Save A refreshing, lightly sparkling non-alcoholic drink made with homemade probiotic soda, fresh citrus, and herbs. Perfect for gut health and summer sipping.
Last summer, I made a batch of probiotic soda for a picnic. Everyone loved how light it tasted, and it paired perfectly with fresh fruit and salads. Ever since, it&s been my go-to mocktail for warm days.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter), serves as the base for fermentation
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g), food for fermenting cultures
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp, initiates fermentation (choose either)
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml), adds sparkle and freshness
- Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), brightens up the mocktail
- Fresh lime juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), gives zest and tang
- Fresh mint leaves: 8 leaves, for cooling flavor
- Thin orange slices: 4, for garnish
- Ice cubes: To serve, keeps it crisp
Instructions
- Prepare probiotic base:
- In a clean glass jar, dissolve cane sugar in filtered water. Add water kefir grains or ginger bug along with lemon juice. Stir gently using a non-metallic spoon.
- Ferment:
- 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 fizzy and tangy.
- Strain cultures:
- Strain out kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for the next batch.
- Add flavorings:
- In a pitcher, combine fermented soda base with orange juice, lime juice, and mint leaves. Stir gently.
- Assemble mocktail:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour mocktail over, and garnish with orange slice and mint.
- Serve:
- Enjoy immediately for best fizz.
Save My family loves sharing this mocktail when we get together on weekends. Younger kids enjoy the fizz without any added sugar drinks, and adults appreciate the healthy twist.
Required Tools
To make this recipe, you&ll need a large glass jar (at least 1 liter), a non-metallic spoon, a fine mesh strainer, a pitcher, and glasses for serving.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains none of the major allergens. If using store-bought cultures, always check product packaging for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 60 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 0 g protein.
Save Serve immediately for the sparkling effect. Enjoy this nourishing drink at brunch or outdoor gatherings for a vibrant twist.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the probiotic base?
Dissolve cane sugar in filtered water, add kefir grains or ginger bug and lemon juice, then ferment in a covered jar for 24–48 hours.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness or citrus flavor?
Yes, you can add more citrus juice or a splash of honey or agave for extra sweetness (note: honey isn’t vegan).
- → What garnish works best for serving?
Garnish each glass with a slice of orange and fresh mint leaves for extra aroma and a festive presentation.
- → Is this suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
The drink is vegan and gluten-free, provided honey isn’t used. Always verify cultures if store-bought.
- → Why use non-metallic utensils?
Metal can react with fermenting cultures and impact their growth, so glass, wood, or plastic is recommended.
- → What foods pair well with this drink?
Light salads, vegetarian dishes, or brunch fare complement this refreshing mocktail perfectly.