How to Make Kefir Grains

So you know how to make kefir drinks from the kefir grains you have now, but you may be wondering how to make kefir grains yourself. The answer: you cannot actually create the grains yourself without first purchasing some, but once you have your initial batch of kefir grains, you never need to buy more - unless they are damaged or get lost at some point.

Basic info on making kefir grains

Commonly, people grow kefir grains by stirring them into milk. Raw milk is best to use for health benefits.

By adding a large spoonful of kefir grains into a jar, about quart size, and then filling the rest of it up with milk, you will naturally grow kefir grains. This mixture should be stored at room temperature to ferment.

Length of kefir fermentation

Mild flavor is best achieved after overnight fermentation. On the other hand, you can leave the kefir grains for several days if you like a thick, sour flavor and consistency.

Once refrigerated, your kefir will continue to ferment, but at a slower pace.

Storing kefir grains

When you are ready to drink your homemade kefir, strain the current batch and filter out your grains. You can store these in a small amount of fresh milk in the fridge, or you can just start a new batch right away. The interesting thing is that the amount of kefir grains you have will grow because the organisms that make up kefir grains multiply.

So you can literally make kefir grains from the original ones.

When your kefir grains become too large to handle, peel some off and discard them - or better yet, give them to a friend.