Save 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 soda for a weekend brunch with friends, and everyone loved its tangy fizz and fresh mint flavor. We enjoyed experimenting with different citrus combinations to suit our tastes.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter)
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp (see notes)
- 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
- Thin orange slices: 4 (for garnish)
- Ice cubes: to serve
Instructions
- Prepare probiotic base:
- In a clean glass jar, dissolve the cane sugar in filtered water. Add the 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:
- Strain out the kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for your next batch.
- Add flavoring:
- 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 over, and garnish each with a slice of orange and extra mint if desired. Serve immediately for best fizz.
Save Making this together with my kids turned into a fun science experiment, watching the bubbles grow each day. Their excitement at tasting the finished drink made it even more special.
Required Tools
1 large glass jar (at least 1 liter), non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses are all you need.
Allergen Information
This recipe 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
Save Enjoy this probiotic soda mocktail chilled and freshly poured for the best fizz. It's a healthy way to refresh at any gathering.
Recipe Guide
- → What probiotic base options are used?
Choose water kefir grains or a ginger bug for fermentation, each delivering natural carbonation and beneficial cultures.
- → How long does the fermentation take?
Ferment the soda base for 24–48 hours at room temperature until it becomes lightly fizzy and tangy.
- → Can the sweetness or citrus be adjusted?
Yes, you may increase or decrease sugar and citrus juices to suit personal taste, or add a splash of honey or agave for extra sweetness.
- → What garnish and serving options work well?
Serve over ice and garnish with orange slices and fresh mint to enhance presentation and aroma.
- → Are special tools required for preparation?
Use a large glass jar, non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses for optimal results and easy handling of cultures.
- → Is this beverage suitable for special diets?
This drink is vegan and gluten-free, featuring only fresh, simple ingredients without common allergens.