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 prepared this mocktail for a weekend brunch with friends. Everyone loved how it was both vibrant and nourishing, with just the right amount of zing from the citrus and fizz from the fermentation.
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: 4 (for garnish)
- Ice cubes: To serve
Instructions
- Prepare Soda Base:
- In a clean glass jar, dissolve cane sugar in filtered water. Add water kefir grains or ginger bug and fresh 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 kefir grains or ginger bug. Discard or reuse for your next batch.
- Add Flavors:
- 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 each with a slice of orange and extra mint if desired. Serve immediately for best fizz.
Save My family loves sharing this gut-friendly soda at summer gatherings. Even kids join in the fun of choosing their favorite garnishes and learning about fermentation 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 allergen cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 60, Total Fat: 0 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 0 g
Save This probiotic mocktail is a delicious and healthy way to beat the heat. Enjoy it fresh for the best fizz and flavor.
Recipe Questions
- → How long does fermentation take for the soda base?
Fermentation typically requires 24–48 hours at room temperature for the base to become fizzy and tangy.
- → Can ginger bug replace water kefir grains?
Yes, ginger bug can be used as an alternative, lending a subtle spicy note to the drink.
- → Is this beverage suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets?
This mocktail is both vegan and gluten-free, as long as honey is not used as a sweetener.
- → How can sweetness be adjusted?
Sweetness can be tailored by adding honey, agave, or extra cane sugar as preferred.
- → What tools are required to prepare this drink?
You need a large glass jar, non-metallic spoon, strainer, pitcher, and glasses for serving.
- → Are there any common allergens in this beverage?
It contains none of the major allergens. Check store-bought cultures for potential cross-contamination.