kefir & raw milk question

[binxsmom]

i have been making kefir with raw milk for quite a while. i always seem to have difficulty in separating the kefir from the milk fat in straining. what is the best way to do this. i always seem to end up with a TON of milk fat along with the grains. tia.

[openpollination]

I used to have that problem too! I make my kefir in pint jars with raw milk, and I put a plastic storage lid (the same one that goes on the jar of kefir in the fridge, for easier clean up) on the jar when it's at the consistency I like, and shake gently. It breaks up the top layer of milk fat, distributes it somewhat evenly, and make pouring a LOT easier. I use a metal fine mesh colander with a big bowl underneath, and a little bit of milk fat stays with the kefir grains, but I just scoop it up and put it back into the jar with the grains afterward.

I read that it's ok to shake kefir gently when the grains are still in it, and so far it's worked!

[binxsmom]

thanks. it seems like my kefir just keeps getting fatter and fatter. i'll try the shaking before straining.