Kvas

Experience the refreshing taste of Kvas, a traditional Eastern European beverage made from rye bread, sugar, and raisins. Perfect for summer picnics or as a unique accompaniment to hearty meals.

• -17 °C rye bread
• 4 liters water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon yeast
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon salt

Method

1. 1

   Cut the rye bread into small cubes or slices and toast them in the oven until dark and crunchy.

2. 2

   In a large pot, combine the toasted rye bread and the filtered water. Let it steep for about 24 hours.

3. 3

   After 24 hours, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the bread solids.

4. 4

   Add sugar, yeast, honey, and salt to the strained liquid. Stir until everything is dissolved.

5. 5

   Add the raisins to the mixture and cover the pot with a clean cloth. Let it ferment at room temperature for 24 hours.

6. 6

   After fermentation, taste the kvas. If it's sweet enough for your liking, you can bottle it. If you prefer more fermentation, let it sit for another 12-24 hours.

7. 7

   Strain the kvas again to remove the raisins and any sediments, then pour it into clean bottles, leaving some space at the top.

8. 8

   Seal the bottles and refrigerate them. Enjoy your homemade kvas chilled, ideally within a week.