A step-by-step guide to successfully growing and multiplying your water kefir grains (Tibicos) for a continuous supply of homemade probiotic beverages.
Grow Your Water Kefir Grains
A step-by-step guide to successfully growing and multiplying your water kefir grains (Tibicos) for a continuous supply of homemade probiotic beverages.
Ingredients
- 1 cup filtered water (unchlorinated
- 2 tbsp organic cane sugar (or other mineral-rich sugar)
- 0.25 cup water kefir grains
Instructions
- Prepare Your Sugar Water: In a clean glass jar, dissolve 2 tablespoons of organic cane sugar in 1 cup of filtered water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add Water Kefir Grains: Gently add 1/4 cup of active water kefir grains to the sugar water. Ensure your grains are healthy and plump.
- Cover and Ferment: Cover the jar with a breathable cloth and secure it with a rubber band. This allows air circulation while keeping contaminants out. Place the jar in a consistent room temperature environment (68-75°F / 20-24°C) away from direct sunlight.
- First Fermentation (F1): Allow the mixture to ferment for 24-48 hours. The duration depends on the temperature, the activity of your grains, and your desired sweetness/tanginess. Taste periodically. It should become less sweet and slightly tangy.
- Strain and Separate: Once fermented, strain the water kefir liquid into another clean bottle using a plastic mesh sieve. The strained liquid is your finished water kefir, ready for a second fermentation or immediate consumption. Gently separate any new, multiplied grains from the original batch.
- Repeat the Process: Place the strained water kefir grains back into a clean jar with a new batch of sugar water to continue growing and producing more water kefir. If you have too many grains, you can share them, dehydrate them for storage, or compost them.
Notes
For a mineral boost, consider adding a pinch of unrefined sea salt or a single organic dried fig or raisin to your brew during fermentation. Always use non-reactive materials like glass, plastic, or wood, as metal can harm your grains. Adjust sugar and grain ratio based on your grains' activity and desired sweetness. Grains can be stored in sugar water in the fridge for a few weeks if you need a break.
