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Sabine Walter's avatar

I'd love to learn more about any type of fermented goodness! My problem is that I just got diagnosed with LPR / silent reflux. This means I need can't have anything with a ph under 5. 😱 I've got kombucha, kefir, lacto-fermented Jalopenoes, cauliflower,salsa, sauerkraut & sourdough...oh and beer! The only thing I can still have is the bread since it's 100% wholegrain. I wanted to learn to do miso next. I'm not sure if that's ok. I can also keep the tempeh we just finished off yesterday. But it's really frustrating. 😤 My son picked up my Jalopenoes, so at least they didn't go to waste. The scobi is on vacation right now, ans I haven't given up my milk kefir. What do you know about making Kefir from fake milks? I hate to buy those; to me they're UPFs.

Kirsten K. Shockey's avatar

Hi Sabine, Sorry to hear that. I learned about this condition a few months ago, when my (adult) son was tested for this. He didn't have it. How frustrating though for you, someone who clearly loves fermented foods. I think that you can make a very nice coconut kefir, which is still a whole food milk and has the protein that the kefir needs. If you try almond/oat/ rice milks you will likely end up with a watery and clumpy texture. Also since these are lower in the needed protein the grains will suffer over time. I know some people try using water kefir for the grain milks, but most give them a regular does of cow milk in between to keep them healthy.

It is my understanding though that coconut and soy are the best aligned with the needs of the grains.

I hope that helps!

Sabine Walter's avatar

So, should I make my own? I'm not a coconut fan, but homemade soymilk kefir might be okay. It does taste more "beany" than the store-bought stuff, but at least it wouldn't have any gums in it. I think I'll try that. I'll be making tempeh again this afternoon. Beans are soaked, Quinoa & chia gets added, and I've been using the silicone cups. That works so much better.

Kirsten K. Shockey's avatar

Perfect. I would definitely play around with making your own with your homemade soy milk. I think it will be delicious. I used to do it years ago. I can't recall exactly, but I think I also played around with mixing in a bit of canned coconut for extra creaminess. I always buy the ones without gums added.

Yum, I love the silicone cups, I agree so much better. The tempeh also seems happier without the plastic.