A kefir‐fermented beverage‐based Colocasia esculenta extract was developed with 5% and 10% kefir (FB5 and FB10). Six different processes were applied to obtain standard extract (SE) with reduced oxalate content. Centesimal composition, minerals analysis, colorimetric, and sensory profile were evaluated in FB5 and FB10. FB10 was bottled and stored (28 days) and was evaluated for pH, lactic acid bacteria (LAB), yeasts viable cell, and total phenolics. Treatment of raw yam by soaking in water for 24 hr was effective in oxalates reduction. C. esculenta extract proved to be a good substrate for kefir fermentation. FB5 and FB10 showed an appropriate pH (<4.5), an increased of minerals compared to SE, and had a low energy value. Non‐flavored and strawberry‐flavored beverages had good sensory acceptance (>6.5). FB10 had a LAB and yeast population of 107 CFUml−1 and shelf life was 21 days. FB10 is a food with probiotic and market potential. Practical applications Colocasia esculenta (Yam) is characterized by good acceptance, nutritional, and functional value and is used as an alternative to cow's milk. However, raw yam can contain antinutritional factors, especially oxalate. In this study, soaking of raw C. esculenta in water was effective to reduce oxalate content in the C. esculenta aqueous extract and maintained the desired characteristics of color and texture. This extract was used to develop a Kefir‐fermented beverage of C. esculenta. C. esculenta proved to be a good substrate for kefir in a short fermentation time and with effective growth of viable probiotic microorganisms. The beverage developed preserved probiotic potential during chilled storage, showed good sensory acceptance, and is a food with probiotic and market potential.

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