Blueberry Water Kefir

Water Kefir Grains: amzn.to/2rdfcjz
1 Gallon Glass Jug: amzn.to/2sizAxp
Rubber Stoppers for 1 gallon jug: amzn.to/2rnyQpn
KITCHEN and COOKING ITEMS I USE:
Country Living Grain Mill: amzn.to/2mStK6m
Solavore Solar Oven: www.solavore.com/#_a_heidi
Stovetec Rocket Stove: amzn.to/2r8ZJQX
Correlle Dishes: amzn.to/2oeYOZL
Nesco Dehydrator: amzn.to/2or8Mc0
Nesco Hot Plate(Burner): amzn.to/2nIkRg8
Oster Toaster Oven: amzn.to/2r01Jub
Oval Graniteware Pan: amzn.to/2nzlbuk
Manual Mixer/Egg Beater: amzn.to/2oCjC1E
Cuisinart Stick Blender: amzn.to/2n44dY0
Brake Bleeder: amzn.to/2oep0Z9
Food Saver Vacuum Lids: amzn.to/2mSi57C
Manual Food Processor: amzn.to/2njCk9v
Cast Iron Square Pan: amzn.to/2oc4qbg
Cast Iron Bread Pan: amzn.to/2nDnj5D
Victoria 6.5" Cast Iron Skillet: amzn.to/2oC7XMy
Lodge 10” Cast Iron Skillet: amzn.to/2oegOYE
Lodge Cast Iron Pizza Pan: amzn.to/2oeei4J
8.5 oz swing top bottles: amzn.to/2oeDoAs
1 liter swing top bottles: amzn.to/2nPj8Ey
FOODS and HERBS:
Rooibos Tea: amzn.to/2piTHNb
Redmond Real Salt: amzn.to/2mSoSOB
Nutiva Refined Coconut Oil: amzn.to/2nIjD4o
Coconut Aminos: amzn.to/2oCmWcV
Organic Coconut Sugar: amzn.to/2nOUns5
Cacao Butter: amzn.to/2oevlni
Cacao Powder: amzn.to/2oer6bl
Organic Cane Sugar: amzn.to/2oerzKD
Arrow Root Powder (organic): amzn.to/2oBYrcm
Tapioca Starch (organic): amzn.to/2oC6aa9
Sliced Dehydrated Garlic: amzn.to/2p0FK54
Dehydrated Onion: amzn.to/2p0u95Y
Avocado Oil: amzn.to/2oCd6UR
Valerian Root: amzn.to/2oeoD0x
Moringa: amzn.to/2nyYyWF
Turmeric: amzn.to/2njBLN7
Licorice Root: amzn.to/2nza9oC
Organic Ground Cloves: amzn.to/2nzbhsx
Organic Whole Cloves: amzn.to/2nDhbKK
Cayenne Pepper: amzn.to/2oerKp2
Ceylon Cinnamon: amzn.to/2oeks4H
Ceylon Cinnamon Sticks: amzn.to/2njBeuv
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NOTE: I am NOT a doctor nor pretend to be one. Nothing I say should be used to replace professional medical counseling! Also, PLEASE do your OWN research!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Links to kefir grains, gallons jugs, and rubber stoppers: Water Kefir Grains: amzn.to/2rdfcjz 1 Gallon Glass Jug: amzn.to/2sizAxp Rubber Stoppers for 1 gallon jug: amzn.to/2rnyQpn

[@bdoyle9881]

Heidi,.. when you first made your kefir did you use just a quart jar ?

[@Brandyelyse]

Raisins make a Dr. Pepper flavor.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

You know, I had not thought of that until you said that, now I am going to make a raisin soda next! :D

[@redlady935]

Good tip...thanks

[@zodiatube]

Hmm... Interesting. I'll have to try that. If you're lying, I'll find you.

[@bdoyle9881]

@@zodiatube THAT'S CUTE.. !

[@stephiefultz]

I just got my Kefir grains today I’m excited!! Thanks

[@teardrop1955]

I just ordered my water grains!! Thank You for all you do!!

[@trizhaay]

Love this video. Your instructions are the easiest to follow❤️

[@joyceparkes2678]

Wonderful tutorial thank you! Awaiting my water kefir grains in the mail😊

[@AZFarms]

I'm so trying this! Thank you for sharing!!!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Thank you for watching!

[@bethaspell1827]

Never have tried this before. I will now thank you

[@valeriewilson4400]

Thnx for the video, never thought of blending but I will now, nice to use the whole fruit especially with the cost of it.

