I’ve been a little obsessed lately with fermenting kefir, so I’m happy to share how to make kefir with my readers. Kefir is that probiotic milk drink that you can find in most health stores. It’s slightly tangy, a little fizzy, and really wonderful. And it’s super easy to make your own at home.
First off, kefir is the drink that’s made from kefir grains. Kefir grains are made up of yeasts and bacteria and look like, well, grains. I purchased my kefir grains from Etsy. It’s simple enough to search for kefir and find many, many different sources. I received a little under a tablespoon of grains, which have multiplied over the last few months. I’ve experimented with culturing both milk and cream. Fermented cream makes an exceptional substitute for sour cream. I’ve also learned through trial and error, that culturing kefir for a few days and then straining it makes a great cream cheese substitute.
Kefir grains
My formula for successful kefir is one tablespoon or so of kefir grains covered by whole or 2% milk in a pint jar. I leave this on the counter top for roughly 24 hours and then strain. I’ve been drinking the kefir itself with a tablespoon of Barlean’s Essential Woman Chocolate Mint Swirl. First thing in the morning, it’s quite a pick me up. Kefir makes a great probiotic and I’ll say that it’s been great for my digestive system.
A couple of things I’ve learned that are worth noting. Don’t use metal utensils when you are handling your kefir grains. I’ve read varying reasons why, but the general consensus is that the kefir grains can react to metal. That said, it’s fine to use a regular canning jar lid and ring when you are culturing your kefir.
I’ve also learned that kefir is very forgiving. I recently got very busy and ended up with my kefir grains hanging out in milk in the fridge for about two weeks. While it’s probably not the best thing to do, the grains seem to be just fine. I strained them out, put them in fresh milk, and set them out at room temperature to culture.
Kefir grains in jar
I’m sure I’ll be posting more tips about how to make use of your kefir soon, so keep checking back for more!
Kefir Grains in Jar
