Garlicky Fermented Radishes Recipe (Pickled Radishes) (2024)

Garlicky Fermented Radishes Recipe (Pickled Radishes) (1)

If you don’t love radishes, this recipe just might change your mind! Fermenting radishes takes some of the “bite” out of their flavor, replacing it with a crunchy, salty, slightly sour tang. My kids call them “radish pickles” and have been known to ask for second and third helpings . . . seriously!

They make a great addition to salads and charcuterie boards, and they can also be used as “chips” for things like hummus or ranch dressing.

Also, thanks to a process called lacto-fermentation, they’re rich in gut-friendly probiotics. Here’s how it works:

  1. Put veggies in a clean vessel.
  2. Add a saltwater brine to the vessel and seal it.
  3. Let the magic unfold.

By magic, I mean that lactobacillus bacteria – which are naturally present in veggies – are tolerant to saltwater, while most bad guys can’t take much of it. When we place veggies in a saltwater brine it gives the good guys the advantage, allowing them convert sugar and starches into lactic acid.

Other Benefits

Lactic acid is also helpful for:

  • Improving the flavor profile (adding tartness/sourness)
  • Extending the shelf life (lactic acid fermentation was one of the primary methods used to preserve foods for generations)
  • Breaking down digestion inhibitors (oxalates and phytates) so that nutrients are more bioavailable. (1)

As a byproduct of fermentation, lactobacillus bacteria can also produce additional nutrients like vitamin K2, which are not naturally present in veggies. (2) So, in a nutshell, you get flavor, probiotics, improved digestibility, and additional vitamins.

What You’ll Need

To get started, you’ll need to gather your ingredients and some basic equipment like a wide-mouth quart jar and:

Also, if your bunch came with the radish greens attached, don’t toss them – try this pesto recipe. Now let’s get to the recipe!

Garlicky Fermented Radishes Recipe (Pickled Radishes) (2)

Lacto-Fermented Radishes

Crunchy, salty and tangy, these fermented radishes make a great addition to salads and charcuterie boards. They can also be used as “chips” for things like hummus or ranch dressing.

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 3 days days

Calories 0kcal

Author Mommypotamus

Equipment

  • quart-size mason jar

  • Fermentation weight*

  • fermentation lid with airlock (optional)

Ingredients

  • 3 cups sliced fresh radishes
  • 2-3 whole garlic cloves (peeled)
  • 3.5 tsp sea salt (non-iodized)
  • 4 cups filtered water

Instructions

  • Thoroughly clean your mason jar, lid, and cutting before getting started.

  • Boil the water for five minutes, then measure out 3.5 cups of water and stir in the salt until it dissolves. Allow the brine to cool to room temperature.

  • Place the peeled garlic cloves in the mason jar.

  • Slice the radishes thinly and pack them into the fermenting jar, leaving about 1.5 inches of headspace between the top of the radishes and the lid.

  • Pour the room temperature salt brine over the radishes until they are completely covered, leaving at least one inch of headspace between the top of the brine and the lid.

  • Place a weight inside the mouth of the jar to keep your radishes under the brine. Place the lid on the jar and set up the airlock if you’re using one.

  • Allow the jar to ferment at room temperature for 3-5 days, depending on how tangy you want them to be. Keep it out of direct sunlight – I keep mine in a shady area of my kitchen or one of my kitchen cabinets. Taste your fermented radishes starting on day 3, and when it reaches a flavor that you like transfer it to the fridge. If you're using a lid with an airlock, replace it with a regular mason jar lid before storing it.

Notes

Since the time can vary based on several factors, the prep time estimate does not include the step of boiling and cooling the brine.

If you’re using a regular lid (no airlock) you will need to “burp” your jars periodically, otherwise carbon dioxide levels can build up within your jar and cause it to explode. Check the metal lid every day – if you can’t push it down simply unscrew the lit a bit and then immediately tighten it back down. Using an airlock which allows the gases to release eliminates the need to burp your jars.

Nutrition

Calories: 0kcal | Carbohydrates: 0g | Protein: 0g | Fat: 0g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 0mg | Potassium: 0mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 0g | Vitamin A: 0IU | Vitamin C: 0mg | Calcium: 0mg | Iron: 0mg

More Fermented Vegetables To Try

Kimchi – Spicy and delicious, this simple kimchi recipe is a family favorite.

Fermented Carrot Sticks With Dill – Tangy and crunchy, these easy fermented carrots make a delicious snack or side dish for meals. Enjoy them plain or dipped in creamy homemade ranch dressing or onion dip.

Beet Kvass – This recipe is infused with ginger, which adds a pleasant flavor and also supports digestion.

Fermented Jalapenos – These “pickled” jalapeños are a total crowd-pleaser. Serve them on nachos, pizza, Mexican dips, salads, and more for a delicious pop of flavor.

