Pin this 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 started making probiotic soda mocktails when looking for a healthy, fun alternative to regular soft drinks. The fermentation process is simple and totally worth the wait.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter)
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp
- 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
- 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.
- 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 slightly fizzy and tangy.
- Strain:
- Strain out the kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for your next batch.
- Add flavors:
- 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.
Pin this This mocktail quickly became a favorite for our weekend family brunches. Everyone loves the bright flavors and the fun fizz it adds to the table.
Required Tools
1 large glass jar (at least 1 liter), non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses are all you'll need for this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. If using store-bought cultures, check for allergen cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 60 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 0 g protein.
Pin this This probiotic soda mocktail is a simple and festive way to enjoy a healthy refreshment. Cheers to happier guts and fun flavors!
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How is the probiotic base prepared?
Dissolve cane sugar in filtered water and add kefir grains or ginger bug with lemon juice. Let ferment at room temperature for 24–48 hours until fizzy and tangy.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness and flavor?
Yes, adjust citrus juice and sweetener to taste. For added sweetness, use honey or agave, noting that honey is not vegan.
- → Is it necessary to use non-metallic utensils?
Always use non-metallic utensils when handling fermenting cultures to avoid harming probiotics and affecting fermentation quality.
- → What can I substitute for water kefir grains?
Replace water kefir grains with ginger bug for a spicier, slightly different flavor profile in your drink.
- → How do I serve the mocktail for best flavor?
Pour over ice, garnish with orange slices and mint, and serve immediately to maintain fizz and freshness.
- → Is this drink allergen-free?
The ingredients themselves contain none of the major allergens, but check store-bought cultures for possible cross-contamination.