We’ve all heard about the probiotic drink Kombucha and also Water Kefir by now, and Kvass has also started gaining popularity, popping up on health food store shelves. But have you heard of Rejuvelac? Like the drinks mentioned, Rejuvelac is packed with probiotic and nutrients, but it’s even simpler to make—requiring no SCOBY or kefir grains. All you need are filtered water and your choice of grains, and it involves minimal hands-on time.

Rejuvelac has a tangy, lemony taste that may take some getting used to, but it’s a powerhouse for gut health. It contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bifidus, and lactic acid, the same beneficial bacteria commonly found in probiotic supplements. Some people turn to Rejuvelac as a more budget-friendly, homemade alternative to store-bought probiotic. It’s also known for its digestive benefits, thanks to amino acids that aid in digestion.

Rejuvelac is often used as a base for dressings, dips, soups, and stews, and it’s a popular starter for making nut and seed cheeses. Some even claim it supports detoxification. If you’re looking for an easy, nutrient-packed probiotic drink, give Rejuvelac a try!

Rejuvelac

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of whole grain of your choice (wheat berries, rye berries, quinoa)
• 3 cups of filtered water
• (+4 cups of filtered water for the later stage.)

Instructions:

• Rinse the grains, place in a mason jar and add the water
• Cover with a cloth and soak at least overnight
• Drain and rinse the grains, then allow to germinate
• Rinse twice/day and allow to sprout, until they grown “tails”
• Fill a clean jar with the grains and 4 cups of filtered water and cover with a cloth
• Allow to ferment until it becomes cloudy and fizzy (Usually 48 hours)
• Strain out and toss the berries, keep the liquid in the fridge up to a month.

Notes:

• Use a cool dark spot for your fermentation. Fermentation time speeds ups in the summer, when the weather is warmer.
• Fermentation time is the same for all berries.
• Source organic grains. To avoid chemicals.
• Add a squeeze of lemon to add flavor and a natural preservative.