Save to Pinterest A refreshing and lightly sparkling non-alcoholic drink, probiotic soda mocktail is made with homemade probiotic soda, fresh citrus, and herbs. Perfect for anyone looking to support gut health while enjoying a delicious summer beverage.
I began experimenting with homemade probiotic sodas last summer, and creating mocktails from them quickly became a favorite way to share healthy drinks with my family at picnics and brunch.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter), for fermenting probiotic base
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g), to feed fermenting cultures
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp, starter culture for fermentation (see notes)
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml), adds tart flavor
- Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), for flavoring
- Fresh lime juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), for flavoring
- Mint leaves: 8 fresh, adds aromatic freshness
- Orange slices: 4 thin, for garnish
- Ice cubes: To serve and chill drink
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.
- Fermentation:
- 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 culture:
- Strain out kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for the next batch.
- Flavor and mix:
- 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 a slice of orange and extra mint if desired. Serve immediately for best fizz.
Save to Pinterest This mocktail quickly became a family favorite for brunch, especially on sunny weekends when everyone craves something refreshing and healthy.
Required Tools
Use a large glass jar (at least 1 liter), non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses for serving.
Allergen Information
This probiotic mocktail contains none of the major allergens. If you use store-bought cultures, always check for possible allergen cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 60 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 0 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this probiotic soda mocktail chilled, garnished with orange and mint for a vibrant and healthy sip.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the base for the probiotic soda?
The base is made by fermenting filtered water with cane sugar and water kefir grains or ginger bug, creating natural fizz.
- → How long does fermentation take?
Fermentation is typically complete in 24 to 48 hours at room temperature, resulting in a lightly sparkling tang.
- → Can I substitute water kefir grains?
Absolutely, ginger bug works well and offers a spicier flavor profile for the soda base.
- → How do I serve this mocktail?
Pour over ice cubes in glasses and garnish with orange slices and mint leaves for a refreshing presentation.
- → Is this beverage suitable for vegans and gluten-free diets?
Yes, it's vegan and gluten-free if honey is omitted for sweetening; cane sugar or agave are suitable alternatives.