Basic Water Kefir
Basic Water Kefir
Ingredients
2 tablespoons water kefir grains (ask around or buy online)
1 litre filtered water
3-4 tablespoons sugar (organic cane sugar or similar, not honey)
A slice of lemon or a dried fruit like fig or raisin for added minerals (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Water: Dissolve the sugar in a bit of warm water, then add it to the remaining water in a large glass jar. Ensure the water is at room temperature.
Add the Grains: Add the water kefir grains to the sugar water. Place a lid or cloth on top (allowing some air flow) and leave it to ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours (this can take up to a week in colder climates like Tasmania 😉). Avoid direct sunlight!
Strain and Bottle: After the initial ferment, have a taste and if it’s nice and tangy and not too sweet strain the grains out using a non-metal strainer. Your kefir water is now ready for a second ferment if you’d like to add flavour.
Second Ferment Flavouring Options
Lemon & Ginger
Add a slice or two of fresh lemon (organic if possible) and a small piece of ginger (about 1 inch, sliced) to the strained water kefir.
Raspberry
Add a small handful of fresh or frozen raspberries (about 1/4 cup) to the strained kefir water.
Instructions for Second Ferment
Add your chosen flavouring ingredients to a bottle or jar with a secure lid.
Pour the strained kefir water over the flavourings and close the lid tightly.
Leave at room temperature for 24-48 hours. Open carefully, as pressure may build up.
Strain out the fruit/ginger, and your water kefir is ready to drink! Refrigerate to slow fermentation.
Enjoy your refreshing, lightly fizzy water kefir! 💦