[@rhondalandry5146]

Yum. Thank you! So glad I discovered your channel

[@lisabooker6405]

Wooooowhoooooo!!!! I've been waiting for THIS!! Thank YOU so much!! Love, hugs and Gods Blessings always, Lisa

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Thank you Lisa!

[@francoise-mariethein682]

great video , so much good advises. Thank You !

[@user-xm5yn1oh4h]

I made my first water kefir 2 days ago and now I'm trying blackberry kefir! Thanks Heidi

[@HomsteadingThePioneerWay]

I have heard about kefir but have not tried it but i love kombucha

[@DidemYufkayurek]

Thank YOU for sharing

[@michelleshomemade3285]

thank you I'm ordering these

[@jacquelinemanzano9328]

Thanks, I just ordered some new kefir grains from your link.

[@mymobilehomestead6242]

I always learn something new and very useful from you. Thank you so much for sharing. :)♡

[@sheilamore3261]

So very easy to follow thank you😁👍💕

[@kikidivyne]

Your videos are fantastic. Thank you so much. I am ordering my water kefir grain asap. I actually wanted to learn how to make my own probiotics. Thank you again

[@elishagabriell6529]

Thanks! This is the one I've been looking for! Yum!

[@heatherk167]

I’m excited! I received my grains from posemom. Last time I tried this I had dried grains. Didn’t go so well. But I’ve been working on fermenting recently and after watching your videos I feel more confident. I gave up sodas years ago. No desire for them but I do miss a little fizzy drink.

[@AnimeFiend176]

I have been watching quite a few of your videos recently and I am delurking for a moment to tell you that a) they're great and really inspiring, and b) I LOVE those little fairy lights along your wall! So pretty.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Thank you!

[@bpurly7775]

Thanks for the video. I bought some grains from Poseymom also.

[@troystutsman1400]

Hi I just found your channel from a referral on Traditional Homestead... I’m 56 and my wife is 52. My Mom lives with us so we can take care of her. We live in Northern Indiana, we don’t have our Homestead yet but hope to some day... We’re thinking of moving to the Southern Missouri area when the time comes. We try to live a frugal life, I’m a Disabled Veteran and our only income is from Social Security Disability so there’s not much to go around but we’re very blessed...! We dehydrate various foods and my wife cans. She used to make all of our bread but has gotten lax over the last couple of years, though she’ll tell you it’s because it’s cheaper to just purchase bread...lol We both enjoy learning new things and I like to make natural meds from herbs so I look forward to learning from your channel. Our dream is to own a small farm, living off-grid with our Daughter and two Grandsons living with us. Thanks for sharing with us...! Have a great day and be blessed.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Welcome to our channel! Hope you enjoy it! We are still land hunting ourselves but for now are doing all we can to be self sufficient and grow as much food as possible on our small 1/3 acre lot in town. We always seem to find more ways to make it work as we expand our gardens each year. Though goats or cows won't happen here, we do have our chickens and are pretty happy with that :D

[@jodunlap2955]

Heidi, I highly agree with the Posey Mom kefir grains. My first try at making kefir was highly successful with these grains. i followed your instructions to the letter and have been drinking fizzy delicious kefir for nearly 6 months wiyh my original grains. thanks for your help and clear, consise instructions. Love t and feel super, duper...

[@RainCountryHomestead]

So glad you like them and this has worked well for you. I have been drinking mine daily now using all types of different dried fruits and even my own grape juice from my garden grapes. SO good!

[@bdoyle9881]

Thanks Heidi! Ordered mine. Going to try water kefir I like the sparkling waters. But not soda! Loved cream soda as a kid so going with the vanilla first!

[@CarienDuPlooy1]

I always learn something new from you. I love your videos. Thank you so much. Made your basic joint & muscle rub with the cayenne infused avo oil. It is amazingly good stuff!! Thanks again :-)

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Wonderful! So glad you like it! I am always a bit concerned that some of things like that I share may not work for people. I wonder, "what if it is just me that this works for and this ends up being useless information to others". So I really appreciate hearing these kind of reports, :D

[@annotoole5864]

I think I will try this with the vanilla. I always liked cream soda as a kid....

[@fred3935]

Great video thanks

[@gypsycruiser]

God Bless You

[@BarefootInAK]

I'm going to do this asap! Thank you so very much 🤗

[@RainCountryHomestead]

You are so very welcome!

