The History of Milk Kefir
Where do Kefir grains come from?
The history of milk kefir was initially part of a legend and a bit mysterious, too. People living on the northern slopes of the Caucasian Mountains believe that Muhammad, the Great Prophet, gave kefir grains to the Orthodox people and showed them how to make kefir. They guarded the grains and the knowledge given to them by the Prophet for fear of losing their strength. The kefir grains became the families and the tribe’s wealth, and the uses and techniques of preparation were passed down to future generations only.
What is Milk Kefir?
Kefir is a milk product generated by milking goats, cows, and sheep as well. People made kefir in sacks made of animal skin. The bags were kept so that they encountered direct sunlight, which helped in the fermenting process of the milk. In the evening, the sacks were carried back home and hung behind the doors so that people passing by would prod them with their hands or feet so that the content mixed well. Once they removed the kefir, they added more fresh milk to ensure the fermentation process continued. These people enjoyed kefir for many years. They believed that the beverage prepared with it had magical properties.
How did Kefir become well-known all over the world?
However, around the 19th century, Russian doctors believed that kefir had excellent healing properties, like treating tuberculosis and other intestinal disorders, and published the first scientific research studies. In order to produce kefir grains, it was urgently necessary to find a reliable source, as this unique food was being used for treating ailing patients. The Blandov brothers owned a dairy in Moscow and properties in the Caucasus Mountains. They received instructions to collect the kefir grains for large-scale manufacturing in Moscow. Although it was not a straightforward process, finally, the grains were brought to Russia by princess Irina, and the first bottles of kefir drink were on sale in Moscow in 1908. People primarily consumed them for their medicinal value. In the 1930s, commercial production began in copious quantities.
Since the original method was not appropriate for large-scale manufacturing, scientific methods were used to obtain this healthy food. In the 1950s, VNIMI invented more straightforward ways, including fermentation, agitation, coagulation, ripening, and cooling in massive vessels. The Soviet Food Minister thanked Irina for bringing these valuable grains to Russia. Today, kefir is the most popularly used fermented milk in Russia. Today, Finland, Norway, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Russia, and other places such as the USA, West Germany, Canada, and Denmark commercially manufacture kefir.
What kefir grains look like and their health benefits
Kefir grains resemble small cauliflowers, much like wheat kernels. Leather sacks process them so that they naturally ferment. These grains contain innumerable gelatinous microorganisms and casein that are symbiotically grown together. Yeast is also present in the grains. These microorganisms are beneficial for health and make kefir so different from other milk products cultured in diverse ways. This self-carbonated beverage has probiotic properties and medicinal benefits, for which the effervescent drink is so popular worldwide. It contains high calcium, magnesium, vitamin B12, K2, enzymes, folate and biotin, and other unique nutrients that boost immunity, increase bone density, fight allergies, support detoxification, and improve lactose digestion.
Milk kefir grains are named differently in various places, like Kefir Yogurt, Snow Lotus, Kewra, The Grains of The Prophet Mohammad, Tibetan Mushroom, and Yogurt Plant, to name a few. Everyone enjoys this fantastic drink.
Milk kefir grains floating in raw milk
Where can you buy kefir grains?
Getting fresh kefir grains from a friend who is currently producing kefir at home is often the simplest method to obtain them. They can also be ordered online, but they must be transported quickly and placed directly in fresh milk upon delivery, or else they will become disturbed and perish owing to a lack of food.
Buy a Milk Kefir Starter Kit
The Milk Kefir Starter Kit Includes the following:
- You will receive one generous tablespoon of live, organic, nutritious milk kefir grains that will initially generate at least one to two cups of kefir per day and more as the grains multiply.
- The set includes four robust, culture-safe plastic strainers. It can easily hold and strain a quart or more. Made of plastic and fine nylon mesh, this milk and water kefir strainer is easy and culture-friendly. This strainer is safe to use in the dishwasher.
- You can use one Adhesive Jar Thermometer to monitor the brewing temperature of the kefir. No longer will you have to worry about contaminating your kitchen probe thermometers or performing several checks.
- Detailed step-by-step instructional PICTURE guide: all you need to know about caring for your kefir grains and preparing delicious kefir. Included are various flavorings, smoothies, Italian sodas, and handmade cream cheese recipes. We supply instructions along with the shipment notification, allowing you ample time to prepare the necessary components and supplies! This is a Step-by-Step Milk Kefir Guide.
This quantity of kefir grains will make 1-2 cups of excellent kefir daily and much more as the kefir grains multiply.
Notes: Upon arrival, the milk kefir may emit a solid yeasty and sour odor when the bag is opened; this sensation is due to the natural gas produced by the grains and is normal.
Shipping: Shipping starts at €6.99. We offer expedited shipping options.
