Pin it 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 made this probiotic soda mocktail for a summer brunch and everyone loved its fizzy tang and bright citrus flavors. It's now my go-to when I want a light, healthy drink that feels a little special without alcohol.
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 slices, for garnish
- Ice cubes: to serve
Instructions
- Make 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 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.
- Mix flavoring:
- 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.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for best fizz.
Pin it We celebrated a lazy Sunday afternoon with these mocktails on the porch, and now it's a tradition every time family comes together – even the kids love the citrusy bubbles.
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 it Try this cooling, bubbly mocktail at your next gathering – it brings out the best in fresh flavors and healthy fizz.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ferment the probiotic base?
Dissolve sugar in filtered water, add water kefir grains or ginger bug and lemon juice. Cover with a breathable cloth, ferment at room temperature for 24–48 hours until lightly fizzy.
- → Can I substitute water kefir grains?
Yes, ginger bug works well and adds a spicier note. Both provide probiotics and a fizzy finish.
- → How do I adjust sweetness or tartness?
Increase or decrease citrus juice and add a splash of honey or agave if you prefer a sweeter drink.
- → Is this beverage vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, all listed ingredients are vegan and gluten-free. Avoid honey for strict vegan options.
- → Does this drink contain allergens?
No major allergens are present with homemade cultures. Check store-bought options for cross-contamination warnings.
- → Can I use different citrus fruits?
Yes, experiment with grapefruit, tangerine, or even lemon for varied flavor profiles.