No More Soda!

I'm reposting this in order to participate in FoodRenegade's "Fight Back Friday."

We all know that soda is bad for us. High Fructose Corn Syrup, calcium-leaching carbonated water, and artificial colors and flavorings are just a few of the reasons I avoid soda as much as possible. However, it seems that no matter how bad I *know* it is, it's just so hard to resist that cold bubbly beverage, especially in the summer!

I think I may have found my salvation - in the form of a little white grain. Kefir grains are a combination of bacteria and yeasts more plentiful than those found in yogurt. Traditionally used to make a dairy based drink, kefir grains were added to milk and allowed to ferment for about 24 hours. The dairy drink is something I would compare to a thin, tart yogurt.

Recently, I discovered that there are "water kefir" grains that feed off water and sugar instead of milk. These water kefir grains can be used to make a super yum and refreshing drink with naturally occuring carbonation. You can flavor it with just about anything you like: sugar, honey, dried fruits, the possibilities are endless.

Last week, I got my first water kefir grains from a lady who lives nearby (the kefir grains naturally grow and reproduce, eventually giving you more than you can use). My first batch was simply water and honey and tastes like a lightly sweetened carbonated, slightly fermented drink. Like light champagne I suppose? I was really happy with how it turned out, honestly, and I'm excited to try more variations.

Here are basic instructions for making water kefir:

Mix 1/3 cup sugar, honey or maple syrup with 1 quart of water in a glass jar

Add water kefir grains

Cover lightly (if you tighten the lid too much, the pressure can cause it to explode)

Let sit on countertop for 24-48 hours

Strain grains from water with a non-metallic strainer

Refrigerate and enjoy!

I also found a very informative adobe file on making different kinds of water kefir.