How to make Kefir at home, forever!

Summary

In this video, Demetro teaches viewers how to make kefir at home, a healthy and cost-effective probiotic drink. The process is simple: start by adding kefir grains to milk and allowing it to ferment for 18-24 hours. Afterward, strain the kefir, return the grains to the jar with more milk, and repeat. The homemade kefir can be stored in mason jars and refrigerated for future use. This DIY method is not only more affordable than store-bought probiotics, but it also offers additional health benefits. Demetro encourages viewers to give it a try and enjoy the results in smoothies or as a refreshing drink.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kefir is a probiotic-rich drink that can easily be made at home using kefir grains and milk.
• 😀 You can use any kind of milk for kefir—cow's, sheep's, or goat's milk. Organic milk is preferred for the best results.
• 😀 Kefir grains look like small cauliflower florets and are the key ingredient in making kefir.
• 😀 Kefir grains multiply over time, so you'll always have enough to continue making more kefir.
• 😀 Once the kefir has fermented for 18–24 hours, strain it using a fine strainer to separate the liquid from the grains.
• 😀 After straining, do not wash the kefir grains with water—this preserves the beneficial bacteria needed for the next batch.
• 😀 The ideal ratio for making kefir is 1 tablespoon of kefir grains to 2 cups of milk.
• 😀 You can store your kefir in mason jars in the fridge for later use, especially for smoothies or other recipes.
• 😀 If you're going on vacation or will be busy, store kefir grains in the refrigerator to keep them viable for up to 6 months or more.
• 😀 Kefir is a cheaper and healthier alternative to store-bought probiotic drinks and pills, offering a natural source of probiotics.
• 😀 If kefir ferments too long and separates into curds and whey, it is still good to drink, though it will taste more tangy and sour.

Q & A

What are the main ingredients needed to make kefir at home?

You will need kefir grains, milk (any type you prefer such as organic cow, goat, or sheep milk), a strainer, and a container or bowl to catch the strained kefir.

How long should kefir ferment before straining?

Kefir should ferment for 18-24 hours at room temperature. After this time, the milk will thicken and turn into kefir.

What do kefir grains look like after straining?

After straining, the kefir grains look like tiny cauliflower florets. These grains are reusable for making future batches of kefir.

Can you wash kefir grains with water?

No, you should never wash kefir grains with water. The milk residue left on them helps with fermenting future batches and adding probiotics.

How much milk should you add to the kefir grains?

The typical ratio is about 1 tablespoon of kefir grains for every 2 cups of milk. This ratio ensures proper fermentation.

What happens if kefir is left to ferment for too long?

If kefir is left to ferment too long, it may separate into curds and whey. This is still fine to drink, but it will have a more tangy and sour flavor.

Can kefir grains be stored if I’m not making kefir for a while?

Yes, you can store kefir grains in the refrigerator if you're not making kefir for an extended period. They can last up to several months in cold storage.

What is the best way to store kefir once it’s made?

Once kefir is strained, it should be refrigerated. It can be consumed as a drink or used in smoothies.

Why is making kefir at home considered healthier and cheaper than buying it in stores?

Making kefir at home is much cheaper because you only need to buy kefir grains once. Additionally, homemade kefir is packed with probiotics, which are often more beneficial when consumed through food rather than supplements.

How can you tell if kefir has fermented properly?

Properly fermented kefir will have a thickened consistency and a slightly tangy taste. If left too long, it may separate into curds and whey, but it is still safe to drink.