If you’ve only ever used chives fresh from the garden, you’re in for a surprise!
Fermented chives take on a completely new personality. Tangy and almost reminiscent of pickled onions but more delicate. They become what I like to call “probiotic sprinkles,” a simple way to add a punch of flavor to everyday meals.
This method uses a combination of dry salting (to draw out moisture) and a light brine to fully submerge the chives. It’s especially helpful for tender herbs like this and produces a balanced, flavorful ferment without overpowering their natural taste.
If you grow chives, this is one of the easiest ways to preserve that harvest and enjoy it long after the growing season ends.
See my instagram reel tutorial here!
How to make them
(makes 1 pint jar)
- Chop your fresh chives and measure out 4 cups.
- Add 2 tsp of salt and give them a mix.
- Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out the moisture.
- Give them a few squeezes to release even more liquid.
- Pack the chives into a pint jar (should fill approximately 3/4 of the jar).
- Top off the jar with filtered water (1- 1 1/2 cups).
- Add your weight to keep everything submerged.
- Seal with an airlock and ring (or a regular lid and release gases daily).
- Let the jar sit at room temperature for 5-7 days.
- Taste as you go, and once it’s fermented to your liking, move it to the fridge to slow the fermentation process.
Storage & How to Use
Once the chives have reached your preferred level of tang, seal the jar with a regular lid and transfer it to the refrigerator. They will keep for several months and continue to develop flavor slowly over time.
For the most probiotic benefit and freshest flavor, add fermented chives to dishes after cooking rather than heating them extensively.
Ways to Use Fermented Chives
- Sprinkle over eggs, tacos, or roasted vegetables
- Stir into salad dressings or marinades
- Mix into aioli, sour cream, or yogurt sauces
- Add to wraps, sandwiches, or grain bowls
They’re a small addition that makes a big difference! Bright, flavorful, and a simple way to elevate everyday meals from your own kitchen.
I hope you give them a try!
