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 discovered this probiotic soda mocktail during a summer heatwave and it instantly became my favorite way to stay cool and healthy. The fizz and fresh flavors turned even ordinary afternoons into a special occasion.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 4 cups (1 liter), used as the fermenting base
- Organic cane sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g), for fermentation
- Water kefir grains or ginger bug: 2 tbsp (see notes for substitution)
- 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 soda 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 flavorings:
- 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 Serving this mocktail at our last family brunch was a hit: even the kids joined in, enjoying their pretty glasses and asking for refills.
Notes & Variations
You can substitute water kefir grains with a ginger bug for a spicier profile or swap the citrus for berries to change the flavor.
Tools & Equipment
You'll need a large glass jar (at least 1 liter), a non-metallic spoon, a fine mesh strainer, pitcher, and glasses for serving.
Nutrition & Allergen Info
Each serving contains approximately 60 calories, 15 g carbohydrates, and is vegan and gluten-free with no major allergens.
Save Pour chilled mocktail into glasses and enjoy this healthy, gut-friendly refresher for any occasion.