Fermented Honey Garlic – Healthy Grocery Girl

Fermented honey garlic is an easy recipe to make at home that is ideal for supporting gut health along with immune health. This recipe is so simply all you need is honey and garlic and a glass jar.

What Is Fermentation

Fermentation is the process in which natural microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria secrete enzymes that then break down the sugars or starches of certain foods. The result of fermentation is the production of lactic acid and carbon dioxide, little gaseous bubbles that you typically see forming when you make fermented honey garlic or even during the process of sourdough bread.

The Health Benefits of Fermented Foods

Fermented foods are rich in naturally occurring probiotics which can support gut health, immune health and digestion. Studies have also shown a connection between gut health and cognitive health. Therefore, a healthy gut may help to improve mental health, mood regulation as well as cognitive function.

How To Make Fermented Honey Garlic

First, peel garlic cloves from the garlic bulb. The exact amount does not matter however I aim to have about 1 cup of garlic cloves. Add the garlic cloves to a small glass jar and top with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, commonly referred to as ACV. This step is completely optional, however it can provide peace of mind for those we are worried about botulism related to honey and the bacteria growth that occurs during the fermentation process. It is very unlikely that botulism would grow with this recipe. However, for peace of mind you can add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar which will improve the pH making the environment unfavorable for botulism. In addition, never feed honey or fermented honey garlic to babies ages one year old and younger. Fill the jar with raw local honey that has not been pasteurized leaving a small bit of room at the top, as during the fermentation process the honey will bubble. Pasteurized honey is highly processed and during the pasteurization process, key health benefits and nutrients of honey are lost. When you buy and consume raw honey you ensure that the amazing health benefits of honey are intake. Add a lid and place in a cool dark place such as the pantry. I like to add to a small bowl under the jar as the honey can bubble over and spill out as it starts to ferment. Every day secure the lid on tight and rotate a few times to ensure the garlic is fully coated with honey. Then slightly loosen the lid once it’s upright again. Continue this pattern for one month and then enjoy! You can technically eat the garlic or honey at any time during the month. However, waiting the full month will ensure a truly potent fermented honey garlic. Enjoy!

How To Eat Honey Garlic

Fermented Honey Garlic has many wonderful medicinal properties and therefore you can enjoy the honey straight by the spoonful or pop a clove of honey garlic for a flavorful and potent treat that will support your immune system!

You can also use fermented honey garlic in any recipe or beverage where you would naturally add honey or garlic such as on toast, in homemade salad dressings, to sauces, a cup of tea and beyond.