stomach clean and healthy

kanji

Kanji is a traditional North Indian fermented drink, particularly popular during the winter months. It's known for its tangy, slightly spicy flavor and its probiotic properties. Here's a general recipe, with some variations:

Key Ingredients:

• Carrots: Traditionally, black carrots are used, but red or orange carrots work well.
• Beetroot: Adds color and flavor.
• Mustard Seeds: Essential for fermentation and flavor. You can use yellow or black mustard seeds, or a combination.
• Salt: Often black salt is used, but regular salt is also fine.
• Red Chili Powder: For a touch of spice.
• Water: Boiled and cooled.

General Recipe:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Wash, peel, and cut the carrots and beetroot into sticks or batons.
2. Prepare the Spices:
   • Coarsely grind the mustard seeds.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a clean, preferably glass or ceramic jar, add the carrots, beetroot, ground mustard seeds, salt, and red chili powder.
   • Pour in the boiled and cooled water. Ensure the vegetables are submerged.
4. Fermentation:
   • Cover the jar loosely with a muslin cloth or a light kitchen towel, securing it with a rubber band.
   • Place the jar in a sunny spot for 2-5 days, depending on the temperature and sunlight.
   • Stir the mixture daily.
   • Taste the kanji daily, to check the sourness. When it has reached the desired level of sourness, the kanji is ready.
5. Storage:
   • Once fermented, strain the kanji and store it in the refrigerator.
   • It is best served chilled.

Important Tips:

• Cleanliness: Ensure all utensils and jars are clean to prevent unwanted bacterial growth.
• Sunlight: Adequate sunlight is crucial for fermentation.
• Taste: The fermentation time depends on your taste preferences. Adjust the time accordingly.
• Variations:
  • You can add other vegetables like turnips or watermelon rind.
  • Adjust the spice levels to your liking.
• Boiled and cooled water is important, to insure that unwanted bacteria is not introduced into the fermenting kanji.

Kanji is a refreshing and healthy drink, especially during the winter months. Enjoy!