Water kefir recipe is a refreshing, probiotic-rich fermented drink made from water kefir grains, sugar, and water. Unlike milk kefir, water kefir offers a dairy-free and alcohol-free alternative, making it a great choice for vegans and those avoiding alcohol.
This lightly carbonated beverage is packed with beneficial bacteria and yeast, supporting gut health and overall well-being. In this guide, we’ll walk you through an easy, alcohol-free water kefir recipe and explain why adding this drink to your daily routine can benefit your health in numerous ways.
Water Kefir Recipe
Equipment
- 1-quart glass jar
- Plastic or wooden spoon
- Cheesecloth or coffee filter
- Rubber band
- Fine mesh strainer (preferably plastic)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A clean bottle (for storing kefir)
Ingredients
- ¼ cup water kefir grains
- ¼ cup organic cane sugar
- 4 cups filtered water
- 1 small piece of lemon (optional)
- 1 dried fruits like figs or raisins (optional)
- Fresh fruits, herbs, or juices (for flavoring, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Dissolve the Sugar
- In the glass jar, add ¼ cup of organic cane sugar to 4 cups of filtered water.Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
Step 2: Add the Water Kefir Grains
- Add ¼ cup of water kefir grains to the sugar water.Optionally, add a small piece of lemon and 1-2 dried fruits for added flavor and minerals.
Step 3: Cover and Ferment
- Cover the jar with cheesecloth or a coffee filter and secure it with a rubber band.Let the jar sit at room temperature (68-85°F) for 24-48 hours. The fermentation process will depend on the room temperature. Warmer environments will ferment faster.
Step 4: Strain the Kefir
- After 24-48 hours, taste your water kefir. If it’s slightly tangy with a hint of sweetness, it's ready.Strain the liquid into a clean glass bottle using a fine mesh strainer, reserving the water kefir grains for your next batch.
Step 5: Second Fermentation (Optional)
- If you want a flavored or fizzy water kefir, add fruit, juice, or herbs to the strained kefir.Seal the bottle tightly and let it sit for another 24 hours at room temperature.After 24 hours, refrigerate the kefir. Once chilled, your water kefir is ready to enjoy!
Step 6: Store the Kefir Grains
- Place the strained water kefir grains in a fresh batch of sugar water to start a new batch, or store them in a jar with sugar water in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Why You Should Drink Water Kefir
Water kefir is not just a delicious, fizzy drink—it’s a powerhouse of probiotics that can improve your digestive health. Probiotics are live microorganisms, often referred to as “good bacteria,” that help maintain the balance of microorganisms in your gut. Here’s why you should consider making water kefir a part of your daily routine:
- Improves Digestive Health: The probiotic content in water kefir promotes a healthy gut by populating your intestines with beneficial bacteria. These bacteria help break down food more effectively, which can relieve digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and constipation.
- Boosts Immunity: A healthy gut is directly linked to a strong immune system. The good bacteria in water kefir support immune function by combating harmful pathogens in the body, thus reducing your risk of infections and illnesses.
- Supports Weight Management: Probiotics in water kefir can help regulate your metabolism and improve digestion, contributing to better weight management. Drinking water kefir regularly can also help reduce sugar cravings, which can support a healthier diet.
- Enhances Skin Health: A well-functioning digestive system can also benefit your skin. The detoxifying effects of probiotics can help reduce acne, inflammation, and other skin issues that stem from gut imbalances.
- Balances Mood and Mental Health: Studies show that gut health is closely connected to brain function. A balanced gut microbiome can help regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental clarity.
Health Benefits of Water Kefir in Detail
- Rich in Probiotics: The fermentation process produces probiotics that promote a healthy gut flora, aiding digestion, nutrient absorption, and even mood regulation. Water kefir contains strains like Lactobacillus, which is particularly beneficial for gut health.
- Promotes Hydration: Water kefir is naturally hydrating, making it an excellent replacement for sugary drinks. The electrolytes present in water kefir can keep you hydrated and energized throughout the day.
- Low in Sugar: Although sugar is required to feed the kefir grains during fermentation, most of the sugar is consumed in the process, making the final drink much lower in sugar than soda or fruit juices.
- Contains B Vitamins: Water kefir contains B vitamins produced during fermentation, which help in energy production, brain function, and cell metabolism.
- Detoxifies the Body: The probiotics and enzymes found in water kefir can help detoxify the body by aiding liver function and removing toxins from the system.
Water Kefir Recipe
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup water kefir grains
- 4 cups filtered water (non-chlorinated)
- ¼ cup organic cane sugar
- 1 lemon slice (optional)
- 1 dried fig or dried apricot (optional for flavor)
- Glass jar (1-liter size)
- Cheesecloth or paper towel
- Rubber band
Instructions:
- Prepare the Water: In a large glass jar, dissolve the sugar in filtered water. Ensure the water is at room temperature to avoid harming the kefir grains.
- Add Kefir Grains: Add the water kefir grains to the jar with the sugar water. You can also add a slice of lemon or a dried fruit like a fig or apricot for additional flavor.
- Fermentation: Cover the jar with a cheesecloth or paper towel and secure it with a rubber band. Let the water kefir ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours. The longer you let it ferment, the more tangy and less sweet it will become.
- Strain the Kefir: After fermentation, strain the liquid to remove the kefir grains and fruit. Transfer the liquid to a clean bottle. You can store it in the refrigerator or do a second fermentation with fruit or juice for added flavor.
- Re-use the Grains: Save the water kefir grains for your next batch. Simply place them in fresh sugar water and start the process again.
How to Enjoy Water Kefir
Once your water kefir is ready, you can drink it as is, or add fruit juice, herbs, or spices for a second fermentation to create unique flavors. Experiment with combinations like lemon and ginger, or strawberry and mint for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
Incorporating water kefir into your diet is a simple and delicious way to boost your health. From improving digestion to enhancing your immune system and promoting hydration, this probiotic drink offers a wealth of benefits. Plus, with its alcohol-free nature, water kefir is suitable for all ages, making it a great addition to any healthy lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for a natural way to support your gut health or just want a tasty, fizzy drink without the sugar and alcohol, this easy water kefir recipe has you covered!