Rejuvelac

Rejuvelac is a fermented tonic drink that can be made from a variety of grains or vegetables recommended as a digestive aid.

 

Rejuvelac: Ingredients Used and Preparation Overview

A wide variety of grains and vegetables are used to make Rejuvelac. Grains like wheat, rice, rye, barley, wheatgrass, quinoa, millet, buckwheat, bran, etc. can all be used to make varieties of Rejuvelac. The process of making the fermented Rejuvelac starts by selecting the grain or vegetable which is soaked to wash off dirt and debris. The whole wheat is then allowed to sprout by keeping the grains damp for two to three days. The grains  are washed 2-3 times a day to remove any microbial growth. Once the grains form sprouts that are 1-3mms in length, they are ready to be used. The sprouted grain is then allowed to soak overnight for 1-2 days. The water is then poured off and sweetened with sugar, molasses or honey to form the fizzy Rejuvelac. The same grains can be used to make a second batch by soaking them again in fresh water for 24 hours. Warmer temperature can speed up the fermentation process.

 

Rejuvelac: Serving and Drinking

Rejuvelac is served cold. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours but it can go sour quite quickly. Sweeteners like sugar, molasses and honey can be added according to taste. Lemon may also be added just before serving. Discard any solution which shows signs of blue, green, or black mold on it.

 

Popular Rejuvelac Variations

  • Champagne rejuvelac is prepared by using millet grains. The grains are sprouted for a day or two and then lightly bruised. These bruised grains are then soaked with one tablespoon of raisins. The mixture is allowed to ferment for 2-3 days. The mixture has to be tightly covered during the fermentation process to produce the bubbly effect of champagne. 
  • Rejuvelac wines are made by combining different types of grains with raisins and spices. For example, sassafras rejuvelac wine is made by fermenting sprouted wheat berries, organic raisins and sassafras bark. Rejuvelac Bordeaux wine is made by soaking wheat berries, organic raisins, and licorice sticks together.
  • Vegetable rejuvelac is made by soaking chopped vegetables like green or purple cabbage or carrots in water.

 

Rejuvelac Benefits: Health and Nutrition Facts

Rejuvelac contains a large amount of probiotic bacteria that are considered to be beneficial to the human body. Regular consumption of probiotic bacteria can soothe an irritated digestive system and even help to predigest food in the intestinal tract. The drink might also contain a large amount of vitamins and minerals along with phosphate, saccharines, enzymes and amylases.