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Now that you have your ginger bug bubbling and ready to use, it’s time to turn it into refreshing homemade sodas! Unlike store-bought sodas, these drinks are free of artificial sweeteners and packed with natural probiotics. Here are three simple soda recipes you can make using your ginger bug.
1. Classic Ginger Beer A fizzy, slightly spicy drink with a natural kick, homemade ginger beer is perfect for digestion and refreshment.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups filtered water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons fresh grated ginger (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 cup ginger bug starter
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and grated ginger. Stir until sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Strain out the ginger pieces and pour the liquid into a fermentation bottle or jar.
- Add the ginger bug starter and lemon juice. Seal and let ferment at room temperature for 2-3 days until fizzy.
- Refrigerate before opening to slow fermentation. Enjoy!
2. Blueberry Lemon Fizz A fruity, tangy soda that’s full of antioxidants and gut-friendly benefits.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups filtered water
- 1/2 cup blueberries (mashed)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup ginger bug starter
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the water, mashed blueberries, and sugar until sugar dissolves. Let cool and strain out solids.
- Add the lemon juice and ginger bug starter.
- Pour into a fermentation bottle, seal, and let sit for 2-3 days.
- Refrigerate and enjoy chilled.
3. Herbal Honey Soda A calming, lightly sweet soda infused with herbal goodness.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups filtered water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 chamomile tea bags (or your favorite herbal tea)
- 1/4 cup ginger bug starter
Instructions:
- Brew the tea in hot water and stir in honey until dissolved.
- Let cool to room temperature, then add the ginger bug starter.
- Pour into a fermentation bottle, seal, and ferment for 2-3 days.
- Refrigerate and serve over ice.
Making your own probiotic-rich sodas is an easy and fun way to boost gut health while enjoying delicious drinks. Experiment with different flavors and find your favorite combination. Which one will you try first? Let me know in the comments!
Want to learn how to make even more fermented drinks (including boozy ones)? Check out this book: The Wildcrafting Brewer for more ideas, methods, and instructions!