[@BarefootInAK]

I got some kefir starter last night at my local herbal store and am going to get started today! Thank you so much for ALL of your wonderful videos and helpful info! Hope you have a beautiful day!

[@decolonizeEverywhere]

the part about dissolving the sugar first is also because sugar is a bacterial inhibitor (why it never goes bad) and will actually burn your kefir grains when it is undiluted. i'm sure the short period before you add your water isn't enough to harm your very active grains, but it does make a difference from what i have read.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Thank you Cheryl, I appreciate you sharing that!

[@AvalonWoodsHomestead]

Very excited to try this! I'm done with trying to find soda without so much sugar. I've been drinking Italian soda, but even it is too sweet. Thanks again:).

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Thank you Samantha :D

[@TheSunRiseKid]

I am so happy that I don’t mind the pulp the seeds and all that other stuff! When I make my spaghetti sauce I leave everything right in there!🙂

[@OilysHumbleHome]

I just ordered my Kefir! I have never tried this or Kombucha before so I will try this first and then try to make Kombucha next. ;)

[@kathyjotourtois]

great info ty again . hugs from michigan

[@annettefowler4704]

THANK YOU

[@chrisb5391]

I might like to try this. I'm not a fan of kombucha either. Thanks for sharing.

[@sheilamore3261]

🤣 and spilled them on the counter while I’m at it I just love that that was so funny you’re so easy to understand and step-by-step I just love it I had to subscribe to you because you’re easy to fall in thank you so much so very much😁👍💕

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Thank you Sheila!

[@QLH.U2bbers]

I need to start making this again. It was reproducing so fast, we couldn't continue, especially since I was favoring kombucha. lol I am glad you shared this and will have to try your recipe once I get new water kefir grains.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I read somewhere that the kefir grains are good for chickens, so I may consider just feeding my excess to them. I am sure they could benefit from the probiotics. I will see if the pups like them too.

[@QLH.U2bbers]

I do feed my dogs some of the extra milk kefir, milk kefir grains, and kombucha scoby. I have no chickens yet, but have offered some to friends that do have chickens. I also pour extra liquid into my compost bin. So I am sure the water kefir will have good chicken benefits. :) Ducks too!

[@playalongwithauntneny3925]

Hi, can I make like a orangeade from this water kefir? Would I just add fresh squeezed orange juice and do another ferment?

[@BelindaTN]

Oh and I am in LOVE with your newest skirt. The burgundy red, floral, looks like pale gray and taupe or brown. Sometimes my monitor makes the color look a little different. But whatever it is, I love it. (I always say that, every time I see a new one that you have made)

[@RainCountryHomestead]

That one is my new favorite now too :)

[@BelindaTN]

Oh me too, You out did yourself on that one.:o)

[@Minnesota_Mama_Bear]

Will have try it this summer. Have to suck it up & buy the grains. Couldn't justify the cost if I didn't like it...

[@aliciadavidson5005]

Yummmmm!!

[@allsmiles2938]

This sounds sooo good. I cant wait to make this! I've only had kombucha at 8$ a small glass jar of and My name is also Heidi :)

[@BelindaTN]

So excited to see this. I tried water kefir sometime back and never could get the grains to multiply. They just stayed the same. I eventually stopped 'feeding' them and taking care of them and just threw them out. I have seen where the grains are good for animals, like chickens. When I made mine, I made it with lemon or lime juice. The grandchildren loved it. It tasted like lemonade with bubbles. I have been thinking of trying it again, it's just I don't drink much of anything but water and some coffee early in the morning. Also, the kefir did give me some stomach issues. So, I could only drink a little. No doubt it was the probiotics and just need some time to get used to them. lol Maybe selling water kefir grains would something you could do. Water kefir is so good for those (like my grandson) that cannot have dairy. Do you drink your water kefir with meals? Or is it better to drink between meals.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I just drink it when I am in the mood, which is usually between meals, I never drink anything while eating anyway, which is always best for digestion.

[@milestephcampbell2052]

Thank you so much for this great video! Could one use frozen berries? ty

[@RainCountryHomestead]

You should be able to

[@debbiefockler9890]

My favorites are lemon ginger and grape. I’ve made cherry, beet root powder/ginger, and fresh blueberries. I’m thinking ground blueberries is a good idea. My kefir grains aren’t very plump though. I add a half of an egg shell to the grains for the minerals. They seem to like it.

