Pin Recipe 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 experimented with homemade probiotic soda to replace sugary store-bought drinks. This mocktail quickly became a favorite during weekend brunches with family.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter) for probiotic base
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g) dissolves easily for fermentation
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp for probiotic culture (see notes)
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml) adds brightness
- Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml) for flavoring
- Fresh lime juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml) for tangy twist
- Fresh mint leaves: 8 for aroma
- Thin orange slices: 4 for garnish
- Ice cubes: to serve
Instructions
- Prepare the probiotic base:
- In a clean glass jar, dissolve the cane sugar in filtered water. Add 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 discard cultures:
- Strain out the kefir grains or ginger bug and discard or reuse for your next batch.
- Flavor and mix:
- In a pitcher, combine the fermented soda with orange juice, lime juice, and mint leaves. Stir gently.
- Serve:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the mocktail over, and garnish with orange slices and extra mint if desired. Serve immediately for best fizz.
Pin Recipe We like to let everyone garnish their glass – kids love floating colorful citrus slices and extra mint.
Required Tools
Large glass jar, non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses are all you need for this mocktail.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains none of the major allergens. If using store-bought cultures, check labeling for cross-contamination risks.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately: 60 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 0 g protein.
Pin Recipe This mocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot afternoon or at festive gatherings. Cheers to your gut health.