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    Home » Recipes » Italian Recipes

    How To Make Homemade Kefir

    Updated: May 5, 2022 · Published: Oct 1, 2019 by Andrea

    Jump to Recipe

    A super easy guide on how to make homemade kefir. This fermented milk drink is full of beneficial bacteria and simple to make with just 2 ingredients!

    Kefir is a fermented milk drink product, similar to yogurt, although since it has a thinner consistency can be enjoyed as a drink, just like milk.

    It is said to have originated from the Turkish word “Keif” which means “good feeling”, and it's believed to have originated centuries ago from the shepherds of the Caucasus mountains.

    Why Kefir is so good for you?

    Milk kefir is considered to be a superfood among other milk products, even more than yogurt.

    In addition to beneficial bacteria, kefir grains often contain strains of yeast that can metabolize lactose. You can read more about them here.

    When you add kefir grains to milk, they consume the lactose in the milk, producing a fermented drink that’s loaded with beneficial bacteria and yeast.

    Due to its process, people who are lactose intolerant may be able to consume homemade kefir, as the bacteria present in kefir break down much of the lactose.

    Homemade VS Store-bought

    Making kefir at home is SO much better than buying it at the grocery store, because:

    a) You're in control of the ingredients. Most commercial brands add sugar and flavourings.

    When you make it at home, you know exactly what goes in, and you can keep it plain and simple.

    b) It’s cheaper – If you want to incorporate it in your daily routine, you’ll find that buying the grains and making it yourself, in the long run will be loads cheaper than buying the store-bought alternative.

    What is The Difference Between Grains and Starter?

    The main difference between kefir grains and the starter is that the bacteria in the powdered starter is freeze-dried and the bacteria in the grains are alive.

    The grains are a bit more expensive (think of them as a small investment) and are live cultures, so you need to keep feeding them by making kefir over and over again, otherwise, they will go to waste.

    The powder, on the other hand, is cheaper and intended for one-time-use (although you can technically make a few batches with 1 sachet).

    For first-time users, I recommend you use the powder instead of grains.

    Perfect if you want to try homemade kefir for the first time, or you’re making it only occasionally.

    What Milk Can You use?

    Whether you use grains or powder, they work best with fresh whole animal milk.

    You can use cow milk (I used a2 Milk™), sheep or goat milk, with the same results.

    How To Make Homemade Kefir

    You don’t need any sort of special equipment to make kefir at home.

    All you need is milk, kefir grains or powder, a large mason jar and a small cotton cheesecloth (or a plastic strainer).

    Avoid using metal tools in direct contact, as it's believed to harm the kefir grains.

    Start by placing the kefir grains or powder into the jar, then pour the milk in.

    glass jar with kefir grains, glass jug pouring milk into the jar, a2 milk carton in the background

    Cover the jar with the lid, but do not close it all the way, to allow the kefir to “breath”.

    Alternatively, cover the jar with a cheesecloth and secure it with a band.

    Allow the kefir to sit at room temperature (ideally between 19-24 degrees) for about 24 hours.

    Once the 24 hours have passed, gently stir the kefir with a wooden or plastic spoon.

    It's ok if it's a little too thick, once strained it will reach a thinner consistency.

    Using a plastic strainer or kitchen cloth*, strain the prepared mixture into another jar, to separate the grains from the ready-to-drink kefir.

    glass jar covered with cheese cloth,, glass jug pouring homemade kefir into the jar, a2 milk carton in the background

    *If you’re using the milk kefir powder, you don’t necessarily need to strain, and the kefir is ready to drink immediately.

    How To Store Your Kefir Drink?

    I recommend storing it in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also store it in the freezer for up to 1 month.

    What To Do With Your Kefir?

    Drink it straight-up, or add it to smoothies, lassi or to smoothie bowls. You can also use it to make kefir yogurt if you like.

    Use it in place of yogurt/buttermilk/milk when baking cakes, muffins or pancakes.

    If you have used the grains, once strained, transfer them immediately in a new jar and repeat the whole process to make a new batch of kefir.

    Similarly, if you have used the powder and want to make a new batch, just save 60ml from the kefir you have just prepared and repeat the process.

    Where To Buy Grains or Powdered Starter Culture?

    The easiest way to get your hands on kefir grains is finding a friend who already has a bunch of them.

    If you don’t know anyone, you can check on online local communities or local Facebook groups.

    You can also buy kefir grains online, they’re easily available on the most common online market places.

    Kefir powdered starter cultures come in convenient sachets and are also available online.

    Homemade kefir into small glass bottle, glass with kefir next to it over a light blue napkin and wood board

    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

    Please let me know how you liked it! Leave a comment below and share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #thepetitecook! Looking at your pictures always makes me smile *and super hungry*!

