Kvas
Kvas (sometimes spelled kvass) is a traditional fermented beverage most commonly found in Russia, Ukraine, and other Eastern European countries. It’s typically made from rye bread or barley bread, which gives it a slightly malty, tangy flavor.Here are some key points about it:Main ingredients: Bread (usually dark rye), water, sugar (or honey), and yeast.Fermentation: It’s a low-alcohol drink — usually under 1–2% ABV — created via natural fermentation.Flavors: Sometimes fruits (like berries or apples), herbs, or mint are added for extra flavor.Tradition: It’s often enjoyed chilled in summer, especially as a refreshing, mildly sweet drink.
Ingredients
- 250 g dark rye bread about 1/4 loaf, (stale or lightly dried is best)
- 2 L water
- 100 g sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast (or a small piece of sourdough starter for a more traditional approach)
Instructions
Prepare the bread:
- Slice the rye bread thinly and toast it in the oven at 180°C / 350°F until dark brown (but not burnt). This toasting deepens the flavor and gives that signature color.
Make the brew:
- Bring the 2 liters of water to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Add the toasted bread to the hot water and let it steep (like tea) for 4–6 hours, or until the liquid cools to room temperature.
Strain the mixture:
- Pour the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine strainer to remove bread pieces.
- Stir in sugar until dissolved.
Ferment:
- Once the liquid is lukewarm (around 25–30°C / 77–86°F), add the yeast.
- Optionally, drop in a few raisins (they help indicate fermentation when they float).
- Cover with a clean cloth and leave it at room temperature for 12–24 hours, depending on how tangy and fizzy you like it.
Bottle and chill:
- Strain again, pour into clean bottles, and close tightly.
- Refrigerate for at least another 12 hours to develop fizz and stop fermentation.
Serving:
- Serve cold, with or without the raisins. Kvass pairs beautifully with hearty Slavic dishes, boiled potatoes, or as a cool summer drink by itself.
Disclaimer
Some parts of recipe maybe AI-generated.
Nutrition
Calories: 263kcal (13%)Carbohydrates: 56g (19%)Protein: 6g (12%)Fat: 2g (3%)Saturated Fat: 0.4g (3%)Polyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 403mg (18%)Potassium: 119mg (3%)Fiber: 4g (17%)Sugar: 27g (30%)Vitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 61mg (6%)Iron: 2mg (11%)
Disclaimer
Nutritional information for this recipe is an approximation and is not to be construed as medical advice.
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