[@NintCondition]

Add a pinch of pink or Celtic sea salt and a tiny drop of molasses and try a combo of regular white sugar and organic cane sugar and your water kefir babies will grow big and strong!

[@debbiefockler9890]

@@NintCondition I’ll try that. Thanks..

[@joanne4514]

@@debbiefockler9890 grains also love fig or dates. i sometimes add raisins too...i think they like change

[@ironrose888]

You could add molasses to the initial ferment and that will give you lots of minerals too. Adding some orange juice and ginger made a wonderful ginger beer.

[@wholesome123]

Heidi, I'm so excited! This belongs on the Grape Soda video, but here too, for my question. I mentioned the other day that I came across a small box of Organic Blackberries at the Healthy Store last week. The minute I laid eyes on them I could see you in the Rain Country Video on Blackberry Starter. You have another name for it, but I can't remember that right now. Back to my story... I made my starter exactly like you showed. I want to make the Quick Kimchi, but haven't found time this week. So last night, after 5-6 days of my feeding the starter, it was bubbling BIG TIME and there was no more room in the jar for me to feed it. 😱 Too late and too tired to make Kimchi ... what to do, what to do? In my mind, I saw Heidi making Grape Soda. I'm a city girl so don't have grape vines like you do but I did have a brand new bottle of Knudsen's Organic Concord Grape Juice 🍇 that I had bought to second ferment my Kombucha, which I make every two weeks. I thought about everything you said in the Grape Soda Video and grabbed a half gallon Ball Jar and poured in 4 cups of the grape juice. I added 1/2 cup Starter plus a dribble, like you do, then filled the jar to the shoulder with Berkey filtered water. Put a lid on and went to bed thinking 🤔 I should have Soda in three days. Much to my surprise, when I came in the kitchen this morning there was a half inch of bubbles on the Grape Soda jar! I'm delighted! Now for my question. This video on Water Kefir, does it taste different from the Grape/Fruit Soda that you make? Does it have different health benefits? Are you selling any of your extra water Kefir grains yet? If so, how do I buy some? Thank you, thank you Heidi for all the wonderful things you share. I spend most evenings with you (I'm a widow and live alone) ... and you inspire me to keep trying in spite of my Hashimoto's. May God Bless you both richly.... ❤️

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Funny you mention blackberries because I just pulled more of them out of my freezer to make blackberry soda! For your fermentation starter, instead of feeding it every day, simply put it in the fridge and it will slow down and there will be no need to feed it more than once a week or so. I do not have enough kefir grains for me to start selling them yet, but I did post a link to the ones I bought in the description box. It may be a couple of months before I have enough to sell. I do not find a difference in taste really, and I would think the benefits would be very similar, however, it is always a good idea to mix up your probiotics for best results. I will probably stick with the kefir for making sodas now that I have it again, and use my fermentation starter for fermenting beets, kimchi, carrots and more. :) Than you for your kind words and being a part of this community here! :D

[@valerieescabi6104]

Hi Heidi, God is good all the time❤❤🙏🏻

[@danalewis5814]

This helped so much.. :) I'm going to add the blueberries to my kefir tomorrow for my second ferment. Thankyou for the fantastic tips. Quick Question.. what kind of tops are on your mason jars all around your kitchen counter?... it has your cane sugar etc in them... They have an awesome rustic look to them.. I love them.. Thanks again.. looking forward to more videos on your channel.. Have an AMAZING weekend :)

[@RainCountryHomestead]

They are all craft lids I purchased from amazon which I then line with melted beeswax to make hem food safe. Here are the links: *Wide Mouth Rustic Lids: amzn.to/2oeHbxP *Regular Mouth Rustic Mason Lids: amzn.to/2iBl4wc *Regular Mouth Bronze Mason Lids: amzn.to/2oeAICP

[@danalewis5814]

@@RainCountryHomestead yay.. Thankyou so much for responding! I will check it out.. I just love them! 👍🥰

[@ellenfisher6341]

Heidi, I know you don't usually measure your ingredients. But I noticed you put about 1 cap full of sugar to the jar. Did you use equal amt. of kefir grains?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

It was about a quarter cup, I don't go by the amount of the grains but the amount of the water so for that much water 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar is what I use.

