Next, you might think you need real dairy to enjoy a rich, tangy probiotic drink. Today, I will teach you exactly how to make coconut kefir right on your kitchen counter. Then, you can enjoy a creamy drink that keeps your gut incredibly happy.
Also, this method gives you a perfect vegan milk kefir option without any complicated steps. Finally, you will discover how simple it is to ditch the store-bought bottles. Grab a glass of sweet tea, and let us get into this easy routine.
What You Need
First, you need to gather your simple ingredients. This cultured coconut milk recipe requires just three basic items.
- 1 quart of full-fat canned coconut milk: Choose a brand without heavy stabilizers or additives.
- 2 tablespoons of coconut milk kefir grains: You can buy these online or at local health stores.
- 1 teaspoon of raw sugar: This gives the live cultures the fuel they need.
Next, make sure you have your kitchen tools ready. Then, grab a clean 1-quart glass mason jar. Also, find a fine plastic or nylon mesh strainer. Finally, prepare a breathable cloth cover and a rubber band.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Fermentation
Step 1: Prep and Mix Your Milk
First, open your cans of coconut milk. Then, pour the milk into your glass jar. Next, you will notice the cream often sits at the top. Consequently, you must whisk the milk vigorously until it is smooth.
Also, you can use a blender for a quick mix. Afterward, add one teaspoon of raw sugar into the liquid. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely.
[Jar of Canned Coconut Milk] ➔ Add 1 tsp Raw Sugar ➔ Whisk Smooth
Step 2: Add the Fermentation Starter
Next, add your coconut milk kefir grains to the jar. Then, stir gently with a plastic or wooden spoon. Never use metal spoons because metal can react with the live cultures.
Furthermore, ensure the liquid is at room temperature before adding the grains. Hot milk will instantly kill your live cultures. Finally, tap the side of the jar to make sure the grains distribute evenly.
Step 3: Let the Fermenting Magic Happen
First, place your cloth cover over the top of the mason jar. Then, secure the cloth tightly with a rubber band. This cover keeps fruit flies out while letting gas escape safely.
Next, move the jar to a warm spot in your kitchen. Ideally, look for a dark pantry or a quiet corner of your counter. Then, let the mixture sit undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours. Soon, you will notice a pleasantly sour aroma.
Step 4: Strain and Store Your Batch
First, check the thickness of your liquid. Then, pour the fermented mixture through your plastic strainer into a clean bowl. Next, gently stir the liquid to help it pass through the fine mesh.
Also, save the leftover grains for your next batch immediately. Afterward, pour your finished dairy free kefir recipe into an airtight glass jar. Finally, place the jar directly into your refrigerator.
FAQs
Can you use regular milk kefir grains to make coconut kefir?
Yes, you can use traditional live milk kefir grains to ferment coconut milk. However, plant-based milks lack natural lactose sugars. Therefore, the grains will eventually lose their overall vitality. To keep them completely healthy, refresh them in real dairy milk after every few batches.
Why does my coconut milk kefir separate?
Separation into a thick cream layer on top and a watery whey layer at the bottom is completely normal. In fact, this happens with most non-dairy ferments. Simply shake the jar or whisk the liquid before drinking to recombine the layers perfectly.
Do I need to add sugar to make coconut milk kefir?
Yes, you must add about 1 teaspoon of raw sugar per quart. Because coconut milk does not provide natural lactose, the bacteria need this food source. Then, they can consume the sugar and convert the liquid into a nutrient-rich probiotic drink. Do not worry, you won’t taste the sugar later!
How long does homemade coconut kefir last in the fridge?
Once you strain and store your homemade coconut milk kefir in an airtight glass container, it lasts for 2 to 4 weeks. Then, it will continue to slowly ferment over time. Therefore, it will taste progressively more sour each week.
Evelyn’s Southern Kitchen Note: If you want a quick breakfast pairing, try serving this tangy drink alongside a slice of healthy chocolate yogurt cake
. Also, you can blend it into a refreshing almond banana avocado smoothie
for a morning boost. If you prefer a lighter fruit drink later in the day, check out this simple blueberry mocktail approach.
The Wrap-Up & Call to Action
First, learning how to make coconut kefir is a fantastic step toward a healthier lifestyle. Then, you can customize your flavor profile by adding vanilla or fresh berries after straining. Also, this simple process saves you money at the grocery store.
Next, make sure to save this post on your health board. Pin this image below for later reference! Finally, please leave a comment below to tell me how your first batch turned out.
Print
How to Make Coconut Kefir for a Creamy Probiotic Boost
- Total Time: 48 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Learn how to make coconut kefir using canned milk and grains. This dairy-free recipe delivers incredible coconut kefir benefits for your gut.
Ingredients
4 cups canned full-fat coconut milk
2 tbsp kefir grains
1 tsp raw sugar
Instructions
1. Whisk the coconut milk and sugar together in a glass jar until completely smooth.
2. Add the grains and stir gently with a wooden spoon.
3. Cover with a cloth and secure with a rubber band.
4. Ferment at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours.
5. Strain out the grains and refrigerate the liquid.
Notes
Shake well before drinking if separation occurs. Refresh grains in dairy milk if they lose energy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 48 hours
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Fermentation
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: how to make coconut kefir, vegan milk kefir