Kefir

Kefir (pronounced KEE-fuhr) is a lightly fizzy, tangy fermented drink traditionally made by fermenting milk with kefir grains.  It is a powerful, probiotic-rich cultured beverage that supports gut health, digestive efficiency, cardiovascular wellness, immunity, and nutrient intake.  Whether used to enrich smoothies, start a day with a gut-friendly boost, or ease digestion, kefir is a delicious and nourishing addition to daily life.  Kefir grains are tiny clusters of beneficial bacteria and yeasts resembling cottage cheese curds.  Unlike yogurt, which offers just a few strains, homemade kefir boasts 30–50 different probiotic strains, making it richer in live cultures. 

1. Supercharged Gut Support - Kefir is packed with dozens of probiotic species that help repopulate your gut flora.  Digestive enzymes assist with digestion, alleviate constipation, reduce acid reflux, and support lactose intolerance management  
2. Heart & Blood Pressure Support - Kefir contains bioactive peptides (natural ACE inhibitors) that support healthy blood pressure.  Clinical evidence shows that consuming kefir can reduce blood pressure, lower bad cholesterol (LDL), and improve cardiovascular risk profiles.  
3. Immune & Allergy Balance - Regular kefir  use may reduce allergies and respiratory issues like asthma, and help fight colds and flu.  Kefir replenishes good bacteria after antibiotic use and acts as a natural antimicrobial. 
4. Skin, Sleep, & Mood Boost -  Kefir promotes restful sleep, clearer skin, and boosts overall well-being.
5. Nutrient Dense - Kefir is naturally rich in protein, calcium, vitamin B12, folate, niacin, magnesium, and B vitamins, often more than regular milk. 
6. Supports Detox & Gut Lining - Kefir helps fortify the gut barrier and lower inflammation via modulation of gut microbes.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tablespoons Kefir Grains
• 1 Quart Wide-Mouth Mason Jar w/ white plastic lid
• Strainer
• 4 cup Pyrex Measuring Cup
• Organic Whole Milk or 2% Milk (do not use ultra-pasteurized milk)
• Small Spatula for Straining

Instructions:

1. Place fresh kefir grains in a glass jar and fill with fresh milk.  Leave some room at the top.
2. Place the plastic lid on the jar and let it sit at room temperature for approximately 24 hours or until the milk has thickened - you will see it separate a tiny bit and the kefir whey (clear/yellowish fluid) will be on the bottom)
3. Latch the strainer onto your four-cup measuring cup, and pour the contents of your kefir into the strainer.  Move the kefir around with the spatula to get the kefir to drop into the measuring cup, while leaving the grains in the strainer.
4. What you've strained is kefir ready to drink, or you can put it into the refrigerator for later.  I prefer to drink mine cold.  Before I drink it, I insert an immersion blender into the finished kefir (NOT the jar with the grains) and blend before drinking.
5. With the strained grains in your strainer, use the spatula to remove them into your fresh/clean quart mason jar and fill with milk.  This will repeat the process.

Notes:

• After kefir has fermented, it might be thin and pourable or it might be thick like yogurt.  The temperature of your home determines how quickly it ferments.
• If you go on vacation or want to take a break, simply place your grains in milk in the quart mason jar and leave them in the refrigerator.  The cold temperature in the refrigerator will slow down the production. They can stay in the refrigerator this way for a couple of weeks.

• Kefir Grains:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/store/product/donnas-kefir-grains/
• Pyrex 4-cup Measuring Cup:  https://a.co/d/flBN41w
• 5" Strainer:  https://a.co/d/ioF97rv
• Spatula:  https://a.co/d/eKU4Nxz
• Quart Wide-Mouth Mason Jars  w/ Plastic Lids:  https://a.co/d/aHyhJ2B