Pin A refreshing collection of naturally fermented beverages inspired by kombucha, perfect for enjoying as healthy, alcohol-free mocktails with complex flavors and gentle fizz.
When I started experimenting with home-brewed kombucha-inspired drinks, I was amazed by how easy it is to create delicious, wellness-boosting bubbles right in my own kitchen. The gentle fermentation process adds complexity and a delightful sparkle thats even better with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Filtered water: 2 liters for brewing the base
- Black or green tea bags: 8 tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose-leaf tea
- Granulated sugar: 200 g (1 cup) to fuel fermentation
- Kombucha SCOBY or starter kombucha: 1 SCOBY or 200 ml unflavored kombucha
- Flavoring Options: Choose one or more (100 g fresh berries, 1 lemon or lime thinly sliced, 1 knob fresh ginger sliced, 1 sprig mint or basil, 2 tablespoons fruit juice, 1 tablespoon dried hibiscus petals, 1 cinnamon stick or 3–4 whole cloves)
Instructions
- Brew the tea:
- Boil 2 liters of filtered water. Add tea bags or loose-leaf tea and steep for 10 minutes. Remove tea bags or strain out leaves.
- Add sugar:
- While the tea is hot, stir in the sugar until fully dissolved. Let the sweetened tea cool to room temperature (hot liquid can harm the SCOBY).
- Combine and ferment:
- Pour cooled sweet tea into a clean large glass jar. Add the SCOBY and starter liquid (or store-bought kombucha).
- Cover and ferment:
- Cover the jar with a clean cloth or paper towel held by a rubber band. Leave at room temperature away from sunlight for 5–7 days.
- Check and taste:
- After 5 days, sample daily. When tangy and lightly fizzy (not too sour), go to the next step.
- Flavor and bottle:
- Take out the SCOBY and 200 ml kombucha for the next batch. Add your preferred fruits, herbs or spices.
- Bottle and ferment more:
- Pour kombucha into clean bottles, leaving 2–3 cm space at the top. Seal bottles and ferment at room temperature for 1–3 days to build carbonation.
- Refrigerate and serve:
- Once carbonation is right, move bottles to the fridge. Strain out solid flavorings before pouring.
Pin I love watching my family discover their favorite flavor combos—my kids get creative with berries and mint, and every batch is a new adventure in our kitchen.
Required Tools
Large glass jar (2–3 liters), fine mesh strainer, funnel, clean bottles with tight lids, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains caffeine if using tea. Check labels for gluten and nut cross-contamination especially with added flavorings.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 45 calories, 0 g fat, 11 g carbohydrates, 0 g protein
Pin Each pour is a celebration—serve with sparkling water and fresh herbs for a festive finishing touch.
Recipe Questions
- → How long does fermentation take?
Fermentation typically takes 5–7 days; extra carbonation needs another 1–3 days after bottling.
- → Which teas work best for the base?
Choose black or green tea for the best flavor development and proper fermentation.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes. Shorten fermentation for sweeter drinks or let ferment longer for tangier results.
- → What flavor combinations are recommended?
Mix berries, citrus, ginger, mint, spices, or juices for exciting, complex flavor profiles.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, if using certified gluten-free tea and carefully selected flavorings.
- → What tools are essential for brewing?
You will need a large glass jar, strainer, funnel, clean bottles, and measuring cups/spoons.