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Fermented Foods for a Happy Gut

fermented foods gut health kimchi microbiome saurkraut Jul 20, 2026
 

Three Fermented Foods I Always Keep in My Fridge (And the Easiest Ways to Eat Them)

If you're trying to eat healthier, fermented foods are one of the easiest additions you can make to your meals. They're packed with flavor, require zero prep, and can be added to almost anything.

One of my favorite brands is Cleveland Kitchen because their products are fresh, crisp, and make it incredibly easy to enjoy fermented vegetables throughout the week.

Here are my three staples and how I serve them.

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is simply fermented cabbage, and it's one of the easiest ways to add a tangy crunch to your meals.

Try it on:

  • Scrambled or fried eggs

  • Avocado toast

  • Salads

  • Burgers or lettuce wraps

  • Grain bowls

  • Sausages or grilled chicken

  • Cottage cheese for a protein-packed snack

Kimchi

Kimchi is a Korean fermented vegetable dish that brings a bold, spicy flavor to meals. It's a great way to add excitement to simple foods.

Serve it with:

  • Eggs

  • Rice bowls

  • Ground beef or turkey

  • Tacos

  • Soups

  • Grilled chicken

  • Avocado toast

A spoonful can completely transform a meal.

Pickled Beets

Beets add natural sweetness, vibrant color, and earthy flavor to your plate.

My favorite ways to enjoy them:

  • Over mixed greens

  • With cottage cheese

  • Paired with goat cheese and walnuts

  • Alongside grilled salmon or chicken

  • Chopped into grain bowls

  • As a quick side dish

Start Small

If you're new to fermented foods, you don't need a huge serving. Start with one or two tablespoons alongside a meal and gradually increase as your body adjusts. Everyone's digestive system is different, so pay attention to how you feel.

The goal isn't perfection—it's consistency. Keeping a few fermented foods in your refrigerator makes it easy to add variety, flavor, and nutrient-rich vegetables to your meals without extra work.

Sometimes the healthiest habits are also the simplest.

What's always stocked in your fridge—sauerkraut, kimchi, beets, or something else? I'd love to hear your favorites!

Want more guidance on your gut journey? Schedule an e-visit with one of our Board Certified Primary Care Providers to get a tailored Modera Method that works for YOU! 

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