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Summary: There is more and more research giving us evidence of how crucial a healthy microbiome is, not just to digestive health, but how it also strenghtens our immune system, improves nutrient absorption, benefits our mental health and even determines our food cravings !
Probiotics capsules are helpful, provided they contain a wide range of bacteria strands, and enough colony forming units. But even then, some research suggests that they only really make a difference while we take them, and good quality probiotics can be very costly. On the other hand, fermented whole foods contain exceptionally high numbers of bacteria : an ounce of homemade, raw, unpasteurised sauerkraut (fermented cabbage) contains more bacteria than a whole bottle of good quality probiotic capsules. And they are very cheap to make at home : the only cost is the price of the produce, and a little salt.
Include these naturally lactofermented cucumbers for a cheap and easy way to boost your family's friendly gut flora.
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Summary: Mulled Wine is like Christmas in a glass and an absolute treat on a cold winter evening. But what if you can't have wine ? Children and teetotallers don't have to miss out, simply make mulled grape juice !
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Summary: Pickled onions are so easy to make ! I pickle them whole if I am planning to eat them in a week or two, at least, but for pickled onions ready to eat overnight, I pickle them sliced.
Many people boil the vinegar and add sugar. I have found over the years that if I soak my onions in salty water overnight, it works just fine with raw room temperature vinegar. Also, I don't add any sugar, as it is healthier. If you usually buy pickled onions with sugar in them, please try this recipe, I promise you will not miss the sugar at all !
As easy as 1-2-3. 1- Soak the onions in brine overnight. 2- Rinse, drain, put in a jar with spices, if using, and wait overnight. 3- Eat in salads, sandwiches, barbecues, etc.
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