What You'll Need
Instant kava powder, water, a glass or shaker bottle, and a spoon. That's it, no strainer bag or bowl required, since the fiber has already been removed during processing. Read more about how instant kava differs from other forms: Kava Forms Explained.
Step by Step
1. Measure your kava. A common starting ratio is 1 to 2 teaspoons of instant kava powder for every 200 to 250mL of water, though this varies by product, since instant kava concentration differs between brands. Check the specific product's label for its recommended serving.
2. Add water. Cold or room-temperature water works fine, there's no need to heat it. Pour it into your glass or shaker bottle.
3. Mix thoroughly. Stir vigorously with a spoon, or seal and shake if you're using a bottle, until the powder is evenly dissolved and no dry clumps remain.
4. Drink. Unlike traditional preparation, there's nothing left to strain out, instant kava is ready as soon as it's mixed.
Why It's Stronger Than It Looks
Because instant kava is already-extracted kava juice, dehydrated back into powder form, it tends to be more concentrated per gram than standard traditional or micronized powder, which still contains diluting root fiber. It's easy to underestimate this the first time, don't assume instant kava needs the same quantity as traditional-grind powder. See Kava Dosage Guide for more on serving sizes.
A Note on Flavour and Additions
Instant kava's taste is generally considered less palatable than traditionally prepared kava by some drinkers, since it's more concentrated and the flavour compounds are more pronounced. Mixing with a small amount of coconut water, milk, or juice is common and can help both the taste and, for fat-based additions, the extraction of certain compounds.
