Water Kefir

Submitted by Rita1652

"Don't drink soda! Try this! A fizzy drink that is rich in micro-nutrients, enzymes and beneficial bacteria, water kefir numbers among the top ten dairy-free probiotics. Kefir grains are small, translucent, gelatinous structures and are comprised of assorted bacteria including lactobacillus hilgardii which gives them their characteristic crystal-like appearance. When properly cared for and regularly cultured, they produce a wonderful delicious probiotic-rich beverage and will continue to grow and reproduce indefinitely. Water kefir can be found http://www.culturesforhealth.com/starter-cultures/kefir-cultures.html"

 

• Ready In: 48hrs 10mins
• Ingredients: 6
• Serves: 6

ingredients

• 78.78 ml water, kefir grains
• 44.37 ml organic raisins, Figs (Just be sure it`s Unsulphured Dried Fruit)
• 118.29 ml organic sugar
• 1 organic lemon
• 1 thin slice fresh ginger, Peeled
• 946.0-1419.0 ml chlorine-free water

directions

1. Dissolve sugar into water. Do not use honey in place of sugar. Honey has antimicrobial properties and will damage your water kefir grains or delay their proliferation.
2. Add water kefir grains, raisins, half a lemon and slice of ginger to the mixture of sugar water in a 1/2 gallon mason jar.
3. Allow your water kefir to brew in a lidded mason jar at room temperature for 24 – 72 hours depending on the strength you prefer and the temperature of your home. The warmer your home is, the faster water kefir will brew.
4. Strain the water kefir grains, raisins, lemon and ginger from the water kefir and bottle the liquid into smaller containers using a Nonmetal Strainer.
5. At this point you can flavor them. I`ve added acia brewed tea that was cooled. Vanilla bean, berries,.
6. Allow the smaller bottles to sit out for another 24 – 48 hours to continue fermentation and produce natural carbonation.
7. Serve cold over ice and enjoy!
8. Water kefir is very versatile. This basic recipe can be altered slightly to introduce different beneficial herbs or flavors to produce a wide array of probiotic beverages. Try replacing the ginger with fresh mint, anise or cardamom or replace raisins with dried strawberries are quite good too. I’ve even used dried cherries dried cranberries.
9. Just don`t add dark straining ingredients to the first brewing because the grains will pick up the color.