We travel to the West Coast to talk fermented foods with wildbrine, a California-based brand that produces all types of fermented foods — from sauerkraut to salsas to kimchi — using local, fresh ingredients.

We hear a lot about gut health these days, and the probiotics found in fermented foods can help. Beyond nutrition, they’re delicious. In fact, you probably are eating quite a few fermented foods without even knowing it, from yogurt to beer. But what are they exactly, how are they made and why do we eat them? We answer all of these questions.

Interested in trying kombucha? We’ve got a simple starter recipe as well as five completely different, yet completely fabulous fermented recipes from two-time contestant on the Food Network’s The Next Iron Chef and judge for Guy’s Grocery Games, chef Duskie Estes. Finally, looking to add more fermented foods to your pantry? We’ve gathered a list of a few of our favorites.