How to Make Kava Powder: Easy Step-by-Step Guide
All you botanical enthusiasts out there, before we begin telling you how to prepare Kava powder, know what Kava is. It is a traditional plant from the South Pacific, and has been valued for centuries as a social means to sip and socialize.
As you might have already guessed, the earthy roots of the plant Piper methysticum are ground down to create Kava powder. And in recent years, Kava in powdered form has been gaining popularity across the globe for its role in social spaces. So, aren’t you already curious about how to prepare Kava root powder at home? This guide walks you through simple, step-by-step methods to prepare Kava powder, whether you want the authentic traditional approach or a quick instant version.
How To Prepare Kava Root Powder Traditionally?
And if you are familiar with the botanical world, you'll likely agree that the rise of Kava bars and Kava, as a botanical when it's nearest to its natural state, that is in powdered form, is evident enough.
So let’s get into some traditional Kava making, an authentic experience worth trying! Yes, you may not have access to an authentic banana leaf or that ‘personally sewn’ Kava strainer bag by some village woman known for fine handcraftsmanship.
Not residing in a village? No issues, you can still know how to prepare Kava powder with your everyday materials around the house.
What You’ll Need?
Before you know how to prepare Kava root powder at home, you will have to gather these simple things:
- Kava root powder (2-4 tablespoons)
- A strainer bag, a muslin cloth, or cheesecloth
- A large bowl
- Cold or lukewarm water (2-3 cups)
- Cups or bowls ( or a coconut shell if you wish to go all traditional )
Directions:
- First, measure the Kava powder and place about 2-4 tablespoons of Kava root powder into your strainer bag or cloth.
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Now, we'll prepare the mixing bowl by filling it with 2-3 cups of cold or slightly warm water that does not mess with the alkaloid profile.
Tip: Use cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can alter Kavalcatones present in your Kava.
- Then, submerge the Kava bag, which is the strainer bag filled with Kava powder, into the water. Let it soak for a moment before you do anything further.
- Now, using both hands, massage and knead the Kava bag in the bowl for 5-10 minutes. This will cause the active compounds to release into the liquid, turning your water into a muddy brown shade.
- Once you are done kneading, squeeze the bag tightly to strain it entirely out of the fibre. Squeeze every last drop out and then set the leftover root fibers aside.
- For the last step, you gotta pour and serve, transferring the prepared Kava into cups or traditional coconut shells (if you prefer that). Take a breath, because it is all set to enjoy!
Tip: Keep your favorite fruit handy to have it after gulping Kava so that you can cleanse your palate.
How To Make Kava Root Powder Instantly?
Traditional is good, but sometimes you need quick access to your means of mood elevation [1]. So let’s see how to prepare Kava powder drink instantly.
Before you read ahead, let us inform you that this method would require instant kava powder, which in itself is designed for convenience and instant results.
What You’ll Need?
- Instant Kava powder
- A glass or a cup
- 1-2 cups of cold or lukewarm water
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A stirring spoon
Directions:
- Again, begin to measure the Instant Kava.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons into your cup or glass.
- Continue by adding water; about 1-2 cups of cold or slightly lukewarm water would do.
- Stir well with the spoon until the powder is fully dissolved. ( yes, it’s processed to allow you to be free of tedious steps like kneading or straining, you don’t have to!)
- Adjust the quantities. Add more water or a little more powder if your drink feels too strong or too light, as per your preference.
- Your Kava drink is ready to enjoy, so serve without any wait!
Difference Between Traditional And Instant Methods to Prepare Kava Powder
Traditional Kava Powder: This one comes from ground Kava root, and therefore is authentic, as it has been used for centuries. This one is used in the traditional method of Kava powder preparation.
Instant Kava Powder: This one is processed to dissolve effortlessly. All you have to do is just stir and drink, making it quick and convenient. Designed to offer convenience, this product provides a quick solution for preparing Kava root powder.
Which Of The Ways Is Recommended And Why?
The traditional method is often recommended if you want to learn how to prepare Kava powder drink using Kava and have an authentic experience. This method utilizes powder extracted directly from roots, ensuring you prepare Kava as it has been for generations. After all, what is a little botanical prep without all that earthy character, right?
The Instant method is better suited for seeking comfort and is ideal for beginners and travelers. So, if you're one of these, it makes sense to save time while still enjoying Kava.
Or Try A Mitra9 Kava Gopak Instead!
If you would rather skip the traditional prep and you aren’t a ‘get it from scratch’ person? Drop the grind and offer yourself something that might provide you relaxation [2] or may soothe your senses [3]. How? By getting your hands on a Kava Gopaks from Mitra9! A drink mix that is all about the goodness of Kava without all the root rubble? Yes, please.
So make it a mission with Mitra9 to ease into your mornings without those microscopic measures and all the messy spills. Our Gopaks are fancy without the fuzz, working in your favor, through and through. So the next time you contemplate how to prepare Kava powder, know that an all set potion awaits you already!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the other methods to prepare Kava powder?
Other methods when it comes to ‘how to prepare Kava powder’ are using a blender, a traditional Kava strainer, a cheesecloth, socks, etc.
What are other types of Kava powder?
Other types of Kava powders, aside from Traditional and Instant, include Micronized, which is super fine but slightly gritty, Noble, which is smoother and of higher quality, and Tudei, which is usually less recommended.
How to prepare Kava from powder?
Traditionally, put Kava powder in a strainer bag, then mix it with cold water, knead for 5–10 minutes, then strain, and it's done.
Can I use my Kava powder again after straining it?
Typically, Kava powder should be used once to obtain the best results. Why? As most of the active compounds are already extracted during the first kneading.
