Probiotic Water Kefir Soda

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup water kefir grains

• ¼ cup organic cane sugar

• 4 cups filtered water

• ½ lemon or 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for flavoring)

• Dried fruits, such as raisins or apricots (optional, for flavoring)

Equipment:

• Glass jar (1 quart or larger)

• Non-metal stirring utensil

• Breathable cloth or coffee filter

• Rubber band

• Strainer or nylon mesh bag

• Glass bottles with tight-fitting lids for bottling

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the sugar: In a glass jar, add the sugar to the filtered water and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Add kefir grains: Add the water kefir grains to the sugar water mixture in the jar.

3. Fermentation: Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or coffee filter and secure it with a rubber band. Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, for about 24 to 48 hours. The fermentation time may vary depending on the temperature and desired taste.

4. Flavoring (optional): If you want to add flavor to your water kefir, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the fermented water kefir and stir. You can also add dried fruits like raisins or apricots for additional flavor. Remember to remove the lemon peel if using.

5. Strain the kefir: Using a strainer or nylon mesh bag, strain the fermented water kefir into a separate container, separating the kefir grains from the liquid. You can use a non-metal strainer or nylon bag to avoid damaging the grains.

6. Bottle the water kefir: Pour the strained water kefir into glass bottles with tight-fitting lids. Leave about an inch of headspace at the top. This step allows the kefir to carbonate during the second fermentation.

7. Second fermentation (optional): If you prefer a fizzy kefir, you can do a second fermentation. Seal the bottles tightly and let them sit at room temperature for another 24 to 48 hours. The longer you ferment, the fizzier it will become. Remember to "burp" the bottles occasionally to release pressure and prevent explosions.

8. Refrigerate and enjoy: After the second fermentation or if you choose not to do it, refrigerate the bottles to slow down the fermentation process. This will also help to develop the flavors. The water kefir is ready to drink and can be enjoyed chilled.

Note: Remember to reserve a portion of the strained kefir liquid along with the kefir grains to use as a starter for your next batch. You can store the kefir grains in the fridge with a small amount of water and sugar if you're not making a new batch immediately.

Enjoy your homemade water kefir! Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding fruits, herbs, or spices during the second fermentation to create unique variations.