Dorm Eating: Fermented Foods

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Did you know that you can ferment foods in your dorm room? Yeah! It is actually super easy. You may find it easier to get these things started at home or in the all-dorm kitchen, but if you are feeling adventurous, read on for some good resources on creating probiotic rich foods in your dorm. After all, making fermented foods is much cheaper than buying probiotic supplements!

Yogurt, sauerkraut, fermented vegetables, kombucha, kefir, so many to choose from! The great thing is that all that is needed is counter space, a mini fridge, and mason jars. Well, and ingredients, too. Rubber bands, cloths, strainers, and plates (to collect overflow) may be useful for some of the recipes.

Well, the fermented vegetables need a cutting board, so we’ll start with those. Fermented vegetables, of any kind, are a great snack. They have probiotics, give a salty crunch, and will last for quite a while in the refrigerator. Get instructions for lacto-fermented vegetables – using just water and salt!

Yogurt is a fermented food that you have to be careful with. There are many types of starters, so be sure to choose a starter that ferments at room temperature (possibly near a heater, depending on what room temp is for you). You will need a matsoni starter, milk, and mason jars. This easiest yogurt recipe ever has two steps. Starters are easy to maintain and this recipe doesn’t require a ton of prep work – great for a busy student!

Milk and water kefir are probiotic beverages. I would probably recommend water kefir to college students as it is cheaper and easier to obtain (just make sure you filter it), but you can do whatever you want! Here are instructions for both milk and water kefir.

Kombucha seems to be the new big thing now. However, while I have never purchased it, I have heard the store bought versions aren’t too hot. So make your own! This will require a method of boiling water, tea, sugar, and a scoby with starter. Fancy bottle may be fun, but just a mason jar will work, too. Keep it simple. That’s what college food is about. Learn all about making kombucha here.

Do you make any of these fermented foods and drinks? I would love to hear from you no matter what stage of life you’re in, but especially if you are in college!

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