How to Make Fermented Strawberries (A Gut-Loving Summer Treat)

When strawberry season hits, I’m always looking for ways to stretch the harvest and this recipe might be one of my favorite discoveries yet. Fermented strawberries are sweet, tangy, and loaded with gut-loving probiotics. They feel like a treat but nourish like medicine. And the best part? They’re easy to make, naturally preserved, and incredibly versatile.

As someone who’s spent years healing my gut and helping others do the same, I’m always looking for ways to infuse my everyday life with wellness without making it complicated. Fermentation is one of those beautiful, ancient methods that makes it possible.

When you’ve got an active ginger bug on your counter, fermented strawberries are one of the easiest (and tastiest!) ways to use it. This recipe is super simple—just strawberries, a bit of sugar, and a spoonful of your homemade probiotic starter. No fancy tools needed. And the flavor? Sweet, tangy, and lightly effervescent.

Why Ferment Strawberries?

Fermentation not only enhances the flavor of fruit but also transforms it into a live food rich in beneficial bacteria. These microbes support your gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and even your mood.

Strawberries on their own are already rich in antioxidants and vitamin C but fermenting them boosts their benefits and makes them easier to digest. It’s a perfect example of food as medicine and it’s delicious.

Ingredients & Tools:

• 1 pint jar

• 2 cups fresh, organic strawberries (hulled and halved or sliced if large)

• 2 tablespoons ginger bug (active and bubbly)

• 1 tablespoon cane sugar (or raw sugar)

• 2 tablespoons filtered water

• Optional: a few leaves of mint or thin lemon peel for flavor

  
  
  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Prep the Strawberries: Rinse and hull your strawberries. Slice in half if large.

• Layer in the Jar: Add strawberries to your clean pint jar. If using mint or lemon peel, layer it in with the fruit.

• Feed the Culture: In a small cup, mix the ginger bug, sugar, and water to “wake it up.” Pour this mixture over the strawberries.

• Cover: Loosely cap with a lid or use a breathable cover (like cheesecloth with a rubber band).

• Ferment: Let sit on the counter at room temp for 24–48 hours. You should see bubbles form and smell a slightly yeasty, fruity scent.

• Refrigerate: Once you like the flavor, tangy and just a little fizzy, move the jar to the fridge. It will continue to slowly ferment and keep for about a week.

How to Use Fermented Strawberries:

• Add to yogurt or coconut milk with granola

• Blend into smoothies or mocktails

• Spoon over pancakes, chia pudding, or oatmeal

• Snack on them straight from the jar (my favorite!)

• Use the brine in salad dressings or fizzy drinks

  
  

Fermenting strawberries is a simple way to bring more probiotic power into your kitchen. It’s also a reminder that healing your gut doesn’t have to be complicated—it can start with something as sweet and simple as a strawberry.

If you're looking for more ways to support your gut-brain connection, I share my favorite supplement stack (like my beloved Happy Juice) Here. You can always find more seasonal wellness tips over on Instagram @anewlifefarm.