Kisel: Eastern European Fermented Oat Porridge

Easy gut-friendly goodness from fermented oats

Kisiel, also known as kisel or kissel, is a traditional fermented oat porridge with roots in Eastern Europe, particularly in countries like Russia, Poland, and the Baltic states. The word itself is derived from a Slavic term meaning "sour," reflecting the tangy flavor that develops during the fermentation process. It has long been a staple food, offering nourishment and warmth during the colder months. This humble dish reflects the resourcefulness of traditional cooking, utilizing natural fermentation processes to transform simple ingredients like oats and water into a nutritious and easily digestible meal.