Self-taught farmers confidently raising chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. Our focus is on practices that are environmentally harmonious and respectful to our livestock. We appreciate the beauty around us, clean eating, fermenting, and responsibly utilizing the bounty of the land. If you like thinking for yourself, continuous learning, and connecting with the homesteader lifestyle, check us out.
Figs and ferments just go hand in hand. Well, so does fig jam and fromage blanc on a raisin-rosemary crisp…but I digress. When I spied these fresh organic black figs at Trader Joe’s, I knew they were coming home with me, and that they’d be part of a very special live beverage.
Summer is water kefir weather. Those hard-working, gelatinous “grains” (actually a Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast) turn sugar water into a sparkling probiotic beverage. While a water kefir first ferment (1F) doesn’t have much personality, the second ferment (2F) is where the fun happens!
Continue reading “Kefir Madness: Pretty Plum and Gorgeous Grapefruit”
It’s another hot day here (in the 90’s), so refreshing beverages are in order. Today’s water kefir second ferments are luscious banana and sparkling kiwi. Refreshing and loaded with probiotics…and the flavor? Like drinking a fresh, creamy banana and a sweet/tart kiwi. Want to make some for yourself?
It’s hot here. Worse than the heat, the humidity is oppressive…it’s like a steamy blanket that envelops you as soon as you step out into it. When it’s this humid, it’s very easy to become overheated quickly because the body’s evaporative cooling system is less effective, so people who work outdoors (like farmers) can become dehydrated without even realizing it. Water is definitely a must on hot days, but I think the best – and arguably the tastiest – thirst quencher is probiotic water kefir!
Continue reading “Kefir Madness: Hot Weather Means Lots Of Water Kefir”
There’s a black mulberry tree growing up against the barn, and under proper conditions, its fruit is deep purple – almost black – and divine: sweet and juicy, with less tartness than a blackberry. It’s a real challenge to get to those berries before the birds (and bugs) do. This year, while the tree is loaded with immature fruit, the berries aren’t plump – in fact, some are like raisins.
Continue reading “Beneficial Beverages: Probiotic Mulberry Water Kefir”
You probably know that I’m constantly making water kefir. We love it! Aside from its probiotic payload, it just tastes great. I try to keep coming up with new flavors to keep it fresh and fun…today’s flavors are pine-lime-ginger and pineapple-coconut. You can make these yourself by using the recipes below! Continue reading “Kefir Madness: Something Green and Something Tropical”