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 served this drink at my summer brunch. Everyone loved the gentle fizz and bright citrus aroma. It has become our go-to mocktail for family afternoons on the patio!
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 (for garnish): 4 slices
- 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. Stir gently with a non-metallic spoon.
- Ferment:
- Cover 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 kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for next batch.
- Flavor:
- In a pitcher, combine fermented soda base with orange juice, lime juice, and mint leaves. Stir gently.
- Serve:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour mocktail over, and garnish with a slice of orange and extra mint if desired. Serve immediately for best fizz.
Save My kids love helping add the mint leaves and orange slices. It has become a fun, healthy ritual for our weekend treats together.
Required Tools
1 large glass jar (at least 1 liter), non-metallic spoon, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, glasses.
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. For store-bought cultures, check for cross-contamination warnings.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 60, Total Fat: 0 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 0 g.
Save Enjoy your probiotic soda mocktail chilled for maximum fizz and flavor. Cheers to gut-friendly sipping and happy gatherings!
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I make the probiotic base?
Dissolve cane sugar in filtered water, add kefir grains or ginger bug, and lemon juice. Let ferment 24–48 hours.
- → Can I adjust the citrus flavor?
Absolutely! Add more orange or lime juice to suit your palate—or balance with extra sweetener.
- → Is it possible to use alternatives for kefir grains?
Yes, substitute kefir grains with ginger bug for a spicier touch and similar fermenting benefits.
- → What tools are needed to prepare this drink?
You'll need a large glass jar, non-metallic spoon, mesh strainer, pitcher, and serving glasses.
- → How should I serve the beverage?
Pour over ice cubes, garnish with orange slices and mint. Serve immediately for best fizz.
- → Is this drink suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are vegan and gluten-free, unless honey is used as a sweetener.