Cooking with Invasive Species Workshop:

Fermenting Knotweed

with Eva van Dée

3 May 2024

Join us during our Japanese Knotweed Season and discover the magic of the knotweed plant! This exciting workshop combines the  art of lacto-fermentation with the challenge of utilising 'invasive' species, transforming a commonly found plant into a tasty and unique culinary experience. 

Tickets

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A bunch of fresh Japanese Knotweed shoots - These thick juicy heads of the young knotweed shoots are great to cook with. Slightly astringent, freshly acidic like Sorrell. Pick them at the end of March, beginning of April in The Netherlands This plant is originally from Asia and is considered an exotic invader in the west. As such it is seen as a plague that is dangerous and damaging to local ecology and infrastructure. Reynoutria japonica or Fallopia japonica or Polygonum cuspidatum are the scientific names of the species. Japanse… Willem Velthoven

With:

What you will do

Get ready to get your hands dirty! We'll guide you through the entire process of lacto-fermenting Japanese knotweed. Learn the secrets of this age-old preservation technique, exploring its science and benefits. Lacto-fermentation is the process by which bacteria break down the sugars in foods and form lactic acid. Commonly known Lacto-fermented foods include yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles.

Discover how fermentation enhances flavours, adds a delightful tang, and creates probiotic-rich foods. We'll dispel misconceptions surrounding Japanese knotweed and unlock its surprising potential as a delicious ingredient. You'll take home a jar of your very own fermented Japanese knotweed, and the knowledge and skills to continue fermenting at home. 

Eva van Dée

With a background in design engineering and seasoned experience in fine dining kitchens, Eva approaches the culinary arts from a distinct scientific perspective. Operating on this intersection uniquely set her up to develop a specific interest in food fermentation. During her residency at Mediamatic, she aims to expand her interconnectedness with collaborators ranging from the wildest microbes to all humans that share her curiosity of the microcosmos. She enjoys inspiring others with her fascination for and knowledge of fermentation. 

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Fermentation try-out with freshly picked Japanese Knotweed - Filippo Iannone

Japanese Knotweed Season 2024

Every spring, Mediamatic organises a season around Japanese knotweed. Knotweed is a fast-growing plant known in Europe for being considered invasive. What many do not know, however, is that this plant species has a host of positive properties. During this season we will explore how to live in harmony with this controversial plant.

Tickets

Full price €35 | *Discount price €25

*We give a discount to students, artists and Stadspas holders. If this applies to you we might ask to see your kvk nr/portfolio or student card for this option.

Information

3rd of May

Time: 12:00-14:00

Attendance is limited to 14 people. We maintain a minimum of 8 participants.

Please note that, unless everyone speaks Dutch, this workshop will be held in English.

For questions please e-mail workshop@mediamatic.nl.

Read our ticket terms and conditions here.