Kifer

We had a great day planting yesterday. Ed's parents were digging up their back garden to put other things there, and we were there to take what they didn't need anymore. About 60 strawberry plants, a 5 gallon pail of horse radish roots, 6 raspberry plants, several seedums, Iris flowers, chocolate mint and rhubarb! It took the whole day to get them in.

Last week, we talked about Kombucha and had great responses and questions about it. And we still have 3 left we can sell yet before we have to wait for more to grow. We would like to talk about Kifer this week.

Kifer can be made from milk, water, coconut water along with other varieties of milk, such as soy, rice or almond. Our favorite is the water kifer that has been fermented with mango. Very tasty!! Here are some of the health benefits and how to make it.

Kefir is a cultured, enzyme-rich food filled with friendly micro-organisms that help balance your "inner ecosystem." More nutritious and therapeutic than yogurt, it supplies complete protein, essential minerals, and valuable B vitamins. Easily digested, it cleanses the intestines, provides beneficial bacteria and yeast, vitamins and minerals, and complete proteins. Because kefir is such a balanced and nourishing food, it contributes to a healthy immune system and has been used to help patients suffering from AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, herpes, and cancer. Its tranquilizing effect on the nervous system has benefited many who suffer from sleep disorders, depression, and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

According to most experts the regular use of kefir can help relieve all intestinal disorders, promote bowel movement, reduce flatulence and create a healthier digestive system. In addition, its cleansing effect on the whole body helps to establish optimum health and longevity.

Kefir can also help eliminate unhealthy food cravings by making the body more nourished and balanced, because of its excellent nutritional content.

To make kifer, you need about 1/4 cup of what is called the grains. It is the starter culture you need to ferment the liquid. If you're making milk kifer, you just add 1 quart of milk to the 1/4 cup of grains. Make sure you use a glass jar. Once you mix the two together, just place a cloth over the lid and secure it with a rubber band. Let is sit for 2 or 3 days and then strain the liquid off and enjoy! It will last in the refrigerator for several weeks.
To make the water kifer, you just mix 1/4 cup of the kifer grains, with 1 quart of water, coconut water, etc, and 1/3 cup of sugar. You can then experiment with dried fruits, there are some that are not good to use because they will actually destroy the kifer grains. Click on the link we posted, it lists the fruits you can and can not use. As with the milk kifer, make sure you use a glass jar. Cover it with a cloth and secure it with a rubber band. Let it sit for 3 days on your counter top, strain the grains out, and enjoy.

There are several combinations you can use for flavors, and different recipes. We have included a link for more information. http://www.kefir.net/intro.htm

If you wish to start your own kifer, we do have grains available for purchase. Please e-mail us at pineandprairietradingpost@yahoo.com

Well, off to enjoy a glass of kifer ourselves! Hope you have a happy and healthy day.
As always, we appreciate your time.
~Amy and Ed