Kefir 101

Kefir – WHAT IS IT?

Kefir is a culture (a lot like sourdough or yogurt) that is added to milk and creates a HUGE amount of microorganisms that will keep your gut happy.

“It contains strains of beneficial yeast and beneficial bacteria (in a symbiotic relationship) that give kefir antibiotic properties. A natural antibiotic—and it is made from milk!”

– Nourishing Traditions Cookbook.

It comes in the form of grains or powder.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF IT:

It is so easy!

Add it to your pint or quart jar of raw milk, leave it on the counter for 24 hrs, and let it do its thing. Once it’s thick and sour, move it to the fridge.

Now, there is a difference in kefir grains and powder. Make sure to identify which one you have. If you have grains, you will want to filter those out through a small mesh strainer. Those grains need to be added to the next jar of milk to continue the kefir culture.

 If your culture was made from powder, you can transfer ¼ cup to your next jar at any time to continue the culture.

RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 2 cups (1 quart) fresh whole milk, nonhomogenized and preferably raw

• 1 tablespoon kefir grains or 1 package kefir powder.

Instructions

1.     Pour milk in a clean wide-mouth, quart-size mason jar.

2.     Add kefir grains or powder to milk, stir well and cover loosely with a cloth. Place in a warm place (65 to 76 degrees) for 12 hours to 2 days.

3.     If using the powder, kefir is ready when it thickens, usually within 24 hours.

4.     If using grains, stir vigorously occasionally to redistribute the grains. Every time you stir, taste the kefir. When it achieves a tartness to your liking, the kefir is ready.

5.     If using grains, pour the kefir through a strainer into another jar to remove the grains. Store in refrigerator.

6.     Use the grains to make another batch of kefir OR use ¼ cup of kefir from powder to culture your next jar.

HOW TO USE IT:

I’ve heard of people drinking it straight, but I don’t recommend that.

The best way is with smoothies! Just add a cup or two to your favorite smoothie.

I never use water in my smoothies. I used to use my raw milk. But NOW I only use kefir!

With how easy it is to keep and how beneficial it is to your family’s health it is a MUST-HAVE in your kitchen.

Need a couple of kefir smoothie recipes? Reach out via email and ask. I’ll send over my 2 favorites.