Homesteading is more than just living on a piece of land and growing your own food; it’s a lifestyle centered around self-sufficiency and sustainability. While it might conjure images of vast farmlands and rustic living, you don’t need to live on a homestead to start homesteading. Whether you’re in a rural area, suburb, or even a city, you can incorporate homesteading principles into your daily life. Here are some of the things I’ve started making myself since embarking on my homesteading journey.
Sourdough Bread
One of the first things I tackled was baking my own sourdough bread. This age-old tradition not only fills your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but also connects you to a simpler, more mindful way of living. The process begins with cultivating a sourdough starter, which is a mixture of flour and water that captures wild yeast from the environment. The slow fermentation process breaks down gluten and makes the bread easier to digest, not to mention the rich, tangy flavor that is unmatched by store-bought bread. It is the only kind of bread we eat in our home.
Growing My Own Food
Growing your own food is one of the most rewarding aspects of homesteading. Even if you start small with a few potted herbs or a small vegetable garden, the benefits are immense. You gain access to fresh, organic produce, reduce your carbon footprint, and develop a deeper connection to the seasons and the natural world. Over time, you can expand your garden to include a variety of vegetables, fruits, and even medicinal herbs.
Homemade Soups, Sauces and Bone Broth
Making soups, sauces and bone broth from scratch is a staple in a homesteader’s kitchen. Not only are they nourishing and delicious, but they also allow you to make use of every part of the animal, reducing waste and maximizing nutrition. Bone broth, in particular, is rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support gut health, joint function, and overall wellness. The slow-cooking process extracts all the goodness from the bones, resulting in a rich, flavorful broth that can be used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces.
All the Baked Goods
From cookies and cakes to muffins and pies, baking your own goods ensures you know exactly what’s going into your treats. This way, you can avoid preservatives and artificial ingredients commonly found in store-bought baked goods. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating delicious desserts and snacks from scratch. Baking can also become a cherished family activity, where everyone gets to participate and enjoy the fruits of their labor, especially your kids!
Homemade Jam
Turning fresh fruits into homemade jam is another delightful way to embrace homesteading. The process is straightforward and allows you to preserve the flavors of summer to enjoy throughout the year. You can experiment with different fruits and combinations, adjusting the sweetness to your preference. Homemade jam makes for wonderful gifts and adds a personal touch to your breakfast table.
Pickles and Fermented Foods
Fermenting your own pickles and other vegetables is a fantastic way to preserve the harvest and enhance the nutritional value of your food. Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. The fermentation process also develops complex flavors that can’t be replicated by commercially produced pickles. Starting with simple cucumber pickles, you can gradually expand to fermenting other vegetables like carrots, radishes, and even cabbage for homemade sauerkraut.
Starting Your Homesteading Journey
You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight to start homesteading. Begin with one project that excites you, whether it’s baking sourdough bread or planting a small herb garden. As you gain confidence and experience, you can add more activities to your routine. The key is to take it one step at a time and enjoy the process of learning and growing.
Homesteading is about creating a more intentional and sustainable lifestyle. By making things yourself, you gain a greater appreciation for the resources and skills involved in producing everyday items. It’s a journey that connects you to the rhythms of nature, fosters a sense of independence, and brings joy and fulfillment to your daily life. So, why not start today? Pick one thing to make yourself and see where your homesteading journey takes you.