[@theantiqueautistic6148]

going to check that out. like number 6

[@ellenfisher6341]

More questions on Kefir : do you reuse the water kefir grains & do you need the ones enriched with probiotics ? I am new to this, but really want to make my own healthy drinks.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Yes, you reuse the kefir grains, they will keep multiplying and I recently learned they are great to feed to chickens and dogs. Kefir grains are already probiotic, I have never heard of any specifically enriched with them. If you have a local health food store, you may be able to find some there but the ones I got on Amazon were cheaper than ones I have seen in the health food store we sometimes get to visit and they were very active and in great health from the moment I got them: amzn.to/2rdfcjz

[@DebbiesHomeplace]

Great video. Where do you get your vanilla beans at Heidi? Thanks for the video.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I would give the link but both of the ones I had bought are no longer available

[@DebbiesHomeplace]

@@RainCountryHomestead Thank you! I usually get them on Amazon.

[@evelyndenton4840]

I purchase flavored drinks at grocery, no calories , but flavored, do you think I can use it to make kefir instead of water, I can add sugar to feed the grains, do you think it would ferment ? Thanks for your answer.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

It would really depend on what is in them. I would not recommend anything that has artificial sweeteners but if it is stevia or other natural sweeteners it should be fine. Also pay close attention to any other ingredients that are in these flavored drinks. Such things are not only unhealthy, they can possibly kill the grains

[@PokerHillFarm]

I've done Kombucha for years but have never tried water Kiefer. I don't see your Amazon link to it- am I overlooking it? Thanks Heidi! Never mind I see it up at the top- Going to order now!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

The link is right at the top in the description box :)

[@stephanienuce7711]

Just grabbed my Frankincense resin for my gym alternative:) also I tried water kefir but I killed the grains b/c I let it go too long b/c I was trying to let it be less sweet.. what can I do to have water kefir but not sweet or VERY LIMITED sweetness? I am a kombucha person so I am having a time getting used to the kefir b/c of it's less sour but more sweet taste. Thx Hiedi!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I would just keep testing it. You can let it go another day, I have found there is very little sugar left on day two. That seems to be the right point before it starts to sour, but of course, this will vary depending on sugar used, the amount, and how warm the area is where it is stored. Hope that helps!

[@lindayang9415]

I fermented mine for 2 days and it still lightly sweet. So I waited 2 more days(total of 4 days) and it still lightly sweet no sourness or fizzness at all. Should I wait longer?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Did you feed a bit of sugar daily? If your house is cold, it may need more time, my blueberry ones sometimes take at least 5 days or more to really take off

[@britlynn7049]

All the time! God is Wonderful!! He is Great!! Amen! Thanks

[@Masterclassonlife]

Where would you find bottle caps for the gallon jugs? Where do you find gallon jugs? Do you eat dairy? What dairy replacements would you use?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Here are the links to the jugs and stoppers I use: 1 Gallon Glass Jug: amzn.to/2sizAxp Rubber Stoppers for 1 gallon jug: amzn.to/2rnyQpn Yes, I eat dairy though I did try being vegan for a short time. Nut milks are super easy to make plus they are better for you and less expensive than the store bought milks that often contain carrageenan - which is NOT for human consumption. I used to make my own "cheese" using agar agar, cashews, nutritional yeast, and a few other ingredients I no longer remember. You could also use beef gelatin in place of the agar agar if you are not vegan but just avoiding dairy

[@rebeccaulloa7774]

I want to try this. It took too long for me to make kombucha. Thanks

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I used to make kombucha, but to me it is not my favorite thing and water kefir is much more tasty

[@lisa-le2ou]

So, which type of kefir do you prefer, water or milk? I have only ever tried the milk kefir that I have bought at the store but I would like to start making my own. it would have to be cheaper.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I used to prefer milk kefir years ago but these days, water kefir is my favorite. The nice thing about milk kefir is you can also use it to make more of a yogurt or even a cheese but for some reason I have not cared for the taste of it like I once did. I am wondering if the milk kefir grain I have now are just different than the ones I had years ago

[@patdear80]

I use free range egg shell in my first ferment to add calcium too 😊

[@RainCountryHomestead]

The important thing to note about eggshells is that they also have magnesium and potassium. Three minerals that work best in conjunction with each other. I make an egg shell powder from my own chicken's eggs and will add it to tea, water, or juice when I feel I need more minerals.

