Homemade Vegan Kefir Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups unsweetened coconut milk (or any other plant-based milk of your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons vegan kefir starter culture or 1/4 cup store-bought vegan kefir (as a starter)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, gently heat the plant-based milk over low heat until it reaches about 90-100°F (32-38°C). Avoid boiling the milk.
  2. Mix in the Starter: Once the milk is warmed, transfer it to a clean glass jar. Add the vegan kefir starter culture or store-bought vegan kefir to the jar and stir well to combine. If using, add the maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness.
  3. Ferment: Cover the jar with a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and secure it with a rubber band. Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours, depending on the desired level of tanginess. The longer it ferments, the tangier it will become.
  4. Check for Fermentation: After the fermentation period, give the kefir a gentle stir and taste it to check for desired flavor. It should have a tangy taste similar to yogurt.
  5. Strain (Optional): If desired, you can strain the kefir through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any lumps or grains. This step is optional and depends on personal preference.
  6. Chill and Serve: Once strained (if desired), transfer the kefir to a clean jar or container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to chill and thicken. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips:

  • Use a clean glass jar with a lid for fermenting the kefir.
  • Avoid using metal utensils or containers, as they can react with the kefir culture.
  • Experiment with different plant-based milks like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk to find your favorite flavor.
  • Store homemade vegan kefir in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Enjoy the probiotic goodness of homemade vegan kefir as a refreshing drink or use it in smoothies, dressings, or other recipes!

Benefits of Homemade Vegan Kefir:

  1. Probiotic Powerhouse: Vegan kefir is loaded with beneficial bacteria that promote gut health and digestion, supporting a healthy microbiome.
  2. Dairy-Free Alternative: Perfect for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, vegan kefir provides all the probiotic benefits without any dairy products.
  3. Nutrient-Rich: Made with plant-based milk, vegan kefir is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and well-being.
  4. Customizable: You can tailor the flavor of your vegan kefir by choosing different plant-based milks and experimenting with sweeteners and flavorings like maple syrup or agave nectar.
  5. Versatile Usage: Enjoy vegan kefir as a refreshing drink on its own, or use it in smoothies, salad dressings, marinades, or baked goods for added probiotic goodness.

Nutritive Value (Per Serving – Estimated):

  • Calories: 150
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 20mg
  • Calcium: 30% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Vitamin D: 25% of the DV
  • Vitamin B12: 50% of the DV
  • Iron: 4% of the DV

Enjoy the benefits of homemade vegan kefir as a delicious and nutritious addition to your plant-based diet!

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