DIY Delight: 10 Minute Kefir

If you’re looking to boost your gut health with a delicious and refreshing drink, look no further than water kefir! This lightly fizzy beverage is packed with probiotics and is incredibly simple to make at home. Perfect for beginners, this recipe will guide you through the process step by step.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Fermentation Time: 24-48 hours
• Total Time: About 3 days (including fermentation)
• Servings: 4-6

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Ingredients

To make Water Kefir:

• 1/4 cup Water Kefir Grains
  Buy Water Kefir Grains
• 4 cups filtered water
  Buy Filtered Water
• 1/4 cup organic sugar
  Buy Organic Sugar

For Flavoring (optional):

• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen fruit (e.g., berries, lemon, mango)
  Buy Fresh Berries
  Buy Frozen Fruit
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  Buy Vanilla Extract
• 1-2 tbsp fresh herbs (e.g., mint or basil)
  Buy Fresh Herbs

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Water

1. In a medium pot, heat 4 cups of filtered water until just warm (not boiling).
2. Stir in 1/4 cup of organic sugar until fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Add Water Kefir Grains

1. Once the sugar water is cooled, pour it into a clean glass jar (at least 1-quart size).
2. Gently add 1/4 cup water kefir grains into the jar. Do not stir; they will float and settle naturally.

Step 3: Ferment

1. Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or paper towel secured with a rubber band. This allows gases to escape while keeping contaminants out.
2. Place the jar in a warm, dark area (ideally 68-85°F or 20-29°C) for 24-48 hours. The longer it ferments, the more tangy and fizzy it will become.

Step 4: Strain the Kefir

1. When fermentation is complete, use a fine mesh strainer to separate the water kefir from the grains. You can discard the grains or save them for your next batch!

Step 5: Flavor the Kefir (optional)

1. If you want to flavor your water kefir, divide it into smaller jars and add your choice of fruit, vanilla extract, or fresh herbs.
2. Seal the jars and let them ferment for an additional 12-24 hours at room temperature to allow carbonation to build.

Step 6: Enjoy!

1. Once flavored, refrigerate your water kefir to stop fermentation. Serve chilled and enjoy your refreshing probiotic drink!

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Tips for Success:

• You can reuse water kefir grains multiple times. Just keep them healthy by regularly feeding them sugar water.
• Customize your water kefir by trying different fruits or spices. The possibilities are endless!

Nutritional Benefits:

Water kefir is rich in probiotics which can help support gut health, improve digestion, and boost the immune system.

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Storage:

Store your finished water kefir in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use gently to prevent losing carbonation.

Enjoy your homemade probiotic drink that’s not only delicious but incredibly beneficial for your health!

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Note: Make sure to check the ingredient links to find the best prices and options available online.