Kefir Recipe

This kefir recipe is an easy way to make the healthiest drink possible. Learn how to make kefir, and you have self-sufficient healing for you and your family, including healing of ulcers, gastrointestinal problems, and sleep disorders.

Plus, kefir builds your immune system. The health benefits of kefir are so great that it's an essential for anyone seeking self-sufficient healing.

What is Kefir?

kefir-grains

Kefir is a drink made from milk and kefir grains, which are live organisms that feed off sugary substances, such as milk or sugar water.

Kefir was first discovered by shepherds who lived in the Caucasus Mountains. They often carried milk stored in leather pouches and found that milk left in those pouches long enough produced a fizzy drink similar to yogurt but far more healthier.

They found that when they drank this milk, it made them feel really, really good.  In fact, the word kefir comes from the Turkish word “keyif,” which means “good feeling”.

Kefir is loaded with probiotics - good bacteria that improve your gastrointestinal health, build your immune system, and may even help you lose weight.  Today's modern fast-food diet is loaded with fat, sugar, and chemicals that, over time, make your intestinal lining more porous and leave your system vulnerable to disease.  That’s why it’s so important to include probiotic foods in your diet, such as kefir.  You can buy kefir at the health store, but you can save money by making your own healthy kefir at home. To do so, you will need live kefir grains.

Where to Get Kefir Grains

To make the healthiest possible kefir, you will need kefir grains. You can buy them online, which is what I did.  My grains were sent to me by mail, and I made kefir from those grains for several years.  Because your kefir grains are a live culture, you will need to make a batch of kefir at least every four days or so to keep your grains alive.

How to Make Kefir

This is the kefir recipe I have been using for years.  It couldn’t be simpler.  You will need:

  • 1 quart mason jar
  • cheesecloth or coffee filter
  • rubber band
  • 2 cups whole milk or raw milk
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons live kefir grains
  • plastic strainer
  • plastic spoon

Pour the milk into the mason jar and add the kefir grains.  Cover the jar with the cheesecloth or coffee filter and hold the cover in place with the rubber band.  Allow the jar to sit on your kitchen counter overnight and away from direct sunlight.  The next day you will have kefir.   Pour it through a strainer to capture the grains to make a new batch.  Use the plastic spoon to press the kefir off the grains.  Put the remaining solids in another clean jar and add fresh milk for your next batch of kefir. You do not need to rinse your solids, but if you do, use filtered water only. Tap water will kill your kefir grains.

If you prefer a stronger flavor, let your kefir ferment for two or three days, but don’t let the kefir to ferment longer than four days, or it will be way too strong and will eventually sour.  There have been times when I was out of town and our kefir sat out for four days.  We couldn’t drink the kefir but I was able to strain the grains to make a fresh batch.  I poured the super strong kefir down the drain for a healthy septic system.

Your kefir grains will multiply over time, so you will need to share them with friends or add them to your smoothie.

Liven Up Your Kefir With
a Tasty Smoothie

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I’m not a fan of plain kefir, and you might not be either.  Even mild kefir tastes a bit like sour milk, which is why I recommend making it into a smoothie. 

It will taste a whole lot better, while making you feel better as well. 

These recipes are from the book Drink Your Way to Gut Health: 140 Delicious Probiotic Smoothies & Other Drinks that Cleanse and Heal by Molly Morgan. 

All of these smoothies can be made up ahead of time and then stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Pineapple Chia Colada Kefir Recipe

  • 1 cup cubed fresh pineapple
  • 1/2 cup light coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup plain kefir
  • 2 teaspoons chia seeds

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.  This kefir recipe makes two servings.

Vanilla Smoothie

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup plain kefir
  • 1 cup low-fat or nonfat plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons agave nectar
  • 8 ice cubes

Put the kefir, yogurt and vanilla extract in a blender and combine.  Add the agave nectar and ice.  Blend until smooth.  Makes three servings.

Walnut Honey Kefir Recipe

  • 1 cup plain kefir
  • 1/2 cups walnuts
  • 1/2 cup low-fat or nonfat milk
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • 4 or 5 ice cubes

Combine the kefir and the walnuts in a blender and blend until smooth.  Add the milk, honey and ice cubes.  Blend until frothy and smooth.  This kefir recipe makes two servings.

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About the Author

My name is Sue Merriam, and I began the journey of self-reliant living more than three decades ago, which enabled me to stay home with my children. Fifteen years ago, I founded Joyful Homesteading to help others save money and face the future without fear. My goal is to give you practical, honest advice so you can save money and experience the joy of simple living. I hope you join me.

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