What is Water Kefir?

Water kefir is a fermented probiotic drink using water kefir culture (also known as water kefir grains). This delicious, dairy-free beverage is packed with up to 50 different strains of probiotics and beneficial bacteria. Not to be confused with milk kefir, this effervescent drink is made by fermenting water and sugar, and then flavouring the fermented liquid using fruits, herbs and spices. While a similar concept to kombucha, there are distinct differences between water kefir and kombucha. Water kefir is caffeine-free, tends to be less tangy and sharp and of course has multiple health benefits by supporting gut health and your immune system. 

 

Water Kefir Ingredients

To make water kefir, gather the following ingredients and supplies:

• 3 Tablespoons live water kefir grains (or 1 tablespoons dried water kefir culture)
• 1/4 cup organic white or golden sugar
• 3-4 cups filtered water
• Glass jar 
• Elasticated cotton top (or a fine muslin with a rubber band)
• A sealable glass bottle or swing-top bottles

The Symbiota Water Kefir Kit contains everything you need to get started, all you need is water!

 

How to make Water Kefir 

1. Prepare the Sugar Water

Dissolve the sugar in filtered water in a 1L glass jar. It’s best to use a non-metal utensil and container, as metals can harm the live water kefir grains (stainless steel utensils are fine).

2. Add the Live Water Kefir Grains

Place the live water kefir grains into the room temperature sugar water. Cover the jar with an elasticated cotton top, or cloth or coffee filter and secure it with a rubber band.

3. Let the Fermentation Begin

Leave your mixture at room temperature and allow to ferment for 24 to 48 hours. During this time, the beneficial bacteria and yeast in the grains will transform the sugar water into a tangy, slightly fizzy beverage. For a stronger flavor and increased probiotics, let it ferment closer to 48 hours. The longer it ferments, the less sugar content will remain. The warmer the temperatures, the faster it will ferment. Avoid temperatures above 27 degrees Celsius. 

4. Strain and Store the Water Kefir

After fermentation, strain the water kefir grains using a fine mesh stainless steel strainer (not metal). The liquid can be consumed as is or you can transfer the liquid into a well sealing bottle or swing-top bottles for the fermented water kefir to carbonate. This is also the time to flavor your water kefir if desired, using fresh fruit, spices, herbs, or juice.

5. Second Fermentation (Optional)

If you prefer a fizzy drink, allow the flavored water kefir to undergo a second fermentation in sealed swing-top bottles at room temperature for an additional 24 to 48 hours. Then, store water kefir in the refrigerator to halt fermentation and enjoy it chilled.

Your water kefir will lose sweetness during the second stage ferment. If you are going to second stage ferment your water kefir ;It is best to strain your water kefir when it 

 

Tips for successful water kefir fermentation

• Avoid using water that contains chlorine or other chemicals that can harm the grains.
• Coconut water kefir is an exciting variation; simply replace the sugar water with coconut water. You will need to place the grains back into sugar water to maintain strength.
• Ferment your water kefir between 22 and 26 degrees Celsius for optimal fermentation.
• Always handle the grains with care and avoid exposing them to soap or detergents.
• Organic golden sugars are best as they contain minerals and do not have added bleaching agents, or chemicals like refined white sugars. 

 

What are the benefits of Water Kefir

The benefits of water kefir are numerous, making it a fantastic addition to your daily routine. It’s rich in probiotics, which contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. This, in turn, strengthens the immune system, aids digestion, and enhances nutrient absorption. Unlike milk kefir, water kefir is dairy-free, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.

 

How to make Water Kefir fizzy

To make water kefir fizzy it is important to use good quality ingredients such as organic sugars and pure water. Most of the fizz in water kefir comes from the second stage ferment, once fruits are added. It is also important to maintain the optimal fermentation temperatures which support creating a good fizz. 

Which is the best sugar for Water Kefir

While many people do have success for standard white sugar, it is recommended to use organic golden sugar or organic white sugar. Organic sugars still retain their mineral content which supports the strength of your culture, while standard white sugar is often bleached and subject to chemical processes. Lighter sugars are easier to metabolize than raw darker sugars. If you prefer to use raw sugars, titrate your cultures from lighter to darker sugars over several ferments so the culture can get used to the more complex raw sugars. Symbiota has a specially formulated kefir food made up of organic sugars which promotes vitality and resilience of the culture. 

 

How to store Water Kefir

• Once you have fermented water kefir, store it in the refrigerator to enjoy it fresh and bubbly. Refrigerated water kefir does tend to lose some of its fizz. 
• Keep your grains healthy by feeding them regularly with sugar water as per the instructions you receive
• For a break in brewing, store the grains in a small jar with sugar water in the fridge.

 

How to flavour water kefir

Flavoring water kefir is an exciting part of the process. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Fruit Infusions
• Fresh fruit: Add berries, citrus slices, or pineapple chunks.
• Herbs: Mint, basil, or lavender add a refreshing twist.
• Spices: Try ginger, vanilla or cinnamon for a warming flavor.

 

Water kefir can be used in numerous recipes and is a versatile addition to any household; including smoothies!

Water kefir is a versatile and healthful drink that’s easy to make at home. With this simple water kefir recipe, you can explore the world of fermentation while enjoying its many health benefits.