the caringkitchen

5 comments

1. 

   Michele F. · September 29, 2014 - 11:17 am · Reply→

   Hello, Sarah. Thank you for posting these instructions and discussion of scoby-making and kefir grains. I’m in Denver. I think Synergy brand unflavored raw kombucha will still make a scoby. It takes a long while and needs nursing along of course. I had one forming fairly well though, 2 weeks in, when a tiny insect flew in and I had to chuck the batch. The second batch is under way, this time in the oven and with better covering. Though willing to drive a good distance, I’m not finding kefir or scoby sharers locally; they seem to prefer sharing within their small, often remote, or far-flung mountain communities. My husband and I theorize that people are perhaps concerned about being sued by users claiming a culture caused illness. Have you tried water kefir grains as well? Did you finally purchase any cultures online? Thanks for the help.

   1. 

      sarahbensabat · October 2, 2014 - 5:21 pm · Reply→

      Hi Michele! Good luck to you. I’m sure you’ll be successful this time…just make sure the oven isn’t turned on accidentally! I don’t know about your theory, but you are in the States, so I guess being sued is more of a concern over there. I would argue that there are simply not that many people interested in brewing their own kombucha. I have tried the water kefir grains (after finally finding a local store that carries them), and they do produce a mild, sweet, lightly carbonated beverage. I have experimented a bit with kefiring other liquids (nut milk, soy milk) without too much success. The grains that I bought are available online, at http://www.culturesforhealth.com

2. 

   Dee · January 5, 2015 - 3:47 pm · Reply→

   Hi! How’s that emson smoker working out?
   Id love to have a cold smoker for cheese!

3. 

   Diane McCutcheon · February 19, 2015 - 9:06 am · Reply→

   Hi Sarah – I tried to email you but for some reason it didn’t open. I would like to try brewing my own kombucha & have been trying to find a scoby but have not been able to find kombucha for sale in any stores in my area (not a lot of health food stores in Park Extension). Are you still interested in donating a scoby?

   1. 

      sarahbensabat · February 19, 2015 - 11:31 am · Reply→

      Hi Diane- I’ve sent you an email.