Making Milk Kefir | Guide and Useful Information
Milk kefir is a probiotic fermented beverage made from milk with the help of milk kefir grains. During fermentation, the live microorganisms in the grains convert milk sugar into lactic acid, carbonic acid, and valuable enzymes.
The result: a fizzy, slightly sour drink – natural, refreshing, and good for the gut flora.
Milk kefir can not only be enjoyed plain but also used in a variety of recipes – for example, in smoothies, dressings, or overnight oats. But more on that later – for now, let's go step-by-step through making your own kefir.
- Activation time: 5-7 days
- Fermentation time: 24-48 h after activation
- Shelf life: approx. 1 week (in the refrigerator)
Step 1: Activating the Kefir Grains
- Ingredients: approx. 2 L milk
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Tools (included in the Kefir Starter Set)
- 1 g milk kefir grains (dried)
- 1 Grow lid
- 1 Oleni Mason Jar | Wide | 0.75 L
If you are starting with dried grains, they need to be "woken up" before the first proper fermentation:
Thoroughly clean the jar and the Grow lid.
Add 1 g of dried milk kefir grains along with 100 ml of milk to the jar. Screw the Grow lid onto the jar and set it to "open" so that air can circulate and fermentation can proceed optimally.
Leave the mixture to stand at room temperature for 24 hours. Stir gently after 12 hours.
Drain the liquid and rinse the kefir grains with lukewarm water.
Return the grains to the jar with 100 ml of fresh milk and let them rest for another 24 hours.
Repeat this process daily for 5-7 days. Gradually increase the amount of milk to 200 ml as the grains grow. Once the liquid smells sour, thickens, and possibly forms bubbles, the grains are active.
The grains are now ready for kefir production.
Step 2: Making Milk Kefir
Once your grains are active
Place the activated kefir grains in a jar and add 600 ml of milk. Screw the Grow lid onto the jar and set it to "open" so that air can circulate and fermentation can proceed optimally.
Leave the mixture to stand at room temperature for 24 hours.
Pour the finished milk kefir through the integrated sieve in the lid into another jar. Your milk kefir will have a slightly thick consistency due to fermentation and is now ready to consume. If you want to enjoy it later, you can store it airtight in the refrigerator with the regular lid for approx. 1 week.
Tip: If you like it even sourer or thicker, you can ferment milk kefir for up to 48 hours before straining the grains.You can immediately start a new fermentation with the kefir grains by combining them with fresh milk (600 ml). Re-activation of the grains is not necessary.
Storing Milk Kefir Grains
If you don't want to make new kefir milk right away, you can store your kefir grains in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks. Gently rinse them with lukewarm water and place them in a jar with 100 ml of milk, seal it airtight, and store it in the refrigerator.
Frequent Questions about Milk Kefir
What do I do with the grains if I want to take a break?
You can store them in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks: Simply rinse with lukewarm water, place in a jar with 100 ml of milk, and seal airtight.
Can I also use plant-based milk?
Milk kefir can also be made with plant-based milk, such as soy, almond, oat, or coconut milk. However, it is important to note that kefir grains need animal milk for their health and reproduction. Plant-based milk only works to a limited extent – for example, in combination with dates or with regular return to cow's milk. Therefore, many recommend fermenting the grains regularly, at the latest every 2-3 cycles, back in animal milk to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.
For completely vegan fermentation, we recommend Water Kefir or the Turmeric Bug.
What is the difference between activation and preparation?
Activation is a one-time step to revive dried grains. After that, you can continue the milk kefir indefinitely & produce milk kefir – without new activation.
Recipe Ideas & Inspirations
Are you looking for delicious ways to enjoy your milk kefir or are you more interested in a plant-based, sparkling alternative? Then check out our blog posts on the topic. Here you will find creative and healthy recipes with your favorite ferment.
