Duonos Gira (Lithuanian Rye Drink)
Duonos gira is the Lithuanian take on kvass, a lightly fermented drink made from dark rye bread soaked in hot water. The bread gives it a toasty, malty depth that you won't find in ordinary soft drinks, and a handful of raisins in each bottle adds a gentle sweetness. It contains little or no alcohol, is served cold in summer, and can be warmed in winter.
Instructions
Cut the dried rye bread into cubes and place them in a large pot or container. Bring the water to a boil and pour it over the bread, then leave it to soak for 24 hours.
Strain the liquid into a clean container and keep it, discarding the soaked bread. Stir the yeast and the sugar into the liquid, leaving out the sugar if you prefer a less sweet drink.
Cover the container and keep it in a warm place for 48 hours so the mixture can ferment.
Pour the liquid into bottles and add the raisins, or another dried fruit if you like. Close the bottles tightly.
The drink is now ready to serve. Keep the bottles in a cool place for up to 2 months, and serve the gira chilled in summer or heated in winter.
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