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Real Pickles

Northeast Grown, 100% organic, fermented & raw pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi, kvass, and hot sauce

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Home / Fermentation / Fermentation Process

Fermentation Process

We use lactic acid fermentation to make our Real Pickles products (also known as lacto-fermentation or natural fermentation). It is the original pickling method and has been an essential part of healthy human diets throughout the world for thousands of years. In Asia, consumption of fermented pickles dates back at least to the 3rd Century B.C.E., when the Great Wall of China was under construction. In Europe, sauerkraut is known to have been an important food among the ancient Romans.

Today, Real Pickles is one of a growing number of businesses in the United States producing raw (unpasteurized) and fermented pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other vegetables. This traditional pickling process went out of favor with the advent of industrial food production. Modern pickling methods, including use of vinegar (usually in place of fermentation) and pasteurization, produce a uniform, shelf stable product suitable to the needs of the large food corporations. Unfortunately, modern pickles do not offer the authentic flavor or the probiotic and health-promoting qualities of traditional pickles.

How it works

Many studies show that including raw fermented foods in our diet can improve health from gut to brain.
Read more about Health Benefits

Lactic acid fermentation relies on beneficial cultures – similar to those used to make yogurt or sourdough bread – to break down natural sugars in the vegetables and produce a variety of healthful substances, primarily lactic acid.

The process begins with fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables, naturally bearing lactic acid cultures on their surfaces (making starter cultures or inoculants unnecessary). The produce is washed, chopped or sliced as needed, and mixed with sea salt. The salt acts to draw out juices, preserve the vegetables while the fermentation gets started, and regulate the fermentation process itself. The mixture is packed into air-tight fermentation vessels (jars, crocks, or barrels) and placed in a warm spot (65-80 deg F).

Cucumbers undergo a relatively short fermentation, while cabbages may take several months to yield finished sauerkraut. During this time, cultures transform the fresh vegetables into pickles by converting sugars to lactic acid, acetic acid, carbon dioxide, and other beneficial substances. It is the lactic acid that is primarily responsible for preserving the vegetables, as well as creating the wonderful flavor and aroma of traditional pickles.

Length of fermentation depends on many factors, including temperature, moisture of the raw vegetable, amount of salt used, and thickness of the cut.  We taste every batch during fermentation to determine when it tastes just right!  Once finished, the ferments are stored under refrigeration to slow the fermentation, where they will remain preserved for two years or more.

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Hey NYC! Looking for a delicious, nutrient rich, p Hey NYC! Looking for a delicious, nutrient rich, plant-based meal, where the restaurant’s motto is “Let Food Be The Medicine”? Look no further! Le Botaniste has 4 locations throughout the city and they are serving up scrumptious, colorful dishes with Real Pickles ferments! Check them out!

Posted @withregram • @le_botaniste 6 days before spring ☀️

Some colors to sublimate your day 🌈
Our Botanical salad is waiting for you 🥗

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Looking for a simple way to add vibrant color and Looking for a simple way to add vibrant color and more nutrient-rich foods to your diet? Get inspired by the delicious, organic, and gut-healthy creations at @nourishnoho and show us what you make! Of course, if you are anywhere near Nourish Wellness Cafe in Northampton you must check them out!
#fermentedfoods #ferment

Posted @withregram • @nourishnoho Wishing you a Super Saturday! 🥕 

I added our lemon-beet hummus, butternut mash, and pumpkin seeds to this super bowl. It’s my favorite combination and I’d be lying if I didn’t say, I eat this bowl at least 6 days a week!! If you’re looking for something new to try, I highly recommend!
There is still time to register for the NOFA/VT Wi There is still time to register for the NOFA/VT Winter Conference! "Our Annual Winter Conference is all about commencting, inspiring, networking, and deepening the roots that sustain the movement for a thriving agriCULTURE."

Posted @withregram • @nofavermont We're pleased to present NOFA-VT's 41st Annual Winter Conference, February 18 & 19, 2023.

Each year, the NOFA-VT Winter Conference provides a valuable opportunity for farmers, homesteaders, gardeners, earth tenders, land managers, educators, students, policy-makers, and activists to participate in our vibrant community event by sharing ideas, resources, and skills.

The hybrid conference will take place at the Davis Center at the University of Vermont in Burlington with the option to join the keynote and many conference workshops online.

Check out the conference offerings and register at the link in our bio!
Fermented foods make delicious, nutrient-rich snac Fermented foods make delicious, nutrient-rich snacks and bring a little vibrant color to these cold January days! Make a quick and easy treat by adding a healthy serving of your favorite Real Pickles ferment to avocado and your favorite toasted bread.
Garnish with sprouts, radish and sesame seeds like these beauties, or finish as you wish! #realpickles #packedwithamission #lactofermentation #avocadotoast #superbowlsnacks #organic #raw #pickles #kraut #recipeideas 

Photo by @clarebarboza
Bread by @riseabove_413
On the shortest and darkest day of the year, may y On the shortest and darkest day of the year, may you be cozy and warm with ferments aplenty, and may the light of the Winter Solstice shine on you! 

#wintersolstice #RealPickles #ferments #organic #kraut #sauerkraut #northeastgrown #fermentedandraw
Still looking for that perfect gift? How about som Still looking for that perfect gift?
How about something that supports regional organic farms, creates meaningful jobs in our community, and is super delicious?! Consider a few jars of Real Pickles ferments or a super cozy organic cotton tee! Check out the store locator on our website to find the Northeast store closest to you, or order a 4 jar sampler, some colorful merch, or a Real Pickles gift certificate on our webstore!
Link in profile. 

#RealPickles #PackedWithAMission
#FermentedAndRaw #organic #giftgiving #shoplocal #supportregionalfarms

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311 Wells St
Greenfield, MA 01301
(413) 774-2600
info@realpickles.com

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