Beet Kvass
Traditional Beet Kvass Recipe
Ingredients:
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2–3 medium organic beets (peeled and chopped into chunks)
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1 Tbsp sea salt (non-iodized)
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Filtered water (enough to fill your jar)
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Optional: 1–2 cloves garlic or a slice of fresh ginger for flavor
Optional for faster fermentation:
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¼ cup whey (from yogurt or kefir) — optional but speeds up the process
Instructions:
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Prepare the beets – Wash, peel, and chop beets into 1-inch cubes. Do not grate them, as this can cause too rapid fermentation or alcohol production.
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Fill the jar – Place beets into a clean quart-size glass jar, filling about ⅓ to ½ full.
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Add salt and extras – Add 1 Tbsp sea salt and optional garlic or ginger. If using whey, add it now.
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Top with water – Pour filtered water into the jar, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
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Cover loosely – Use a lid, cloth with rubber band, or airlock lid. (If using a screw-top lid, “burp” daily to release pressure.)
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Ferment – Leave at room temperature (65–75°F) for 3–5 days. Taste after 3 days; it should be tangy, earthy, and slightly salty.
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Strain and store – Strain into a clean jar and refrigerate. Enjoy chilled! Will keep in the fridge for several weeks.
Tips:
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After the first batch, you can reuse the beet chunks for one more round — just add fresh saltwater (and whey, if desired).
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Beets turn soft and pale after a second use; compost or discard after that.