Pin A refreshing, lightly sparkling non-alcoholic drink made with homemade probiotic soda, fresh citrus, and herbs. Perfect for gut health and summer sipping.
I created this mocktail to enjoy a flavorful, healthy beverage that everyone in my family can drink together on warm days. It quickly became our favorite for picnics and afternoon snacks.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter), provides the base for fermentation
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g), fuels probiotic fermentation
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp, starter culture for probiotics
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml), adds brightness
- Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), for sweetness and vibrant color
- Fresh lime juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), for tartness
- Fresh mint leaves: 8, infuse herbal freshness
- Thin orange slices: 4, for garnish
- Ice cubes: as needed, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare probiotic base:
- In a clean glass jar, dissolve cane sugar in filtered water. Add water kefir grains or ginger bug and lemon juice. Stir gently with a non-metallic spoon.
- Ferment:
- Cover jar with 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 starter:
- Strain out kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for next batch.
- Mix flavors:
- In a pitcher, combine fermented soda base with orange juice, lime juice, and mint leaves. Stir gently.
- Serve:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour mocktail over, and garnish each with orange slice and extra mint if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for best fizz.
Pin This probiotic soda mocktail is a hit at our family brunches and even my kids love helping with the fermentation process. Sharing a pitcher with loved ones always brightens our summer afternoons.
Required Tools
You'll need 1 large glass jar, a non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses to make and serve this mocktail.
Allergen Information
This drink contains none of the major allergens. If using store-bought cultures, check for possible cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 60 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 0 g protein.
Pin Enjoy your probiotic soda mocktail fresh for the best fizz and flavor. Cheers to good health and delicious sipping!
Recipe FAQ
- → What gives this drink its probiotic quality?
The fermentation process with water kefir grains or ginger bug introduces beneficial probiotics for gut health.
- → Can I substitute ginger bug for water kefir grains?
Yes, ginger bug adds a slightly spicier note while providing similar fermentation and probiotic benefits.
- → Is this suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. All ingredients used are vegan and gluten-free, provided the fermentation cultures are free from allergens.
- → How is the flavor profile described?
Expect bright citrus notes, cooling mint, light sweetness, and a gentle fizz from natural fermentation.
- → What tools are required for preparation?
A large glass jar, non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses are needed for best results.
- → Can the sweetness be adjusted?
You can add more sugar or a splash of agave for extra sweetness. Honey works too but is not vegan.
- → Is there any allergen concern?
This drink contains no major allergens, but check store-bought cultures for possible cross-contamination.