
All about fermenting
Fermenting fruit is one of the easiest ways to add probiotics to your diet, and pears are one of the best fruits to start with. When paired with apple, ginger, dried fruit, warming spices, and a hint of citrus zest, this recipe makes a probiotic-rich treat that tastes like fall in a jar.
Unlike canning or dehydrating, fermentation doesn’t just preserve food, it enhances it. The process encourages beneficial bacteria to flourish, lowering the sugar content, adding a gentle fizz, and creating gut-supportive compounds. This recipe is versatile, beginner-friendly, and ready in just a few days.
Why Make Fermented Pears?
- Gut Health: Live probiotics from fermentation support digestion and immunity.
- Flavor: The mix of pear, apple, ginger, raisins, and warm spices creates a tangy, cozy, slightly fizzy flavor that’s both unique and comforting.
- Seasonal Preservation: Pears ripen quickly, and fermenting them extends their life while reducing waste.
- Simplicity: You don’t need fancy tools: just a jar, some fruit, and filtered water (a weight and lid make it easier!).

Health Benefits of Fermented Pears
- Rich in probiotics that support gut balance
- Naturally lower in sugar due to fermentation
- Ginger and spices add anti-inflammatory benefits
- Citrus zest adds antioxidants and a bright flavor
How to Use Fermented Pears
- Serve over yogurt, chia pudding, or oatmeal
- Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles
- Mix into smoothies for a probiotic boost
- Pair with cheese or roasted meats for a sweet-tart side
- Eat straight from the jar for a fizzy snack

Fermenting Supplies
- Redmond Real Salt (code LAURA15)– salt is a huge player when it comes to fermenting. This is what was used to preserve food for hundreds of years!
- Mason jar– a quart size mason jar is such an easy, inexpensive vessel for fermenting.
- Fermenting weight– this is to keep all of the food under the liquid.
- Fermenting lid– the great thing about this type of lid is that it is self-burping. It allows air to escape without letting anything in.
Fermented pears with apple, ginger, raisins, spices, and citrus are one of the most delicious ways to bring probiotics into your daily meals. They’re quick to make, versatile, and naturally preserve the flavors of fall.
Whether you enjoy them spooned over breakfast, served with savory dishes, or eaten straight from the jar, fermented pears are a cozy, nourishing addition to your real-food kitchen.
If you try this recipe, tag me on Instagram @Lauralivesthegoodlife — I’d love to see your jars bubbling away!
Fermented Pears with Apple, Ginger, and Spices
Equipment
- 1 quart size Mason jar
Ingredients
- 3 cups pears, diced
- 1 apple, chop
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup raisins, chopped dates or dried figs
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp clove or allspice (optional)
- 1 lemon or orange, zested
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 Tbsp why (from yogurt, kefir or clabber) OR add extra 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- filtered water to cover
Instructions
- Add everything to a bowl and stir well. Scoop into a clean mason jar. Cover with a fermenting weight and lid. Let it sit at room temperature for 2-3, tasting daily. It is done when it starts to get bubbly and tangy. Fruit ferments quickly so tasting is necessary. Keep refrigerated once ready.












