Kefir is a delicious and nutritious probiotic drink that supports gut health and offers a fantastic alternative to sugary sodas. Originating in the Caucasus Mountains, milk kefir was developed as a way to preserve milk. Today, kefir comes in two varieties: milk kefir and water kefir, both of which are simple to make at home. Here’s a guide to creating these refreshing, fermented beverages.

Making Milk Kefir

Milk kefir is made using kefir grains, which can be re-cultured indefinitely if kept healthy. To begin, use organic milk from cow, goat, sheep, or coconut sources—just ensure it’s not ultra-pasteurized. Start by rehydrating the kefir grains in a glass jar with a cup of milk. Cover the jar with a cloth or coffee filter secured by a rubber band and let it ferment for 24 hours at 68–85°F.

After 24 hours, strain out the grains and add them to fresh milk. Repeat this process daily until the milk thickens to the consistency of buttermilk. Once the grains are active, you can ferment 2–4 cups of milk at a time. The finished kefir can be stored in jars and refrigerated. Flavor it with fruit, drink it plain, or strain it to make kefir cheese.

Making Water Kefir

Water kefir is a fizzy, dairy-free beverage made with sugar water, juice, or coconut water. Start by reactivating the water kefir grains in a mixture of de-chlorinated water and sugar. Add minerals like sea salt or molasses if using distilled water. Allow the mixture to ferment at 68–85°F for three to five days until the grains are plump and translucent.

Once activated, strain the grains and add them to fresh sugar water. Let the culture ferment for 24–48 hours. Afterward, strain the grains and flavor your water kefir with juice, fruit, or citrus zest. Bottle the kefir in flip-top bottles for carbonation, but remember to burp the bottles if they can’t withstand pressure.

Benefits of Kefir

Both milk kefir and water kefir are rich in probiotics, which promote a healthy gut and support digestion. Water kefir, in particular, is a great substitute for sodas, offering a naturally fizzy and flavorful drink without the high sugar content of commercial beverages.

With these easy recipes, you can create your own probiotic-rich kefir at home, supporting your health and reducing reliance on store-bought drinks. Got kefir? Grow organic for life!

In this video, Tricia shows you how easy it is to make water kefir and milk kefir at home!