Kefir

Kefir is a liquid yogurt from the Caucasus Mountains in the former Soviet Union.  It is made combining milk with "kefir grains;" a mixture of yeasts and lactobacillus bacteria. Kefir is a considered a probiotic food, meaning it is rich in healthy microbes. Scientists believe these microbes help boost the immune system, and fight many inflammatory diseases. Kefir has long been considered a health drink, and is credited with the longetivity of people in the Caucasus. It's consistency makes it great for smoothies.  We are using it in the kitchen to make healthy, low-fat, "creamy" salad dressings.