By Rajlakshmi
April 13, 2026
Water kefir, like kombucha and milk kefir, needs a SCOBY or symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast to be effectively cultured. Here is a quick recipe guide.
Water kefir grains, hydrated ¼ cup sugar Water, as needed Fresh fruit juice of your choice
Dissolve sugar in a tiny amount of hot water in a half-gallon glass jar.
Fill the remaining space in the jar with cool, filtered water. It has to be room temperature.
Incorporate the moistened water kefir grains. Cover with a towel, cheesecloth, or coffee filter and a rubber band.
Allow for 24-48 hours on the counter. After 48 hours, pour the liquid into another container after the water kefir grains have been strained.
Add more chilly water to the mixture, more sugar to dissolve it and the same kefir grains to begin the process again.
Add a few ounces of fruit juice, such as grape, pomegranate, apple, or cherry juice, to the water kefir you just filtered to make it carbonated.
Carefully cover the jars with an airtight lid and let them stand for an additional 1 to 3 days before drinking or storing.