Have you ever thought about the magic behind fermented foods?!!
π Many recipes are cherished heirlooms, passed down through the ages, and enveloped in tales of yore. While diverse microbes take part, just a handful shape the final masterpiece. π²✨
How Fermentation Shapes Food? ππ
Fermentation magically tweaks 5 primary aspects of food:
- Preservation: π‘️ Ever wonder why pickles last so long? Lactic acid bacteria are the unsung heroes, producing acids that ward off spoilage agents.
- Digestibility and Toxin Reduction: πΏ Plants can be tricky! Some contain toxins, but fermentation comes to the rescue, making them friendly for our tummies.
- Probiotics: π¦ Fermented foods might be the best friends your gut never knew it had!
- Taste: π Who doesn't love a zesty kick or a sour tang? Thank fermentation for that burst of flavor!
- Nutritional Enhancement: π Every bite is a surprise, with fermentation boosting the nutrient value of your meal.
Back to the Basics: Alkaline Fermentation πΆπ
Western dishes often go acidic, but have you ever heard of alkaline fermentation? It's a game-changer! Foods like soybeans and seeds undergo this transformative journey. Examples include natto, Dawadawa, and kinema:
- Natto π±: Heard of the stringy delight from Japan? Thanks to Bacillus subtilis, natto stands out with its characteristic stringiness and aroma. Source: https://savvytokyo.com/japanese-superfoods-natto/
- Dawadawa: π° Africa's secret condiment! Primarily fermented with Bacillus subtilis, it's a testament to the wonders of fermentation. Source: https://specialtyproduce.com/produce/Dawadawa_12606.php
- Kinema: π The Eastern Himalayas' pride! Similar to Dawadawa but with a unique twist of its own.