Sources

  1. Nikhata, Smith G. et. al. (2018)Fermentation and germination improve nutritional value of cereals and legumes through activation of endogenous enzymes
  2. Liu, Yue (2019)Long-chain vitamin K2 production inLactococcus lactisis influenced by temperature, carbon source, aeration and mode of energy metabolism
Garlicky Fermented Radishes Recipe (Pickled Radishes) (4)

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Garlicky Fermented Radishes Recipe (Pickled Radishes) (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between pickled and fermented radishes? ›

They both produce a sour flavor, but pickles are sour because they are soaked in an acidic, vinegar-based brine, while fermented foods are sour because of a chemical reaction between naturally present sugars and bacteria known as lacto-fermentation.

Is it okay to eat pickled radish everyday? ›

They are just as nutritious as fresh vegetables. That being said, it is worth noting that the pickling process does use a lot of salt and sugar. It is important to keep this in mind and, just like everything else, eat pickled radishes in moderation.

How long does fermented radish last in fridge? ›

When fermented to your liking, clean up the jar, removing the fermentation weight and airlock lid. Add how long you fermented your Fermented Radish and Carrots Slaw to your label. Seal your jar with a regular lid and transfer to the fridge where your ferment will keep for 6-12 months.

Is fermented radish good for you? ›

Eating pickled radish can be a healthy addition to your diet, as it provides a good source of vitamins and minerals. Radishes are low in calories and high in vitamin C and other antioxidants. However, the nutritional value of pickled radish can vary depending on how it is prepared and the ingredients used.

Which is healthier pickled or fermented? ›

The differences in their preservation does result in several differences in their available health benefits. The main difference in the health benefits between pickled and fermented foods lies in their probiotic properties. Fermentation generates more beneficial bacteria in foods, making them probiotic.

What is healthier pickling or fermenting? ›

An easy way to remember the difference between the two despite their overlap is that pickling involves putting food into an acidic brine to produce a sour flavor, whereas fermenting gives food a sour flavor without any added acid. Pickling is often the least healthy choice in terms of these two foods.

Why can't you eat radish and cucumber together? ›

But do you know that cucumber and radish should not be eaten together because cucumber contains ascorbate, which acts to absorb vitamin C? For this reason, cucumber and radish should not be eaten together.

Why do Asians eat pickled radish? ›

Danmuji is pickled daikon radish, and is a key ingredient in kimbap as well as a garnish to a variety of dishes, including Korean porridge. With a unique tangy flavor, pickled daikon radish adds complexity, texture, and a nutritional boost to any meal.

Why do Koreans eat pickled radish? ›

Pickled radish in vinegar or salt, pronounced Dan-mu-ji in South Korean, is a banchan commonly served as a side dish in South Korea for its coolness and crunch. It can be divided into two types depending on whether it is served with chicken or jajangmyeon.

Why don't fermented foods go bad? ›

For those who have apprehensions about food safety, Breidt said that fermented vegetables can be safer than raw vegetables, thanks to the ability of lactic acid, which forms during fermentation, to hunt down and kill any harmful bacteria that might be present.

Why does fermented food not go bad? ›

These bacteria create lactic acid, which prevents bad microorganisms from developing. Fermented vegetables are therefore very safe to eat, even after many months or even years at room temperature! And it's thanks to this lactic acid that fermented vegetables develop that tangy taste that we love so much!

Are radishes a probiotic? ›

Radishes are packed with potassium, fiber, magnesium and vitamin B. Fermenting enhances the health value of radishes by introducing beneficial lacto-bacteria, which act as a probiotic for your gut. Also, try our Sweet & Spicy Pickled Radish recipe for another easy way to enjoy your harvest.

Do radishes detox the liver? ›

These veggies contain special compounds called indole-3-carbinol and 4-methylthio-3-butenyl-isothiocyanate, which help trigger enzymes thought to help your liver get rid of harmful toxins.

Why do I crave radishes? ›

Cravings like yours can be a consequence of an iron or zinc deficiency, and the doctor can check if you are deficient in these nutrients. We have heard from other people who craved carrots, tomatoes, popcorn or orange peels to an unusual extent, just as you do with radishes.

What is the healthiest fermented food? ›

Fermented Foods for Gut Health
  • Kefir.
  • Plain Yogurt.
  • Dry Curd Cottage Cheese or Farmer's Cheese, or fermented cottage cheese.
  • Certain aged cheeses (check label for live and active cultures)
  • Fermented Vegetables.
  • Tempeh (choose gluten free)
  • Miso (refrigerated)
  • Pickles (in salt, not vinegar)
Jun 19, 2019

Is pickled and fermented the same thing? ›

Here's what you need to remember: Pickling involves soaking foods in an acidic liquid to achieve a sour flavor; when foods are fermented, the sour flavor is a result of a chemical reaction between a food's sugars and naturally present bacteria — no added acid required.

Are pickled vegetables as good as fermented? ›

Vegetables, especially cucumbers, that have been submerged in hot vinegary brine and heat processed for sterility and long shelf life, are sour from the vinegar and flavored with added pickling spices such as dill. They are not fermented and are a little less nutritious than when they were raw.

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