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? ›

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.

Is fermented radish good for you? ›

Fermented Radishes are a tasty way to get your probiotics! Enjoy them in a salad, on a crudités plate, or solo as a snack. They have a delightful peppery pickle-like flavor. Radishes are packed with nutritional benefits as well.

How long does pickled radish last? ›

If you're using a kilner jar, simply fill to the surface and fasten the lid tightly to create an airtight seal. Place your jar in the fridge and wait 2 days before eating. The radish should comfortably last 5-6 months like this as long as they're looked after and a clean utensil is used to remove them.

Is pickled radish a probiotic? ›

Plus, pickled daikon radish is also a great source of gut-boosting probiotics. The pickling process involves a period of fermentation, which generates healthy microorganisms that, when consumed, help populate your body and keep it running smoothly.

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.

Is it healthy to eat pickled radish? ›

Low in calories, it also has an impressive amount of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The root is rich in Vitamin C, as well as a great source of calcium, magnesium and potassium.

What should not be eaten with radishes? ›

  1. Dec 6, 2023, 08:52 PM IST. 5 Foods You Must Never Pair With Radish. ...
  2. Radish and Milk. ...
  3. Radish and Cucumber. ...
  4. Radish and Oranges. ...
  5. Radish and Bitter Gourd. ...
  6. Radish and Tea.
Dec 6, 2023

Do radishes detox the liver? ›

Detoxify your blood

Radishes can be very good for the liver and stomach as they act as a powerful detoxifier.

Why should radishes not be eaten at night? ›

Can I eat radish at night? Eating radish at night is generally considered safe and healthy. It is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamin C, and other nutrients. However, some people may experience digestive discomfort if they eat too much of it.

Is it okay not to refrigerate pickled radishes? ›

Although pickles and brine may not be the ideal environment for the organisms that can cause food borne illness, they can still grow and thrive if you just leave the jar out on the counter. By refrigerating them you are further inhibiting growth, making it safer to eat.

How can you tell if a radish has gone bad? ›

Radishes that are approximately 1 inch in diameter will be more tender and crisp. Avoid radishes that are soft, dull-colored, and have white or brown scars or black spots; if the radish tops are yellow, limp, or slimy, the radishes are old or have not been refrigerated properly. Remove radish greens before storing.

Why is some pickled radish yellow? ›

These quick Korean pickles are flavored with rice vinegar, garlic, turmeric, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. The turmeric is the key ingredient for getting that bright yellow color.

Why do Koreans eat so much radish? ›

In South Korea, The vinegar-marinated radish is served when eating Korean-fried chicken. Cube-shaped, crunchy vinegar- marinated radish is a cool, crisp substitute for celery sticks. Diced radishes are soaked in boiling water, vinegar, salt, and sugar for a day or so.

What is the difference between fermented and pickled 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 pickled radish good for high blood pressure? ›

This root vegetable is also a rich source of nitrates and saponins. While nitrates help lower blood pressure and enhance athletic performance, saponins can boost immune system and heart health.

Is pickling and fermenting the same thing? ›

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.

Do fermented pickles taste the same as vinegar pickles? ›

Taste: Fermented pickles tend to have a more complex, rounded sourness compared to the sharper tanginess of vinegar pickles.

What's the difference between fermented and pickled onions? ›

Are pickled onions the same as fermented? In a word, no. Pickling can often be used (or confused) with fermented, but pickled foods are made quickly in vinegar, a sweetener, salt and spices vs fermented foods sit for some time and ferment, thus forming beneficial bacteria that is said to be good for the gut.

What is the purpose of pickled radish? ›

Korean pickled radish, with its perfect balance of sweetness, sourness, and a hint of spice, can be a great flavor boosting to any dish. You can add it as a refreshing and crunchy topping to your salad, slice it to garnish your ramen noodles, or simply eat it as a low-calorie healthy side dish.

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