What are water kefir grains?

Bacteria such as lactobacillus hilgardii and pediococcus combine with yeasts to form small clear crystal-like grains known as water kefir grains. Users typically refer to the grains as a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeasts or SCOBY.

Water kefir, a beverage that is rich in gut-friendly bacteria, can be brewed by placing the grains in a glass jar. Dissolve sugar in boiling water, allow it to cool and add to the jar of grains. Place the jar's lid loosely on the jar and leave it on the counter to ferment for approximately three days. Strain the mixture through a non-reactive strainer and reserve the grains to use again.