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 first made this probiotic soda mocktail for a summer picnic and it was a hit with friends—even those skeptical of fermented drinks enjoyed the citrusy fizz!
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter)
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp
- 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 leaves
- Orange slices: 4 thin (for garnish)
- Ice cubes: To serve
Instructions
- Make probiotic base:
- In a clean glass jar, dissolve cane sugar in filtered water. Add water kefir grains or ginger bug and lemon juice. Stir with a non-metallic spoon.
- Start fermentation:
- Cover jar with a cloth or coffee filter held by a rubber band. Let ferment at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F) for 24–48 hours until fizzy and tangy.
- Strain culture:
- Strain out kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for next batch.
- Mix flavors:
- 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, and garnish with orange slices and extra mint.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for best fizz.
Pin Our family loves sipping these on warm afternoons in the garden—it's our go-to refreshing treat during summer.
Required Tools
1 large glass jar (at least 1 liter), non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, glasses
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. If using store-bought cultures, check for allergen cross contamination.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 60, Total Fat: 0 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 0 g
Pin Pour over ice and garnish just before serving—the fizz and freshness make every sip feel like a celebration.
Recipe FAQ
- → What probiotic base can I use?
Choose water kefir grains or ginger bug for a lightly fermented, gut-supporting base with gentle fizz.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Add more cane sugar, honey, or agave before serving to taste. Honey is not vegan, so opt for agave if needed.
- → How long does fermentation take?
Let the soda base ferment for 24–48 hours until it develops slight fizz and tang, testing to achieve desired flavor.
- → Are there major allergens?
This mocktail contains no major allergens, but confirm store-bought cultures are free from cross-contamination.
- → How should I serve this drink?
Pour over ice cubes, garnish with orange slices and mint, and serve immediately for maximum fizz and freshness.
- → Can I use alternative citrus?
Try lemon, grapefruit, or lime variations to personalize the mocktail’s flavor profile to your liking.