Step 1

In a half gallon size glass jar, dissolve the sugar in a small amount of hot water. If you plan on making the full half gallon you will need ½ cup of sugar. If you are only filling the jar halfway then you only need ¼ cup of sugar.

Step 2

When the sugar is dissolved, fill the rest of the jar with cool filtered water and make sure the water is not warm. It must be at room temperature!

Step 3

Add the hydrated water kefir grains.

Step 4

Cover with a towel, cheesecloth, or coffee filter and rubber band to keep out insects and small children.

Step 5

Leave on the counter (preferably at 70-75°F) for 24-48 hours.

Step 6

After 48 hours, strain the water kefir grains through a bamboo or non-metal mesh strainer pouring the liquid into another container. I use a half gallon jar for the first process then strain into two quart size jars.

Step 7

Restart the process by dissolving more sugar in water, adding cool water, and adding the same kefir grains.

Step 8

To make the water kefir carbonated, pour a couple ounces of fruit juice such as grape, pomegranate, apple, or cherry into the water kefir you just strained. I don't recommend citrus for this part, as it makes stringy yeast-like things that are not tasty!

Step 9

Once you've added the juice, cover the jars tightly with an airtight lid and leave on the counter n additional 1-3 days before drinking or refrigerating.

Step 10

Repeat the process!