Mix Ingredients: In a glass jar, mix 3 tablespoons of cane sugar and 1 tablespoon of unsulphured molasses with 30-32 ounces of room-temperature spring water. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Add Kefir Grains: Add ½ cup of water kefir grains to the jar, making sure they are fully submerged in the sugar water solution.
Cover the Jar :Cover the jar with a coffee filter or paper towel, and secure it with a rubber band to keep out contaminants.
Place in Warm Area: Store the jar in a warm area, away from direct sunlight, at a temperature between 68-78°F.
Ferment for 3-5 Days: Let the mixture ferment for 3-5 days. During this time, the kefir grains will consume the sugar and produce carbon dioxide.
Check the Fermentation: After 2-3 days, observe the color and taste of the liquid. It should turn from clear to slightly cloudy and have a tart taste.
Strain the Kefir Grains: Once fermentation is complete, strain the kefir grains from the liquid using a plastic strainer.
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Notes
Use Filtered Water: Chlorine and other chemicals in tap water can harm the kefir grains. Filtered water ensures the best results.
Choose Organic Sugar: Organic cane sugar or coconut sugar are great options. Avoid using honey, as it can inhibit fermentation.
Keep it Warm: Warmer temperatures help speed up the fermentation process. Aim for a room temperature between 68-78°F.
Avoid Metal Utensils: Always use a wooden spoon or plastic utensils when handling the grains. Metal can damage the kefir grains.
Don’t Overfill Your Jar: Leave at least 1 inch of space in the jar to allow room for the carbon dioxide produced during fermentation.
Experiment with Flavors: After the first fermentation, add fruit juice, fresh fruit purees, or herbs for a second fermentation to create different flavors.
Start a Journal: Keep a journal of your experiments, noting the amount of sugar, fermentation time, and flavors you try.