A few pretty plates of pickles on a holiday table can be a great way to initiate family members into the cult of fermentation love. I recommend setting out a small but colorful array and I really recommend not forcing them on anyone! If they’re appealing enough, folks will taste and if they like the taste, they’ll be new converts, batting for team fermentation. Here are a few of my favorites to set out in a colorful array.
Asparagus Pickles – These simple pickles are a cheeseboard favorite in my house and they’re one great way to preserve the fleeting season. Asparagus pickles beautifully, but what I like best for display is the color. The tender stems fade to a perfect, mossy green that evokes spring rain in the forest.
Rhubarb Pickles – Tart, tangy and quintessentially spring, these probiotic pickles will surprise and delight your guests. If pie isn’t your thing, or if you’re just looking for a different way to use rhubarb, this is it!
Carrot Ginger Pickles – You can always feed any (unlikely) extras to the easter bunny!
Chioggia Beet Kvass – No need for the inhabitants of the kids’ table to feel left out, and with a glass of super tasty hot pink liquid, they won’t!
Decorative Pickled Eggs – These will wow. Results will vary based on how cracked your shells are, which ferments you use for coloring and the time you let them soak in the goodies, but there aren’t many bad choices. Kids and adults alike will love these as an edible treat or a centerpiece.
I hope you’re as excited as I am about the dawn of spring!