[@elskebouma946]

Hi Heidi, I have another question haha... I am making water kefir but am not sure where to let it ferment. My kitchen doors are always open and we also have our windows open during nice weather. So I guess their is too much ‘colder’ wind in my kitchen. I now placed it in my living room in a book cabinet where it’s a bit darker and more of a stable temperature. Is that a good place to put it? Love, Elske

[@RainCountryHomestead]

That should work, I would think

[@elskebouma946]

Rain Country thank you! Sorry to bother you with another question but I can’t seem to find it on the internet. I bought my first waterkefir grains. I placed it in a glass jar in good quality water with brown cane sugar en white sugar. It’s in een darker place with good temperature but it doesn’t turn cloudy at all. What does this mean? Love, Elske

[@choff83005]

I make kombucha every week (5 days because my house is so hot). Want to put blueberries in and try it. Am thinking of trying the water kefir too if I decide to just keep drinking my plain kombucha, thank you for this :)

[@ale347baker]

Did you end up getting the kefir grains?

[@NICKYM26]

I have just one question, I am making Kefir Milk now, with fruit, but I have water Kefir grains coming and am excited to make the water Kefir, especially with your recipe of blueberries. so I just want to know is water Kefir as benificial as the milk Kefir. thank's for the wonderful video, Nicky in Cold Michigan

[@RainCountryHomestead]

From what I understand, though it does contain similar benefits, they are not as high as the milk kefir, still a healthy drink and great soda replacement

[@NICKYM26]

@@RainCountryHomestead thank's going to make it soon as I get my grains, Nicky

[@sebastianarielburd3119]

Hi thanks for the video, quick question to ask, why when I am making water kefir, it taste kinda of beer flavor instead of carbonated soda flavor? I dont know what I did wrong that every time I make water kefir leaving for 24 hours after my first fermentation, it tastes slightly kinda beer flavor. Even after adding berries for my second fermentation for 12-24 hours outside , still tastes kinda beer flavor instead of a good soda taste. thanks

[@RainCountryHomestead]

While it is normal for such things to take on an alcohol smell, I do not recall it ever smelling or tasting like beer.

[@elizabethpendleton3421]

Hi Heidi, do you have any water kefir grains for sale...I would love some. I have kombu change going constantly, but I'm looking for the other benefits.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I recently gave a bunch to a friend so I am not selling any yet. I will need to find the best way to package and send them out and I will likely post them on Etsy once I have it figured out and enough to sell :)

[@countrygalinthecity]

I just got my grains, very very tiny. I rehydrated them and just made my first batch...not very bubbly...tastes like sugar water is all, g happy with it

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Those dried ones can take a couple of runs to get active

[@vickiew8642]

cherry lime would be great.organic tart cherry juice would work, right? love! ginger anything.do want to try something soon.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Yes, you can ferment any juice that sounds good to you

[@Savannah26889]

I have a question. I just started rehydrating water kefir grains Sunday and replaced the sugar water base today.... but the grains are as mushy and tiny as sand. Is this normal? I followed culture for healths instructions to a T.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I am not sure how normal that is for being dehydrated, I think the first ones I bought were dehydrated but I cannot remember for sure, what I do know is those ones never got very healthy. The ones I got from Posey Mom were pretty good

[@countrygalinthecity]

How many times can you use the grains, and what do you do with them afterwards?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

As long as you can keep them alive, you can use them again and again. When I am not using them, I store in the fridge in water with some sugar and try to remember to feed occasionally

[@shellicooper4944]

@@RainCountryHomestead Do you ever rinse your grains before next use ?

[@Tinkerbell31326]

Hi Heidi, I have city water but I filter it through a Berkey water filter that also has the fluorine filter. Would it be ok to make lifer with this water?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Do you know if it takes out the chlorine, I cannot remember if they do. If they don't, then what you need to do is take your water, let it sit in a glass jar or jug with just a cloth over the top for three days to allow the chlorine to evaporate out. Then you can use it. That is what I used to do before we started collecting rain water and using he Berkey filters

[@Tinkerbell31326]

Rain Country I think it does take out chlorine. I will double check the list.

[@goldiehebrew4ever404]

hey there Heidi. Where do you get those big jars you use for rain water? btw I always get great comments about my skirt's 😊

[@RainCountryHomestead]

You can find the jugs in wine and beer making stores or even hardware stores that have a section for that. I managed to find some at garage sales since they are just old wine bottles. Here is a link: amzn.to/2sizAxp

[@goldiehebrew4ever404]

Rain Country thank you

[@pattihayden8100]

How long will the original kefir last? I’m excited to start this and get my grandsons off sodas

[@RainCountryHomestead]

It will last quite awhile in the fridge but if you do not drink it up in a 3-5 days, it may need to add a touch more sugar as it will keep consuming the sugar and when it is gone, it will eventually turn to wine.

