Getting Started with Milk Kefir
Ingredients
- Milk kefir grains
- 2 cups of milk (cow, goat, or plant-based with no added preservatives)
Equipment
- A glass jar
- A plastic or wooden spoon (avoid metal)
- A breathable cover (e.g., cheesecloth)
- A strainer
Steps
- Prepare the Jar: Place 1–2 tablespoons of kefir grains into a clean glass jar.
- Add Milk: Pour milk over the grains, leaving space for expansion.
- Ferment: Cover the jar with a breathable cloth and let it sit at room temperature (20–25°C) for 24–48 hours.
- Strain and Store: Strain the liquid to separate the grains and transfer the kefir to a clean jar for refrigeration. The grains can be reused immediately for the next batch. This step should be performed using plastic/silicon or wood utensils as metal can damage the grains.
Getting Started with Water Kefir
Ingredients
- Water kefir grains
- 4 cups of water (non-chlorinated)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (cane sugar, coconut sugar, or jaggery)
- Optional: Dried fruits or lemon slices
Equipment
- A glass jar
- A plastic or wooden spoon
- A breathable cover
- A strainer
Steps
- Dissolve Sugar: Mix sugar into water until fully dissolved.
- Add Grains: Place water kefir grains into the jar and pour the sugar-water solution over them.
- Ferment: Add optional flavourings like dried fruits or lemon slices. Cover the jar with a breathable cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for 24–48 hours.
- Strain and Store: Strain the liquid, discarding fruits and saving the grains for reuse. Refrigerate the kefir and optionally perform a secondary fermentation to enhance carbonation.
Routine and Maintenance
- Feeding the Grains: Kefir grains need a constant supply of food (sugars for water kefir and lactose for milk kefir). Feed them every 24–48 hours to maintain their activity.
- Storage: If not in use, store kefir grains in the refrigerator, submerged in milk or sugar water.
- Sanitation: Use clean, non-metallic equipment to avoid contamination and preserve microbial viability.
Challenges and Tips
Common Issues
- Over-Fermentation: Leads to overly sour kefir. Reduce fermentation time or adjust grain-to-liquid ratio.
- Inactive Grains: Grains may lose viability if not fed regularly. Revive by soaking in fresh milk or sugar water.
Tips for Beginners
- Start with small batches to refine your process.
- Experiment with different milk types or flavourings to discover your preferences.
- Monitor fermentation times closely for optimal taste and texture.
Where to Buy Milk Kefir Grains in the UK: Top Sources for Fresh, Live Cultures?
If you’re looking to purchase milk kefir grains in the UK, here are several reputable sources:
- Happy Kombucha: Offers organic certified premium live milk kefir grains suitable for various types of milk, including dairy and non-dairy options.
- Live Kefir Company: A UK-based company providing live milk kefir grains, complete with instructions for use.
- Freshly Fermented: Supplies organic milk kefir grains that are UKAS lab-tested, ensuring high quality and safety.
- Amazon UK: Hosts a variety of sellers offering live milk kefir grains. It’s advisable to check reviews and ratings to ensure product quality.
When purchasing, consider factors such as product quality, customer reviews, and shipping options to make the best choice for your needs.
Have you tried making kefir? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
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