     

    Recipe

    Homemade kefir in small glass bottle next to a glass with kefir, over light blue napkin and wood board
    Print SaveSaved!
    4.78 from 9 votes

    How To Make Homemade Kefir

    Prevent your screen from going dark
    A super easy guide on how to make homemade kefir. This fermented milk drink is full of beneficial bacteria and simple to make with just 2 ingredients!
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time5 minutes mins
    Course: Drinks
    Cuisine: Homemade
    Serving: 2
    Calories: 82kcal
    Author: Andrea Soranidis

    Ingredients

    • 250 ml fresh whole milk, I used a2 Milk™
    • 1 tablespoon milk kefir grains or powder

    Instructions

    • Start by placing the kefir grains or powder into the jar, then pour the milk in.
    • Cover the jar with the lid, but do not close it all the way, to allow the kefir to “breath”. Alternatively, cover the jar with a cheesecloth and secure with a band. Allow the kefir to sit at room temperature (ideally between 19-24 degrees) for about 24 hours.
    • Once the 24 hours have passed, gently stir the kefir. It's ok if it's a little too thick, once strained it will reach a thinner consistency. Using a strainer or kitchen cloth*, strain the prepared mixture into another jar, to separate the grains from the ready-to-drink kefir.
    • *If you’re using the milk kefir powder, you don’t necessarily need to strain, and the kefir is ready to drink immediately.
    • Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Drink kefir straight-up, or add it to smoothies, lassi or to smoothie bowls. You can also use it in place of yogurt/buttermilk/milk when baking cakes, muffins or pancakes.

    Video

    Notes

    How long can you keep kefir milk in the fridge?
    Store milk kefir in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. 
    Did you try this recipe? Tag @thepetitecook or use the hashtag #thepetitecook - Looking at your pictures makes my day!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 82kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 53mg | Potassium: 193mg | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 224IU | Calcium: 168mg

    The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

    This post was originally published in June 2017 and updated with more info and a video recipe.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Benjamin Davidson says

      July 13, 2022 at 4:02 pm

      I tried Kefir...and I love it!

      Reply
    2. Jenny Fisk says

      May 19, 2021 at 7:25 am

      5 stars
      Just started making it after buying it for about six months. Very easy once you understand the “grains”. I bought ready cultured ones from a eBay seller. I make one cup (175ml) a day. Loving it.!!! Never run out and much cheaper.

      Reply
    3. Lauren Lee says

      February 09, 2021 at 3:44 pm

      5 stars
      I have received Kefir from a friend and I have been enjoy making them and drinking them everyday. It really helps with digestion and I feel like I am losing weight just by drink it each day. Only thing is that now that I am making it on my own feels like I am running out of milk so fast..having to go to grocery more often than I had intended. But other than that, I am planning on making it each day ahead.

      Reply
    4. Margaret de Geus says

      November 08, 2019 at 7:13 pm

      The company that makes the A2 milk is no longer making or selling it. Is there anyone else that makes this? Thanks

      Reply
    5. fitnesshealthforever says

      May 31, 2019 at 5:49 am

      Hey, very nice article. I came across this on Google, and I am stoked that I did. I will definitely be coming back here more often. Wish I could add to the conversation and bring a bit more to the table, but am just taking in as much info as I can at the moment. Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
    6. Michele says

      May 25, 2019 at 3:05 am

      I never realized how easy it was to make Kefir. Now I have to try this!

      Reply
    7. Samantha says

      May 24, 2019 at 6:13 am

      I made it a couple of days ago and it was delicious. Thank you for the recipe!

      Reply
    8. Hadia says

      May 20, 2019 at 11:53 pm

      I usually make my own yogurt, but never made kefir. Sounds intersting!

      Reply
    9. Mimazine says

      July 06, 2017 at 4:38 pm

      I love Kefir, but never thought of making my own! Thanks for sharing this, will have to give it a go! xx

      Reply
    10. Olivia Thristan says

      June 28, 2017 at 9:09 am

      I've never heard of a kefir, however this looks tasty and your pics are lovely! 🙂

      Reply
    11. The Indigo Hours says

      June 27, 2017 at 9:01 pm

      I've heard of kefir before but didn't actually know what it was so this was super interesting to read! Sounds like it has some really great health benefits 🙂

      Reply
    12. Cassie Mayers says

      June 27, 2017 at 8:39 pm

      I have never heard of this or tried it. But it does look like something I really should try as it sounds so good for you.

      Reply
    13. Sam ? (@SamGriffBlog) says

      June 27, 2017 at 6:49 pm

      I'm ashamed to admit I've never actually heard of kefir! It looks and sounds interesting though, I may have to have a go at making some x

      Reply
    14. cottagegardentrio says

      June 27, 2017 at 10:56 am

      I've never even heard of Kefir but it looks so
      Simple I may have to try it out!

      Reply
    15. thesparklenest says

      June 26, 2017 at 7:52 pm

      I've just started making my own water kefir, which isn't very tasty although I'm getting used to the taste! I'm a bit over run with grains though, I didn't realise they multiplied! It's a learning curve, I'm really enjoying it!

      Reply
      • Ethna Curley says

        January 16, 2021 at 4:02 pm

        5 stars
        Just made my own Kefir and am delighted with it. I usually buy it at my local supermarket but as I am shielding decided to have a go . I was introduced to this lovely drink a few years ago when I couldn’t get rid of a sore mouth and tongue after having to take antibiotics for a chest infection . My condition improved so much after a few days thanks to Kefir.

        Reply
    16. Ana De-Jesus says

      June 26, 2017 at 4:46 pm

      I have never tried my own Kefir but I do like it and often drink it after a meal. I like the idea of making my own x

      Reply
    17. Rhian Westbury says

      June 26, 2017 at 3:22 pm

      I've never heard of kefir but it sounds intriguing as it's just two ingredients x

      Reply
    18. jenny says

      June 26, 2017 at 9:42 am

      This sounds fascinating to make, and tasty to drink too!

      Reply
    4.78 from 9 votes (5 ratings without comment)

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