[@baker142]

Hi! can I use one of my starters to make a new starter?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Though I have always just started fresh ones, you could certainly do that :)

[@shara4389]

@Rain Country - Heidi, I understand that if I want flavored kefir, that I ferment "plain" for up to 2 days (maybe 1, but likely 2), then strain off the grains, then add herbs, fruit, whatever flavor, then cap it and put it in the fridge. I've also heard horror stories of it literally blowing up from the fizzing in the tightly capped jar. Is there a safer way to do the second ferment. I figure Murphy will make sure mine blows up LOL! Hugs for your great videos - they so inspire me to be more independent at 60+!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I was never one to do a second ferment and I stopped making kefirs because I prefer my own homemade fermentation starter for making a healthy, fizzy drink. It is easy to keep up on, easy to make, virtually free to make (especially when using fruit scraps or herbs from the garden to make them) and they do not need a lot of fuss to keep them alive and active like the grains do.

[@shara4389]

@@RainCountryHomestead How does the fermentation starter for a fizzy drink differ from a kefir drink? Does it have as much probiotic benefit as the kefir? I'm trying to heal my leaky gut issues, and at least water kefir made with flavors sounds better than milk kefir to me (I really don't like sour tastes - I like all the others, but not sour). Thanks!

[@CookieCreamOreo]

@@RainCountryHomestead Thx for your videos. They’re very helpful. Do you have a video on your home fermentation starter? I would love to try it.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

@@CookieCreamOreo Here you go: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYqZfpSOeLGGeZo

[@booksandbeans]

Rabbi always says seedless is G-dless. I have been curious about the water keefir over the dairy keefer. Are they different grains? Again Heidi, I am running out of ways to tell you how much I have enjoyed this video,

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Yes, they are different, though very similar. I had read about the differences years ago but do not remember anymore what it was, I guess it is time to study up again!

[@QLH.U2bbers]

I could be wrong, but I think the milk kefir grains originally are harvested from the intestines of goat or cow, while water kefir grains are harvested from the mountain springs somewhere? And IF I remember correctly, the goats and cows had drank from the springs containing the water kefir grains which were gradually converted (maybe through their digestive fermentation?) into the milk kefir grains.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Interesting! I really need to go look it up again!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

This sounds very much like what I had read years ago, though I am sure it was on a different web page: www.nourishkefir.co.uk/what-is-nourish-kefir/where-do-kefir-grains-come-from/

[@lynnesuszek]

My grains are looking great but the water smells like cleaning fluid! What does this mean? I’m not happy with water kefir yet but I wanted to try it because milk kefir makes me gain weight after a while I have so much!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

It may depend on the water you are using or the type of sugar or if you are adding anything to it. I gave up on water kefir as I prefer my own way of making natural sodas: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKDTeq2qndeDqck

[@irinatsernikova3043]

My big bottle of kefir exploded... glasses all over house... almost kiil me.. ended up in emergency with few stitches... it was like a bomb, vety powerfull... i sugest never tight it

[@pattifoote1714]

Hi Heidi, can you and Mr Rain make a video on collecting rain water and filtering it. Also I just started making mild Kefir this week. Just had my first taste of it while I was watching this video. I added blueberries to it when I refrigerate it and some sugar. I want to add lots of probiotics to my body. I pray someday my husband will jump on board! Thanks God is good, always🙏🏻😊💚☘️

[@RainCountryHomestead]

What did think of the milk kefir? Sometimes I like it but sometimes it just is not my thing. I go back and forth a lot with it.

[@pattifoote1714]

Rain Country I’m liking the milk kefir, still figuring it out as to getting it thicker, my dog is also loving it. Water kefir will be next, have stopped having nightly cocktails and soda, water kefir would help there. Love to learn from your channel, thanks! hugs 💚☘️

[@gavinmatthews5618]

Could you use date syrup to feed the grain?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Likely you can but sugars too high in minerals can also make the grains sluggish. I find organic blonde can sugar does the best. I have used coconut sugar but it slows it down due to all the minerals in it

[@sebastianarielburd3119]

can u please what's the proportion of water and kefir grains? 2) if the grains keep multiplying and becoming bigger, what do u do? can I eat them? otherwise u need to increase more water every time the grains multiply? please advise, thanks

[@RainCountryHomestead]

If the grains double in size, you can either keep making the same size batch or you can double the batch. So if you start with about a Tablespoon of grains, you should be able to make a quart. If you have twice that many, you should be able to make a half gallon with them. You don't have to make that much though, it does not hurt them to continue to make a quart with a larger amount. If they get to be too many, you can eat them or feed them to chickens or whatever other pets you may have.

