Fermented Shaved Carrot Salad Recipe
A vibrant and tangy fermented shaved carrot salad that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the complex flavors of fermentation and a bold spice blend. This recipe uses a quick fermentation method enhanced with sauerkraut juice and sea salt, followed by a sautéed garlic and onion oil dressing infused with coriander, paprika, and cayenne for a deliciously unique salad perfect for probiotic benefits and a flavor-packed side dish.
- Author: Sana
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 5 days 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Fermenting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fermented / Contemporary
- Diet: Low Fat
Fermentation Ingredients
- 10 medium carrots (shaved, about 800 grams)
- 2 tsp sea salt (Celtic sea salt recommended)
- 2 tbsp sauerkraut juice (from fermented cabbage)
- 2 oz filtered water
Salad Dressing and Seasonings
- 1 large red onion, sliced (or 2 medium onions)
- 7 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1/4 cup oil (olive oil, avocado oil, or grape-seed oil)
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp maple sugar or maple syrup
- 1/3 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spiciness)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Additional salt if desired
- Shave the Carrots: Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer, shave each carrot into long, paper-thin strips and place them into a large bowl.
- Prepare the Brine: In a separate container, mix sea salt and sauerkraut juice into filtered water until the salt dissolves completely.
- Mix Carrots with Brine: Pour the brine over the shaved carrots and use clean hands to mix thoroughly so the carrots are evenly coated.
- Pack into Jar for Fermentation: Firmly press the carrot mixture into a clean jar to release more juice, ensuring the carrots remain fully submerged under the liquid.
- Weight and Cover the Jar: Add a weight if needed to keep carrots submerged and cover the jar with a coffee filter secured with a rubber band to allow airflow but prevent contaminants.
- Ferment at Room Temperature: Allow the jar to ferment at roughly 65°F (18°C) for 4 to 5 days until the carrots develop a sour, pickled aroma.
- Check Fermentation Quality: Inspect for mold, off smells, or white film. Discard any affected carrot pieces or the entire batch if unpleasant odors or extensive mold are present.
- Strain the Fermented Carrots: Once fermentation is complete and safe, strain the carrots in a colander and transfer them into a mixing bowl.
- Sauté Onions: Heat 1/4 to 1/3 cup of your chosen oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown and fragrant, then remove the onions with tongs and strain the oil into a small bowl (discard or save onions for another use).
- Briefly Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet with the remaining oil, sauté the minced garlic for up to 1 minute until fragrant, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Combine Infused Oil with Carrots: Add the strained oil and sautéed garlic (with oil) mixture to the fermented carrots in the bowl.
- Add Spices and Sweetener: Stir in coriander powder, paprika or smoked paprika, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and maple sugar or syrup. Mix gently to coat the carrots evenly.
- Add Vinegar and Adjust Seasonings: Stir in apple cider vinegar for sourness and adjust salt, sweetness, or spiciness as desired with additional chili, sugar, or herbs.
- Store the Salad: Transfer the completed salad back into the original fermentation jar or smaller jars and refrigerate.
- Flavor Development: Allow the salad to rest for at least 12 hours in the fridge for the flavors to meld, and enjoy within 1-2 months.
Notes
- Use a clean jar and utensils to prevent unwanted bacteria during fermentation.
- The fermentation time can vary slightly depending on room temperature; warmer conditions speed up fermentation.
- If any mold, foul smells, or white slimy residue develop beyond minor surface film, discard the batch.
- Replace the coffee filter with a breathable cover to keep out contaminants but allow airflow.
- Use fresh and high-quality oils for best flavor and health benefits.
- The cooked onions are optional to eat but add great flavor to the oil used in the salad.
- This salad is rich in probiotics and can be a healthy addition to many diets.
Keywords: fermented carrot salad, shaved carrots, probiotic salad, fermented vegetables, healthy side dish, fermented carrot recipe, pickled carrot salad