them into a healthy drink.
What do fermented beets taste like?
Fermented beets have a sour taste and aroma.