[@shara4389]

@Sebastian Ariel Burd - you can also dry them. Posey mom has instructions on her website. When you dry them, you can save them for later, or give them away at that point. You can also freeze them. Good website for care and feeding of the grains.

[@weetreebonsai]

tweeted

[@kleineroteHex]

I need to get me kefir grains again! mine died after they worked very well for me 😑

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Which brings to mind the other question that I have had and another person asked here: is it possible to make your own grains. I mean, we can make our own sourdough starters and fermentation starters, so why not the grains? I really need to look into it when I get a chance

[@kleineroteHex]

Rain Country that would be awesome!!!! I prefer the water grains, just because fresh and grassfed milk is expensive on a continuing basis. my grandsons always loved my "fizzy juice" !

[@archangelrevelations9532]

What is kefir good for?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

good source of probiotics and good for gut health

[@countrygalinthecity]

I topped off a jar of keifer water and put it in the fridge. I just took the jar out and the water is really thick...what's with that?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Sounds like it may have spoiled

[@douglasfapp9816]

Heidi can you please help me. My water kefir is not fizzing I used clean jar. Clean water. 1/4 cup organic sugar Waited two days. Pour it on a air tight bottle with some blueberries smush. Nothing happens after a day or two days.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

by clean water, what do you mean? Is it unchlorinated?

[@dellanira6327]

Can I use filtered water for this?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Yes, as long as the chlorine is at least removed

[@qualitylife5350]

That bottle jar have plastic lid isn’t it except the lock?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Yes, it is virtually impossible to get entirely away from plastics. They do have their place

[@patschline2266]

Can you use distilled water.?

[@blancairisrobles4373]

No; spring water is preferable.

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I would say you can and should have no issues, but yes, a good filtered spring, rain, or well water is best

[@kathleenzimmerman8227]

Will comment later because it's late... and ask questions, then. only because I am ALWAYS FULL of questions. LOL

[@RainCountryHomestead]

*gasp!* hahaha

[@lauradjordjevic1894]

Hi Heidi. I cannot tell wether my kefir worked or not. How can you tell

[@RainCountryHomestead]

It should be fizzy when it is done. If you put a tight lid on it and let it sit for another day, you will know for sure

[@WalterTonetto]

ouchhh

[@Sabinagirl164]

Where do you get your sugar from ? I am looking to buy dark brown sugar in bulk

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I buy the organic blonde cane sugar from Costco. Best price I have found anywhere. Then I just make my own brown sugar when needed by adding in molasses.

[@Sabinagirl164]

sorry one more question. where do you get the molasses from ?@@RainCountryHomestead

[@RainCountryHomestead]

@@Sabinagirl164 amzn.to/36JkYwR

[@sebastianburd]

That's why I asked what should be doing to fix it?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I have never dealt with that so I do not know what to tell you. A beer smell comes from true grains like spelt, wheat, and the like, but water kefir grains are not actually a grain so there is no reason for them to smell like beer

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Also, beer smell/taste comes from yeast but you say you are only leaving it for 24 hours, there is no reason why it should have that smell unless it was left for much longer than that.

[@juliedickson729]

Loved water kefir but grains finally died! Been thinking about getting more lately!

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I do not make it anymore, I went back to my old tried and true that does not require all that nursing along and constant feeding: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKDTeq2qndeDqck

[@stephenhogg6154]

Can you use the milk kefir grains to do this?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

Milk kefir grains need milk, this needs water kefir grains. While they are similar, they are also very different

[@stephenhogg6154]

@@RainCountryHomestead And yet, they both eat sugar. I don't imagine they can be that different. I'll let you know how I get on with milk kefir grains in water.

[@shara4389]

@@stephenhogg6154 how did your experiment go? Everything I've read says it either won't work or that the grains won't "live" long that way...

[@stephenhogg6154]

@@shara4389 You were right. For some reason the milk grains don’t work in water.

[@sgwoodward3017]

Wish I was your neighbor...... I'd rake leaves for a glass of that! LOL I wonder how watermelon would taste?

[@RainCountryHomestead]

I think watermelon would be wonderful! I need to try that soon!