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 started experimenting with probiotic drinks to keep cool and feel energized. This mocktail became a quick favorite because it feels festive and helps me sneak extra hydration when entertaining friends.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter), serves as the liquid base
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g), feeds the probiotic cultures
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp, for natural fermentation (see notes for options)
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml), adds brightness
- Fresh orange juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), for fruity flavor
- Fresh lime juice: 1/2 cup (120 ml), balances acidity
- Fresh mint leaves: 8, for herbal aroma
- Thin orange slices: 4, for garnish
- Ice cubes: to serve, keeps the drink cool
Instructions
- Prepare fermentation base:
- Dissolve cane sugar in filtered water inside a clean glass jar. Add water kefir grains or ginger bug and lemon juice. Stir gently with a non-metallic spoon.
- Ferment:
- Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or coffee filter, secure with a rubber band. Set aside at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F) for 24–48 hours, until slightly fizzy and tangy.
- Strain:
- Remove kefir grains or ginger bug using a fine mesh strainer. Discard or save for your next batch.
- Flavor:
- In a pitcher, mix your fermented base with orange juice, lime juice, and mint leaves. Stir gently.
- Serve:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour mocktail over ice, garnish each glass with orange slice and more mint. Serve immediately for maximum fizz.
Save This colorful mocktail is always a hit at family picnics. Even the kids are excited to help squeeze the citrus and add the mint leaves before serving.
Required Tools
Use a large glass jar for fermentation, a non-metallic spoon for mixing, a fine mesh strainer to remove cultures, and a pitcher and glasses for serving.
Allergen Information
No major allergens are present. If you use store-bought cultures, confirm there's no cross-contamination for sensitive guests.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains around 60 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 0 g protein.
Save Every glass of this probiotic soda mocktail is a bright, gut-friendly treat. Cheers to delicious hydration and effortless summer entertaining!
Recipe FAQ
- → How is the probiotic base prepared?
Dissolve organic cane sugar in filtered water and add water kefir grains or ginger bug plus lemon juice. Ferment covered for up to 48 hours.
- → Can I substitute water kefir grains?
Yes, ginger bug works well as a spicy alternative, providing similar probiotic benefits and fizz.
- → Can sweetness be adjusted?
Absolutely. Add more citrus juice or a splash of honey or agave before serving to taste. Use agave for vegan options.
- → What tools are recommended?
Use a glass jar, non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and serving glasses to maintain clean fermentation and serving.
- → Is this drink allergen-free?
It contains none of the major allergens, but check store-bought cultures for possible cross-contamination.
- → How should it be served?
Pour over ice cubes, garnish with orange slices and mint leaves. Serve immediately for best fizz and freshness.