Description
Fermented Garlic Honey is a natural, immune-boosting remedy combining fresh garlic and raw honey through fermentation. This simple recipe creates a flavorful, health-enhancing elixir that supports immunity with antibacterial and antiviral properties, perfect for cold and flu season. It’s easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and equipment, storing well for lasting benefits.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Garlic Cloves – 10 to 15 cloves
- Raw Honey – enough to fully submerge the garlic (about 1 cup)
Optional Ingredients
- Lemon Juice – 1 to 2 teaspoons (optional)
- Cinnamon Stick or Fresh Ginger Slices – 1 stick or a few slices (optional for spiced version)
- Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary) – a small sprig (optional for herbal infusion)
- Orange Zest or Slices – 1 teaspoon or a few slices (optional for citrus boost)
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic: Peel fresh garlic cloves and lightly crush or chop them to release their natural oils and allicin, which are essential for both immune benefits and the fermentation process.
- Combine Garlic and Honey: Place the prepared garlic cloves into a clean glass jar. Pour raw honey over the garlic until all cloves are fully submerged. Use a spoon to remove any air bubbles and ensure the garlic stays beneath the honey surface to prevent mold.
- Initiate Fermentation: Loosely seal the jar to allow gases to escape during fermentation. Leave the jar at room temperature (ideally between 60-75°F) for 3 to 7 days. During this time, the honey will ferment, developing richer flavors and enhanced health properties.
- Store and Wait: After fermentation, tighten the lid and transfer the jar to a cool, dark place or refrigerate it. Allow it to sit for 2 to 3 weeks or longer for more mellow, potent flavors before using.
Notes
- Use only raw, unpasteurized honey to preserve natural enzymes essential for fermentation.
- Do not overfill the jar; leave space at the top to allow gases to build up and safely escape.
- Check daily for bubbling and aroma to ensure proper fermentation without off-putting odors.
- Fermentation duration can vary based on temperature and honey type; 3 to 10 days is typical to suit your preference.
- Keep garlic cloves submerged under honey using a fermentation weight or spoon to prevent spoilage.
- If desired, add optional spices, herbs, or citrus zest to customize flavor.
- Store finished honey in the refrigerator for up to several months; avoid overheating to preserve probiotics.
- Consult a healthcare provider if allergic to garlic or honey, or if you have health conditions such as diabetes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Fermentation
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 teaspoon
- Calories: 21
- Sugar: 5.7g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5.7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg