6 Kefir Recipes for a Happy Gut

February 12, 2024

Courtesy of Walder Wellness

You know gut health is important, and you may already be incorporating yogurt into your diet for the probiotic benefits. Have you tried yogurt’s cousin, kefir? It’s sort of in between milk and yogurt texture-wise, and it’s made from milk and kefir grains, tiny, gelatinous white balls that are home to beneficial bacteria and yeast. Adding the kefir grains to the milk causes the fermentation process, and kefir is born. Just as yogurt fits well into recipes, so does kefir, so we gathered a collection of kefir recipes to get you started. From smoothies to savory dips, these kefir recipes are here to bring you a tasty dose of gut-healthy magic.

1. Kefir Chia Seed Pudding

Courtesy of Walder Wellness

Bring a little tang to your chia pudding – not to mention probiotic benefits – by using kefir instead of milk. Kefir has even more probiotic strains than yogurt, so you’ll be starting your day with a happy gut, too. Cinnamon and maple syrup add a touch of sweetness, and you can top it with fruit, nuts, or anything you like.

Try this recipe from Walder Wellness.

2. Kefir Smoothie

Courtesy of The Almond Eater

The classic banana-strawberry smoothie gets a glow-up with the addition of kefir. Since it’s slightly thicker than milk but not as thick as yogurt, it blends up beautifully with the fruit, some spinach, and flaxseed.

Try this recipe from The Almond Eater.

3. Kefir Ranch Dressing

Courtesy of Fit Mama Real Food

We’re of the opinion that ranch dressing is always a good idea, especially when it includes tangy kefir. With just a few pantry spices, you’ll have a dressing that beats bottled by a landslide. Use it on salads, or as a dip for chicken wings or to drizzle on pizza (it’s totally a thing).

Try this recipe from Fit Mama Real Food.

4. Kefir Tzatziki Dip

Courtesy of Yang’s Nourishing Kitchen

This creamy, herby dip featuring grated cucumber, lemon, and garlic is a Mediterranean favorite. Usually made with yogurt, tzatziki is just as tasty with a kefir base. Enjoy it with vegetables, or alongside roasted meat, or on top of a grain bowl.

Try this recipe from Yang’s Nourishing Kitchen.

5. Coriander Chicken Kebabs with Cilantro Kefir Sauce

Courtesy of Prepare and Nourish

Here’s another Mediterranean diet recipe, loaded with flavor, with kefir kicking in tang for both the chicken marinade and the simple sauce. You can bake or grill the chicken, depending in your preference.

Try this recipe from Prepare and Nourish.

6. Strawberry Kefir Ice Cream

Courtesy of Running to the Kitchen

If you love the slight tang of frozen yogurt, you’ll love kefir ice cream. With just 3 wholesome ingredients, this is a luscious, creamy dessert that loves you back.

Try this recipe from Running to the Kitchen.