In a glass jar, dissolve the sugar in the filtered water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
¼ cup white sugar, 4 cups filtered water
Add the water kefir grains to the sugar water mixture.
Water kefir grains
Add the dried fruit (if using). This will help feed the kefir grains.
¼ cup dried fruit
Cover the jar with a cloth or coffee filter and secure with a rubber band. This will allow the mixture to breathe while keeping out insects and dust.
Place the jar in a warm, dark spot in your kitchen. The optimal temperature for fermenting water kefir is between 68-85°F.
Allow the mixture to ferment for 24-48 hours. The longer you ferment, the more sour the taste will become.
After 24-48 hours, strain the liquid from the grains and dried fruit. This liquid is your finished water kefir.
Rinse the kefir grains with filtered water and place them back in the jar to start the process over again.
Add any desired flavorings to the finished water kefir, such as fruit, herbs, or spices.
Flavorings
Store the finished water kefir in the refrigerator until ready to drink.