Save to Pinterest A refreshing, lightly sparkling non-alcoholic drink made with homemade probiotic soda, fresh citrus, and herbs. Perfect for gut health and summer sipping.
I started making probiotic sodas last summer. They are fun to craft and always impress guests with their natural fizz and bright flavor.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter)
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp (see notes)
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Fresh lime juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Fresh mint leaves: 8
- Thin orange slices: 4, for garnish
- Ice cubes: to serve
Instructions
- Prepare the probiotic base:
- In a clean glass jar, dissolve cane sugar in filtered water. Add the water kefir grains or ginger bug and lemon juice. Stir gently with a non-metallic spoon.
- Ferment the soda:
- Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or coffee filter secured with a rubber band. Let ferment at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F) for 24–48 hours, until slightly fizzy and tangy.
- Strain and reuse cultures:
- Strain out the kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or save for your next batch.
- Add flavorings:
- In a pitcher, combine the fermented soda base with orange juice, lime juice, and mint leaves. Stir gently.
- Serve:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the mocktail over, and garnish each with a slice of orange and extra mint if desired. Serve immediately for best fizz.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping squeeze citrus and watching the fizz form. It's become our special sunny day tradition.
Required Tools
Large glass jar (at least 1 liter), non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, glasses
Allergen Information
This mocktail contains no major allergens. Check store-bought fermentation cultures for possible cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 60 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 0 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This probiotic mocktail brings sparkle, flavor, and gut goodness to any gathering. Enjoy right after mixing for the freshest fizz.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ginger bug for kefir grains?
Yes, ginger bug offers a similar probiotic effect and brings a slightly spicy note to the drink.
- → How long does fermentation take?
Fermentation requires 24 to 48 hours for optimal fizz and tangy flavor. Check daily for desired bubbles.
- → Is this suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! All ingredients are vegan-friendly. Use agave instead of honey for added sweetness if desired.
- → What’s the best way to serve?
Pour over plenty of ice, garnish with mint and orange slices. Serve immediately for maximum sparkle.
- → Which utensils should I use?
Always use non-metallic utensils and strainers to preserve the integrity of fermenting cultures.
- → Are there known allergens?
This drink contains no major allergens, but check store-bought probiotic cultures’ labels if using them.