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 started making this probiotic mocktail when looking for healthier drink alternatives during warm months. It quickly became a favorite at gatherings and is requested by friends who love its bright, fizzy flavor.
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 the 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.
- Fermentation:
- 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.
- Mix 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 This recipe became special when my kids started helping with the simple fermentation process. Now it's our family's go-to summer drink, especially during weekend brunches.
Required Tools
You'll need a large glass jar (at least 1 liter), a non-metallic spoon, a fine mesh strainer, a pitcher, and glasses for serving.
Allergen Information
This mocktail contains none of the major allergens. If using store-bought cultures, check their packaging for possible cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 60 calories, 0 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 0 g protein.
Save Serve cold and enjoy the gentle fizz—it's perfect on a sunny day. Refrigerate any leftovers and drink within 2 days for best flavor.
Recipe Guide
- → How is probiotic soda prepared?
Probiotic soda is made by fermenting water, organic cane sugar, kefir grains or ginger bug, and lemon juice, resulting in a naturally fizzy drink.
- → Can I substitute water kefir grains?
Yes, you can use a ginger bug for a mildly spicy note instead of water kefir grains to start fermentation.
- → Is this drink vegan and gluten-free?
Absolutely. All ingredients are plant-based and free of gluten, making it suitable for diverse diets.
- → How long does fermentation take?
The initial fermentation takes 24–48 hours at room temperature, producing a lightly sparkling base.
- → What flavors are added after fermentation?
Fresh orange and lime juices, along with mint leaves, are mixed in for bright, refreshing taste and aroma.
- → Can sweetness be adjusted?
Citrus juice quantity and sweeteners like honey or agave (check vegan requirements) let you balance sweetness to taste.