Spicy Fermented Green Beans with Garlic and Dill

Spicy Fermented Green Beans with Garlic and Dill

Experience a zesty punch with these quick-fermented green beans, infused with robust garlic cloves and fragrant dill. This recipe offers a delightful crunch and a complex, tangy flavor profile that’s far more nuanced than a simple pickle. The fermentation process not only preserves the beans but also introduces beneficial probiotics, making them a healthy addition to any meal. Perfect as a side dish, a vibrant addition to salads, or even a flavorful garnish for sandwiches and appetizers. The vibrant green color and bold taste will elevate your culinary creations. This recipe is a fantastic way to explore the world of fermentation with an accessible and immensely satisfying result.

Preparation time
20 min
Cooking time
Under a minute
Total time
20 min
Servings
4

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Wash and trim the ends of the green beans. For shorter beans, you can leave them whole. For longer beans, you might want to snap them in half.
  2. 2Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Chop the fresh dill.

Brine and Fermentation

  1. 1In a clean jar (quart-sized is ideal), layer the green beans vertically, packing them in snugly. Distribute the sliced garlic, chopped dill, and red pepper flakes amongst the beans.
  2. 2In a separate bowl, dissolve the non-iodized salt in the filtered water to create the brine.
  3. 3Pour the brine over the green beans in the jar, ensuring all beans are completely submerged. You may need a fermentation weight or a small, clean food-grade bag filled with water to keep them under the brine.
  4. 4Loosely cover the jar with a lid or use an airlock system. Place the jar in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight for 3-7 days. The fermentation time will depend on your desired tanginess and ambient temperature.
  5. 5Check the beans daily. You'll start to see small bubbles forming, which indicates active fermentation. Taste a bean after 3 days. Once they reach your preferred sourness, remove any weights, tightly seal the jar, and transfer to the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information

Calories
30 kcal
Protein
2 g
Fat
0 g
Carbs
5 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories30 kcal
Protein2 g
Fat0 g
Carbs5 g

Tips

  • Ensure your green beans are fresh and crisp for the best fermentation results and crunch.
  • Keep the green beans fully submerged in the brine to prevent mold formation. An airlock lid can simplify the process.
  • These fermented green beans are excellent as a snack, side dish, or chopped into salads for a zesty kick.

By Chef Michael Ilin