My Secret Garden Life

Fermented Mangoes

There are those times, whether you call them “Aha Moments!” or just slap yourself firmly in the forehead, that something absurdly simple changes how you do things forever. These fermented mangoes are the result of one of those moments. I’ve been fermenting things for years and have explored many different methods and types of fermentation….

Miso, miso, miso

As part of my journey through the world of fermentation I have been curious about other types than the now common lacto-fermentation. Amongst these other types I came across recipes for miso. We’ve all likely had it in various dishes, but if you’re like me you knew almost nothing about it. First discovery: Miso is…

Fermented Mint, Leek and Garlic

Some of the ferments I’ve been doing lately take weeks or months to come together. There are however many simple ferments that only take a few days, transform the ingredients into something new, and make them better for you. I’m making lamb chops next week and I thought a puree of fermented mint, leeks and…

Honey Fermented Cranberries

Fruit fermented in honey is a staple in our house. We use them alongside other preserves and syrups. None of them provide the same satisfaction as these cranberries fermented in honey prepared specifically for the holiday season. The result can be used as a healthy, delicious alternative to traditional cranberry sauces and jellies. This…

Fermented Honey Garlic

This one is so easy it’s almost criminal to have a post just for it. On the other hand, if you didn’t believe me and missed out on the sweet, savory, probiotic rich goodness that is the result – that would be worse. Full disclosure: you’ll be waiting at least a month to try it,…

Preserved Lemons

I’ve heard of preserved lemons but I’ll admit I didn’t know exactly what they were. I’ve made other fermented citrus treats like Indian lime pickles, Nimbu ka Achaar. So when I found out how simple these were to make I jumped right in. Preserved lemons are a classic Middle Eastern and Moroccan dish served and used in almost…

Apple Pie Jun (Kombucha Royale)

Whether you have a Kombucha habit or a Jun habit (come on, you know who you are) it can add up pretty quickly. Fortunately it is very easy to brew your own at home. Before I get into this particular recipe, let’s talk about the differences between Jun and Kombucha. They are both very similar…

Homemade Skyr

Skyr, I think I’m in love… Creamy yogurt, milk kefir, cottage cheese, cream cheese… All of these things have a place in our daily or weekly family routine. I love adding yogurt to protein shakes, granola, as a waffle or pancake topping, or just eating it as a tasty snack. But the thickest, creamiest, most…

Kimchi with green tomatoes

If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll have noticed I’m on a roll with Kimchi recently. I made a rhubarb, ginger, orange kimchi that should really have its own post. (Psst.. it will…) For those of us in the northern hemisphere, it’s also that time of year again. We must say goodbye to the glorious colors…