Is water kefir suitable for vegans?

Yes, it is. The SCBOBY consists of yeasts and bacteria and is naturally vegan. Different from milk kefir, water kefir is made just from SCOBY, water, sugar and optionally citrus and dried fruits, making it suitable for a vegan diet.

Can I use tap water for making water kefir?

This depends on the water quality of your region. Usually, using tap water is preferred, as it is naturally rich in minerals, which the kefir needs to thrive. Filtered or distilled water can even impede growth. Still, if your tap water is high in chloride or contaminated, it shouldn't be used, or sufficiently treated beforehand.

How long does it take to ferment water kefir?

This depends on factors such as amount of sugar, amount of kefir grains, health of the kefir, conditions and temperature. Usually, for a healthy batch of kefir, it takes 24-48 hours.

How can I make my water kefir less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can adjust the fermentation time. Allowing it to ferment for a longer period will consume more sugar, resulting in a less sweet taste. The kefir will have a stronger taste like this. You can also try reducing the amount of sugar used in the initial fermentation.

What are common side effects when consuming water kefir?

While kefir is generally safe to consume if prepared correctly. Some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort initially due to the introduction of probiotics. It is recommended to start with small amounts and gradually increase consumption to allow your body to adjust.

How to store water kefir grains?

Give your kefir grains a rinse with cold water. Add them to a clean jar or container, and top them with sugar water, a dried fruit and slice of lemon. Close the jar with a breathable lid and keep it kefir in the fridge. The cold temperature slows the fermentation process. Make sure to give the kefir new sugar water after 3-4 weeks.

The Ultimate Guide to Water Kefir

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Let’s learn how to make one of the greatest fermented beverages ever: Water kefir! The recipe is super simple and it’s so much fun.

Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup water kefir grains

8 cups water

1/2 sugar

2 tbsp dried fruit

3 slices lemon or lime

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Dissolve 1/2 cup of sugar in 8 cups of lukewarm water in a glass jar. Allow the water to cool to room temperature.

Once the sugar is dissolved, add the kefir grains to the jar.

Cover the jar with a breathable cover and secure it with a rubber band.

Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, for 24-48 hours. The fermentation time may vary depending on temperature and desired taste.

After fermentation, strain the liquid using a plastic sieve or strainer, separating the water kefir grains from the liquid. Give the kefir grains a rinse with cold water. Clean the jar, and you are ready to repeat the process.

You can do a secondary fermentation with fruits, juice, herbs, or other botanicals if you like. Add the ingredients to a jar or bottle together with the kefir you made before. Allow it to ferment for additional 24-48 hours.

Notes

Scale this recipe to the amount of kefir grains you have and the size of your fermentation jar.

Other things you need for making kefir:
Glass jar or container
Breathable cover (cheesecloth or coffee filter)
Rubber band
Plastic sieve or strainer
Non-metallic utensils

Check out the article for more details on how to choose the right ingredients and how to do the secondary fermentation.

Author: Ivo
Prep Time: 10min
Fermentation Time: 24-24h
Category: beverage, drink
Method: fermentation
Cuisine: International
Diet: Vegan