Feed Your Probiotics

These flavorful dishes feature both pre- and probiotics to promote gut health.

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By: Food Network Kitchen
Related To:
Healthy

Photo By: Stephen Johnson ©2015, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Photo By: Stephen Johnson ©2015, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Photo By: Stephen Johnson ©2015, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Photo By: Stephen Johnson ©2015, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Photo By: Stephen Johnson ©2015, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Photo By: Stephen Johnson ©2015, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Photo By: Stephen Johnson ©2015, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

What's a Probiotic, Anyway?

Probiotics are friendly bacteria found in certain fermented foods (like yogurt). When you eat them, they set up shop inside your gut and help you digest food. Since these little guys are alive, that means that they need to eat too! They love prebiotics, which are small, nondigestible carbohydrates.

Prebiotics can be found in sizable amounts in certain vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Eating both pre- and probiotics together may be a good way to keep your bacteria friends happy (or, just you). Here are some fun pre-and-pro combos.

Potatoes + Kimchi

Kimchi Potato Salad

Stir a cup or so of your favorite kimchi into classic potato salad.

Berries + Kefir

Kefir-Berry Smoothie

Blend a couple of handfuls of berries with a few ice cubes, a drizzle of honey and enough kefir to make it sippable.

Asparagus + Tempeh

Tempeh and Asparagus Stir-Fry

Add asparagus pieces and chunks of tempeh to your favorite stir-fry recipe.

Bananas + Chocolate

Bittersweet-Chocolate-Dipped Bananas

Dip hunks of banana in melted bittersweet chocolate.

Onion + Yogurt

Caramelized-Onion and Yogurt Dip

Fold caramelized onions and fresh, chopped herbs into Greek yogurt. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Hulled Barley + Sauerkraut

Barley with Sauerkraut

Cook barley according to package directions (add a little butter if you want). Stir in sauerkraut and chopped parsley or dill. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

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