Fermentation Workshops in Monmouthshire

Learn how to ferment with confidence at one of our hands-on fermentation workshops in Monmouthshire, just 20 miles from Bristol and 25 miles from Cardiff. The Crafty Pickle Co. workshops are relaxed, practical and tasty, helping you understand live fermented foods while making your own sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha or seasonal ferments.

Whether you are completely new to fermentation or you have already got a few jars bubbling at home, our in-person workshops are designed to help you ask questions, get stuck in and feel more confident about fermenting safely at home.

 

Who Are Our Workshops For?

Our fermentation workshops are for curious beginners, food lovers, home cooks and anyone who wants to understand live fermented foods better. You do not need to arrive as an expert. The point is to make fermentation feel less intimidating and much more doable.

They are also a good fit if you have bought fermented foods before and want to understand how they are made, or if you are looking for a hands-on food experience to enjoy on your own, with a friend or as a gift.

 

What Will You Learn?

In our workshops, you will learn the practical basics behind fermentation, including how ingredients, salt, time, temperature and storage affect the finished ferment.

Depending on the workshop you choose, you may learn how to make sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha or other seasonal ferments. Each individual workshop page should explain exactly what is covered, what is included and what you will take home.

 

Where Do the Workshops Take Place?

Our in-person fermentation workshops take place in Monmouthshire, within 25 miles of both Cardiff and Bristol. Venue details, dates, times and booking information are shown on each individual workshop page.

If you are travelling to a workshop, please check the specific event page before booking so you know exactly where to go and what to expect.

 

Upcoming In-Person Workshops

Ready to get your hands dirty? Browse our upcoming in-person fermentation workshops and choose the session that suits you best.

View upcoming workshops


Private Workshops, Groups and Events

We may be able to run private fermentation workshops for groups, events, retreats, community projects or food businesses. If you have something in mind, get in touch with a few details and we can let you know what may be possible.

Ask about a private workshop

The Crafty Pickle Co. runs hands-on fermentation workshops in Monmouthshire, within reach of Cardiff and Bristol. Workshop topics include:

  • Sauerkraut
  • Kimchi
  • Kombucha
  • Miso & Koji
  • Fermented, seasonal fizzy drinks and more. 

Sessions are designed for beginners, food lovers and home cooks who want to learn practical fermentation skills in person.

Choose your Fermentation Workshop

Each workshop focuses on a different type of ferment or experience level. Explore the fermentation workshops we offer below and choose the one that sounds most like what you want to learn.

Beyond kraut & kimchi workshop

This workshop is for those who've dipped their toe into fermentation or who currently make sauerkraut or kimchi but want to explore other types of fermentation. We'll look at fermented sodas, tempeh, brining, lacto-fermented condiments and more. A light lunch is included with this workshop. Upcoming dates are below:

Sauerkraut & kimchi workshops

Get hands-on with kimchi and sauerkraut and learn how flavour, salt, vegetables and fermentation time work together.

At our workshop you'll learn everything you need to know and go home with a jar of kraut and kimchi made by your own fair hands. Upcoming dates are below:

Kombucha workshops

Learn everything you need to make your own delicious, tangy fermented tea AKA kombucha. Go home with your very own SCOBY ready to brew and bottle kombucha at home using our foolproof instructions. Upcoming dates are below:

Introduction to miso & koji workshops

In this hands-on workshop you'll learn how to make your own miso to take home with you, the ins and outs of koji (the mould used to make miso) and get to taste some fab ferments along the way! Upcoming dates are below:

Forage & Ferment Workshop

We've teamed up with expert forager Chloe from Gourmet Gatherings to offer you a unique afternoon of foraging ingredients and learning how to preserve them, by fermenting your own wild kimchi and a living, fizzy drink! Upcoming dates are below:

Why learn to ferment with us?

We've been teaching fermentation workshops since 2019

Both co-founders have an MSc in Human Nutrition

We run a busy commerical kitchen crafting live ferments

We've taught hundreds of people to ferment

We've been fermenting at home for more than a decade

Bespoke courses & events

We also run private courses, talks and workshops on topics relating to nutrition, gut health and different elements of fermentation. We love to share practical information on how we can holistically improve our health and the role fermented foods might play in this. As a team with a Registered Nutritionist on it we love talking all things nutrition.

So if you have a specific topic you'd like us to create a workshop or talk around we're very happy to help!​

Fermentation Workshops FAQ

Are your workshops suitable as gifts?

Fermentation workshops can make a great gift for food lovers, curious cooks and anyone who enjoys learning something practical. Learn more about our gift vouchers.

Do I need any fermentation experience?

No. Unless a specific workshop says otherwise, our in-person fermentation workshops are suitable for beginners and people who want to build confidence.

What should I bring to your fermentation workshop?

Although we provide almost everything needed, please check the individual workshop page before booking. Each page will explain what is provided and whether you need to bring anything with you. 

Will I take anything home?

Most hands-on fermentation workshops include something you make during the session, but please check the individual workshop page for exactly what is included.

What is fermentation?

Fermentation is an ancient method of food preservation that helps to extend the life of perishable foods like milk, fruit, vegetables, meat and also make certain foods edible and delicious. Put simply, food fermentation is the transformative action of microbes breaking down compounds in food.

The range of fermented foods across the globe is ridiculous, with some estimates reckoning upwards of 5000 different ferments. At the heart of every distinct type is the microcosm of bacteria, yeast, moulds and fungi that transform raw ingredients into tongue-tickling foods with vastly different textures and tastes.

Do you offer private fermentation workshops?

If you are interested in a private, group or event workshop, contact us with a few details about what you have in mind and we can let you know what may be possible.

Book an In-Person Fermentation Workshop

Choose your workshop type, check the date and details, and book the session that suits you best.