Healthy & Special Diets > Fermented Foods Recipes (Healthy) > Kefir Recipes (Healthy) > Water Kefir Recipes

Lemon Ginger Water Kefir

A refreshing and gut-friendly probiotic drink made with water kefir grains, lemon, and ginger. This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite flavors.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
24-48 hours (fermentation)
Servings
Approximately 1 liter
Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons Water Kefir Grains
  • 1 liter Filtered Water
  • 1/4 cup Organic Cane Sugar
  • 1 Lemon Slice
  • 2 Ginger Slice

First Fermentation

Prepare the Sugar Water: Dissolve the organic cane sugar in the filtered water, stirring until completely dissolved. Avoid using chlorinated tap water, as chlorine can harm the kefir grains.

Add Lemon and Ginger: Place the lemon slice and ginger slices into a clean glass jar (approximately 1 liter capacity).

Add Sugar Water: Pour the sugar water mixture into the jar, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top.

Add Kefir Grains: Gently add the water kefir grains to the jar.

Fermentation: Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or coffee filter secured with a rubber band. This allows air to circulate while preventing fruit flies from entering.

Location: Place the jar in a dark, room-temperature location (ideally between 68-78°F or 20-26°C) for 24-48 hours. The fermentation time will depend on the temperature of your environment; warmer temperatures will result in faster fermentation.

Taste Test: After 24 hours, taste the water kefir. It should be slightly sweet and tart. If it's still too sweet, allow it to ferment for another 12-24 hours. Avoid fermenting for longer than 48 hours in the first fermentation, as it can deplete the sugar and damage the grains.

Second Fermentation (Optional)

Strain the Kefir: After the first fermentation, strain the water kefir through a plastic strainer (avoid metal strainers, as they can react with the kefir) into a clean glass bottle or jar. Remove the lemon and ginger slices.

Preserve the Grains: Set aside the water kefir grains with a little of the finished kefir for use in your next batch.

Add Flavorings (Optional): For a second fermentation, you can add fruit juice (e.g., berries, grape, apple), chopped fruit, or herbs to the strained kefir. Use about 1/4 cup of juice or fruit per liter of kefir.

Bottle and Ferment: Seal the bottle tightly and let it ferment at room temperature for another 12-24 hours. This will increase carbonation and enhance the flavor. Be cautious, as pressure can build up during the second fermentation.

Refrigerate: After the second fermentation, refrigerate the kefir to slow down fermentation and prevent over-carbonation. Consume within a week for best flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g)

Please note that the nutrition facts can vary based on the fermentation time and ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 20-30 kcal
Carbohydrates: 5-7g (primarily from remaining sugars)
Sugar: Varies depending on fermentation
Probiotics: Varies depending on fermentation

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Sugar Content: During fermentation, the kefir grains consume the sugar, reducing the sugar content in the final product. However, some residual sugar will remain. If you are concerned about sugar intake, consider fermenting for a longer period.

Probiotic Benefits: Water kefir is rich in beneficial bacteria and yeasts, which can support gut health. However, the specific strains and amounts can vary.

Individual Tolerance: Some individuals may experience digestive upset when first consuming fermented foods. Start with small amounts and gradually increase your intake.

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FAQ

  • What if my water kefir is too sweet?

    If your water kefir is too sweet, it means the grains haven't consumed enough of the sugar. Allow it to ferment for a longer period (up to 48 hours) in the first fermentation. Make sure the temperature is optimal for fermentation (68-78°F or 20-26°C).
  • What if my water kefir is too sour?

    If your water kefir is too sour, it means the grains have consumed too much of the sugar. Reduce the fermentation time or decrease the amount of kefir grains used. Also, ensure the fermentation temperature is not too high.
  • Can I use honey instead of sugar?

    It is generally not recommended to use honey as the primary sugar source for water kefir, as it can be difficult for the grains to process and may alter the flavor profile significantly. If you do use honey, use a small amount and monitor the grains closely.
  • How do I store my water kefir grains?

    If you need to take a break from making water kefir, you can store the grains in a jar of sugar water in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks. Change the sugar water every week or two. For longer storage, you can dehydrate the grains, but this may weaken them, and they may take time to reactivate.