Kefir: Characteristics and How to Make It at Home

Kefir is a dairy product made by fermenting milk with beneficial bacteria and yeasts. Its flavor is similar to a mix of milk and ayran. Long consumed in European countries, kefir has become increasingly popular in Turkey in recent years. It is a tangy, fermented milk drink, and the home fermentation and storage conditions matter. Here is how to make and use kefir.

How kefir is used

Kefir can be enjoyed plain or in fruit blends. Its tangy flavor and pourable texture work well in drinks and cold sauces. It can be mixed with fruit for a drink or used in a cold sauce. Treat kefir as a beverage; people with chronic health conditions are advised to consult their doctor before changing their diet.

How to make kefir at home

Add kefir grains to room-temperature milk in a glass jar. Loosely cover the jar and leave it at room temperature for 18–24 hours. The milk should thicken slightly and develop a tangy smell. Cover the jar loosely with a glass or plastic lid, or cheesecloth; a metal lid may affect fermentation. When fermentation is complete, strain out the kefir grains with a plastic strainer and transfer the kefir to the refrigerator. The grains can be placed in a clean jar with fresh milk and reused. With proper care, the grains can continue producing kefir for years. A nonmetal strainer is preferred to help keep the grains intact.

How to store kefir

Ready-to-drink kefir can stay fresh for 7–10 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it becomes more sour over time. If you will not use the kefir grains, keep them in a small amount of milk in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze them for a longer break. Use a glass or plastic lid rather than a metal one, which may affect fermentation.

When and how much kefir should you drink?

An adult can drink one glass of kefir at any time of day; limit intake to no more than one glass per day. For children, serving size and frequency should be considered within their individual eating plan. Kefir can also be used in fruit smoothies, poured over granola, or used as a starter in tarhana and yeasted baked goods. Adding a few spoonfuls to salad dressing gives it a creamy texture and a mild tang.

What should you consider when drinking kefir?

You can balance kefir's tangy flavor by mixing it with different fruits. Adjust the amount to your preference. People who are sensitive to dairy products should consult their doctor before drinking kefir. Do not drink kefir that is excessively sour or has an unpleasant smell, as this may indicate that fermentation has gone wrong.