Water kefir is a fermented beverage that is full of probiotics and beneficial bacteria. It is easy to make at home and requires only a few ingredients.
Is Water Kefir Healthy?
Yes, water kefir is considered a healthy drink because it is full of probiotics and beneficial bacteria. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that live in our gut and help maintain a healthy digestive system. Water kefir is also a good source of vitamins and minerals and is low in calories and sugar.
Additionally, water kefir is dairy-free, making it a good alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Drinking water kefir regularly may help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and promote overall health and well-being.
How to store kefir grains?
Water kefir grains, or the culture used to ferment water kefir, can be stored in a few different ways depending on how long you plan to keep them.
Short-term storage (up to 2 weeks): If you plan to take a short break from making water kefir, you can store the grains in a container filled with sugar water (¼ cup sugar per quart of water) in the refrigerator. Make sure the container is covered and sealed.
Long-term storage (more than 2 weeks): To store the grains for a longer period, you can dehydrate them. Spread the grains on a clean, non-metallic surface and allow them to dry completely. Once dry, place the grains in a clean, airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place.
Another option for long-term storage is to freeze the grains. Rinse the grains thoroughly and place them in a clean, airtight container. Cover the grains with sugar water and freeze. When you are ready to use them again, thaw the grains at room temperature and reactivate them in fresh sugar water.
It's important to note that storing water kefir grains for an extended period of time may affect their ability to ferment properly, so it's best to use them within a few months.
Ingredients
- Water kefir grains
- 4 cups filtered water
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup dried fruit (optional)
- Flavorings (such as fruit, herbs, or spices)
Instructions
- In a glass jar, dissolve the sugar in the filtered water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add the water kefir grains to the sugar-water mixture.
- Add the dried fruit (if using). This will help feed the kefir grains.
- Cover the jar with a cloth or coffee filter and secure it with a rubber band. This will allow the mixture to breathe while keeping out insects and dust.
- Place the jar in a warm, dark spot in your kitchen. The optimal temperature for fermenting water kefir is between 68-85°F.
- Allow the mixture to ferment for 24-48 hours. The longer you ferment, the more sour the taste will become.
- After 24-48 hours, strain the liquid from the grains and dried fruit. This liquid is your finished water kefir.
- Rinse the kefir grains with filtered water and place them back in the jar to start the process over again.
- Add any desired flavorings to the finished water kefir, such as fruit, herbs, or spices.
- Store the finished water kefir in the refrigerator until ready to drink.
Water kefir is a delicious and healthy beverage that is easy to make at home. Experiment with different flavors and enjoy the benefits of this probiotic-rich drink.
📖 Recipe
Homemade Water Kefir Recipe
Ingredients
- Water kefir grains
- 4 cups filtered water
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup dried fruit, optional
- Flavorings, such as fruit, herbs, or spices
Instructions
- In a glass jar, dissolve the sugar in the filtered water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.¼ cup white sugar, 4 cups filtered water
- Add the water kefir grains to the sugar water mixture.Water kefir grains
- Add the dried fruit (if using). This will help feed the kefir grains.¼ cup dried fruit
- Cover the jar with a cloth or coffee filter and secure with a rubber band. This will allow the mixture to breathe while keeping out insects and dust.
- Place the jar in a warm, dark spot in your kitchen. The optimal temperature for fermenting water kefir is between 68-85°F.
- Allow the mixture to ferment for 24-48 hours. The longer you ferment, the more sour the taste will become.
- After 24-48 hours, strain the liquid from the grains and dried fruit. This liquid is your finished water kefir.
- Rinse the kefir grains with filtered water and place them back in the jar to start the process over again.
- Add any desired flavorings to the finished water kefir, such as fruit, herbs, or spices.Flavorings
- Store the finished water kefir in the refrigerator until ready to drink.
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