Pin 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 created this mocktail for a summer brunch with friends. Everyone loved the fizzy tang and bright citrus flavors, and it quickly became my go-to for healthy entertaining.
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
- 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 culture:
- 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 My family now requests this homemade probiotic soda every weekend, and my kids love helping with the orange and mint garnish.
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. 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.
Pin Enjoy your fizzy probiotic mocktail chilled for the brightest flavor. It’s a simple treat for any sunny day.
Recipe Q&A
- → How long does the fermentation process take?
The probiotic base ferments for 24–48 hours at room temperature. The longer it sits, the tangier and fizzier it becomes.
- → Can I use ginger bug instead of kefir grains?
Yes, ginger bug adds a subtle spicy note and works well as a culture in place of water kefir grains.
- → Is this drink suitable for vegans and those avoiding gluten?
Absolutely! All ingredients are vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for varied diets.
- → How do I adjust sweetness or citrus flavor?
Add extra orange or lime juice for more acidity, or a splash of honey/agave for sweetness. Taste and balance to your liking.
- → Why use non-metallic utensils during fermentation?
Metal can react with fermenting cultures, potentially inhibiting their activity. Always use glass, plastic, or wood.
- → What foods pair well with this drink?
Light salads, fresh fruit, and brunch dishes complement the sparkling citrus flavors perfectly.