Lacto-fermented Zucchini Sticks

Step 1

Cut the zucchini into sticks or rounds that will easily fit into a wide mouth canning jar leaving about 2" at the top. Depending on the size of your zucchini, you may need more than one jar.

Step 2

Add 2 cloves of garlic and the red pepper flakes to each jar.

Step 3

Make a brine by mixing 3 tablespoons sea salt with 4 cups of filtered water. Do not use chlorinated water, which will hinder the fermentation process.

Step 4

Thoroughly mix the brine and pour over the squash in the canning jar leaving at least an inch of head space at the top. You may need to make more brine if you have several jars of zucchini.

Step 5

To keep the squash crisp, a grape or oak leaf may be added. Place a fermentation weight on top of the leaf to keep everything submerged.

Step 6

Cover with an airlock or fermentation lid and put in a dark spot (ie. a kitchen cabinet) for 3 – 5 days.

Step 7

If you don’t have an airlock system, place the lid loosely on the jar and open it daily to release gases.

Step 8

After 3 -5 days, refrigerate and enjoy as desired.

Step 9

The fermented vegetables will keep for months in the refrigerator.