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 tried this probiotic soda mocktail at a summer picnic, and it quickly became everyone's favorite beverage. The combination of lemon, orange, and mint always reminds me of sunny afternoons spent outdoors.
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
- Orange slices: 4 thin slices, for garnish
- Ice cubes: To serve
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, then stir gently with a non-metallic spoon.
- Ferment:
- Cover the jar with a breathable cloth 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 kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for your next batch.
- Mix flavoring:
- In a pitcher, combine the fermented soda base, 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 as desired. Serve immediately for best fizz.
Save Sharing this mocktail with my family has turned into a summer tradition, with everyone joining in to pick fresh mint from the garden for garnish.
Required Tools
Large glass jar, non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses are all you need to make this refreshing beverage.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains 60 calories, 0 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 0 g protein.
Ingredient Notes
Substitute water kefir grains with a ginger bug for a spicier taste. Adjust citrus and sweetness as preferred, or add honey or agave for extra sweetness (note: honey isn't vegan).
Save Enjoy this probiotic soda mocktail as a healthy alternative to sugary drinks, and toast to vibrant summer days!
Recipe Questions
- → How long does fermentation take?
Fermentation typically takes 24–48 hours at room temperature until the soda is fizzy and tangy.
- → Can I substitute ginger bug for kefir grains?
Yes, ginger bug can replace kefir grains for a slightly spicier and robust flavor.
- → Is the beverage suitable for vegans?
Yes, the drink is vegan when prepared without honey. Use agave or omit extra sweeteners.
- → How should I serve this mocktail?
Serve chilled over ice, garnished with orange slices and fresh mint for optimal refreshment.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely. Add a splash of honey or agave for sweetness, and adjust citrus juices to your taste.
- → Does the beverage contain major allergens?
No major allergens are present. If using store-bought cultures, review packaging for cross-contamination.