How to Prepare Kava
Kava has been enjoyed for centuries as a traditional lifestyle drink that can enhance social and personal experiences. Some people prefer the traditional preparation, while others opt for a quick and easy instant mix. At Root & Pestle, we offer a diverse range of kava cultivars because everyone experiences kava differently. Explore our selection and tune in to what feels right for you.
Below, we’ll guide you through the two main ways to prepare kava — traditional and instant — so you can discover the best fit for your lifestyle.
Traditional preparation
Traditional kava is made by extracting the active compounds, known as kavalactones, from ground kava roots through a kneading and straining process. This method is based on how kava is traditionally consumed across Vanuatu, resulting in a smooth and authentic kava drink. Many people enjoy the hands-on preparation as part of the overall experience, finding it a calming ritual that enhances relaxation.
One of the key benefits of traditional kava is its silky-smooth texture and balanced kavalactone profile, which makes it perfect for a chilled kava session with your mates.
The traditional method fully strains the plant material, making it easy to digest. However, some kavalactones remain in the leftover root fibres, meaning a portion of the active compounds is left behind.
Here’s how to prepare kava the traditional way:
Step 1
Place approximately 35 g (1/3 cup) of our Traditional Grind Kava into one of our custom-designed strainer bags and place into a bowl. Add 600mL or 2 cups of room temperature water.
Step 3
Squeeze all the excess water out of the strainer bag.
Step 2
Tightly close the strainer bag and knead the kava well under water for 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 4
Serve in half-sized cups (referred to as shells in Vanuatu). Kava should be swallowed down in 1–2 quick gulps. Have a piece of fruit ready to cleanse the palate.
Malok.
Instant preparation
Instant kava is a dehydrated kava beverage that offers a fast and convenient way to enjoy kava without the need for straining or kneading. Our instant kava range is made by extracting the active kavalactones from noble kava roots and then dehydrating the liquid to create a fine powder that can easily be resuspended in water.
This makes it perfect for a quick pick-me-up. With no lengthy preparation required, it’s fantastic for a moment of relaxation or a social boost whenever needed. Simply mix and enjoy in seconds.
Here’s how to make kava instantly:
Step 1
Add approximately 8 g (1–2 tsps) to a glass.
Step 2
Pour in 1 cup of water, about 200mL.
STEP 3
Stir and enjoy.
Malok.
How Often Should You Drink Kava?
Each person requires a different amount of kava to feel and enjoy its effects. However, for the best experience, we recommend consuming kava on an empty stomach. Kava usually works best when taken this way and is traditionally consumed before the evening meal.
You can enjoy kava daily, but it may be beneficial to take a break occasionally. We recommend taking a day or two off each week and going a full week without kava every few months to maintain its effectiveness and ensure long-term balance.
If you’re unsure about how much to drink or have concerns about potential side effects, start with smaller amounts and gradually adjust to find what suits you best. Pay attention to how you feel and let your personal experience guide you.
The Kava Drinking Tradition
Drinking kava isn’t just about the effects — it’s also about the ritual. For some kava drinkers, it’s customary to say “Malok” before drinking, which is a gesture of respect and shared experience.
Kava is typically consumed in one quick gulp rather than sipped. This helps you avoid the earthy taste lingering for too long. After finishing, cleanse your palate with a chaser — this can be water, juice, a fizzy drink or even a small piece of fruit or candy.
Experience the Finest Noble Kava with Root & Pestle
Whether you’re looking for a quick mix or a traditional preparation, Root & Pestle offers 100% noble kava hand-selected from local farmers. Processed, tested and packaged at our facility on Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu, our kava ensures premium quality and variety. Explore our range and discover the perfect kava for your lifestyle.
FAQs
Do I need a strainer bag to make kava the traditional way?
Yes. A strainer bag is essential for traditional preparation because it helps separate the root fibres from the liquid. This makes your kava smooth, easier to drink and more enjoyable on the stomach. Our Kava Starter Kit comes with a custom-designed strainer bag to help you create authentic, high-quality kava with ease.
What type of bowl should I use to prepare kava?
You can use any medium to large food-grade mixing bowl that comfortably fits your strainer bag. Stainless steel or BPA-free plastic are both suitable options. Just ensure there’s enough room to knead the kava without spilling.
What is a kava shell, and why use one?
A kava shell is a traditional cup made from a polished half coconut shell, used for serving kava. It aligns with common serving practices in Vanuatu, where kava is consumed in small portions during preparation sessions.
Can I prepare kava without a kava whisk?
Yes. You can use a spoon or shaker bottle to mix instant kava, but a dedicated whisk makes it faster and more consistent. It’s especially useful if you drink kava often and want a smooth result every time.
How much water should I use with kava accessories?
The amount of water you will use depends on your method. For traditional kava, use around 600 mL of water for every 35 g of powder. For instant kava, about 200 mL is usually enough. Use your serving spoon or whisk to adjust consistency based on your preference.
Why is a serving spoon helpful when making kava?
A serving spoon gives you a consistent measure, especially for instant kava. It helps avoid over-scooping and makes it easier to follow the suggested serving size on the label.
Are Root & Pestle accessories compatible with all kava types?
Yes. Whether you’re learning how to prepare kava using the traditional method or want to know how to make kava in seconds, our accessories are designed to support both. They’re simple, durable and made to suit our full kava range.
What should I use to store my kava and accessories?
Keep your kava powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Accessories like strainers, whisks and spoons should be rinsed and air-dried after each use. This helps maintain hygiene and performance.
What’s the best way to clean my kava strainer bag?
After each use, rinse your kava strainer bag thoroughly under cold water to remove leftover fibres. Let it air-dry completely before storing. Avoid using soap, as residue may affect the taste of your next kava batch.
What’s the proper water temperature for people still learning how to prepare kava?
Use room temperature or cool water for both traditional and instant kava. Hot water can damage the active compounds in kava (kavalactones), which may reduce its effectiveness. Stick to non-heated water to preserve the noble kava root’s full effects.
