water kefir

[Ggirl]

I've been checking out making water kefir in the web. I was going to try and convert my milk grains.  but after a little investigation it seems they are actually 2 different things.  I think I'm going to order some water grains and make my own fizzy  massively probiotic drinks.  it's suppposed to taste much better than kombucha or rejuvalac, and not so heavy as milk kefir.  maybe i've found an answer for a refreshing non sugary drink!

[OhioHomestead]

My wife has made the water kefir from milk kefir grains and says she has only been able to create the liquid ferment but not get any water grains to start. 

[Ggirl]

From wht I've read it's not easy to do .  The grains die off after a few batches (milk to water).  I just ordered some water grains.  They come dehydrated so it's easy.

[fritz_monroe]

I'm looking into doing kefir or water kefir.  So looking for info.

Did you start making your water kefir?  Are you making it regularly?  How is it?

[Ggirl]

I made both.  They have different grains for each type.  After I made the water keffir I separated the grains.  Then I added a little fruit juice or some lemon wedge for flavor.  I put the lid on tight so it could carbonate.  My grandson loves it and he drinks it instead of soda.  It is just 1/3 cup sugar in a qt of water with the grians.  Most of the sugar gets eaten up by the grains.  I don't drink it anymore because I don't want to take any sugar in, but it is really good. For the milk you just add the grains to milk - fresh or store milk.  In a couple of days you have keffir.  You just pour it through a strainer and save the grains.

[Ggirl]

I've read to throw away the first couple of water reults and just get the starter going..  They say it doubles everytime. But it really dodon't.  In the beginning it was a little slower then when it got cranked up good it was almost doubling. 

[fritz_monroe]

Mine isn't growing very fast.  It is producing fine, but not increasing in size.

I'll have to give molasses a try.