Ginger Bug & Probiotic Sodas From Scratch
Make your own gut-friendly soda at home without any fancy machine!
In a world where store-bought prebiotic sodas often fall short on both taste and gut health benefits, the discovery of making soda from scratch using a Ginger Bug has been a game-changer for many. For those, like me, who found commercial prebiotic sodas harsh on the stomach with artificial flavors, the transition to homemade soda has been nothing short of life-altering.
The decision to delve into the world of DIY soda-making was fueled by a desire for a healthier alternative that wouldn't break the bank. The realization that store-bought sodas were packed with artificial flavors, preservatives, and often left my stomach unhappy pushed me to explore a more natural and cost-effective solution.
Enter the Ginger Bug – a simple yet powerful fermentation starter (similar to a sourdough starter) that has transformed the way I enjoy soda. Harnessing the natural benefits of fermentation, Ginger Bug not only adds a delightful fizz to homemade sodas but also introduces a host of gut-friendly probiotics that support digestion and overall well-being.
The process of creating my own Soda using Ginger Bug has been a rewarding journey. By combining fresh fruit juice and the magic of fermentation, I have been able to craft a soda that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also nourishes my body from within.
The benefits of making soda from scratch using Ginger Bug are manifold. Not only do I have full control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more natural beverage, but I have also saved a significant amount of money in the process. Gone are the days of mindlessly purchasing pricey prebiotic sodas – now, I revel in the satisfaction of creating my own gut-loving refreshments at a fraction of the cost.
From experimenting with different flavors to relishing the fizzy satisfaction of a homemade soda, the journey to crafting my own beverages has been one of empowerment and joy. With each sip, I am reminded of the simple pleasure and profound impact that homemade sodas can have on both my well-being and my wallet.
So, to all soda enthusiasts looking to elevate their beverage game and prioritize gut health, I urge you to embrace the art of making soda from scratch with Ginger Bug. Not only will you experience the delightful flavors and benefits of homemade soda, but you may also find a newfound sense of empowerment and savings that come with crafting your own refreshments.
Join me in raising a glass to the magic of Ginger Bug, the joy of homemade soda, and the countless possibilities that await in your own kitchen. Here's to gut-friendly refreshment, natural flavors, and a journey of self-discovery through the art of soda-making.
Cheers to a healthier, happier, and more affordable way to enjoy soda – one fizzy sip at a time.
To make a Ginger Bug, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons organic granulated sugar
- 2 cups filtered water
Here's how you can make a Ginger Bug:
1. Place the grated ginger, sugar, and filtered water in a glass jar.
2. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
3. Cover the jar with a clean cloth or paper towel and secure it with a rubber band.
4. Place the jar in a warm spot away from direct sunlight.
5. Stir the mixture with a clean utensil once a day and add 1 tablespoon of grated ginger and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
6. Repeat this process for about 5-7 days until the mixture becomes bubbly and fragrant.
7. Your Ginger Bug is now ready to use as a natural fermentation starter for homemade sodas and other fermented drinks.
You can add in add fruit juice, but here is the soda I featured in the video
To create a delicious Lemon Lavender Soda using your Ginger Bug, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tbsp of fresh lavender (I picked mine from my garden)
- 2 tablespoons Ginger Bug
- 2 cups filtered water
1 tsp of sugar for max carbonation.
Here's how to make the Lemon Lavender Soda:
1. In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice, lavender, Ginger Bug, (sugar) and filtered water.
2. Stir well to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed.
3. Cover the pitcher with a lid or plastic wrap.
4. Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 2-3 days. Check for carbonation by gently opening (aka as burping it) the lid to release any built-up pressure. This is a very important step — we forget this the first time, and there was an EXPLOSION in our kitchen. So don’t skip this step!
5. Once the soda reaches your desired level of fizziness, transfer it to bottles and refrigerate to slow down the fermentation process.
6. Serve the chilled Lemon Lavender Soda over ice and enjoy its refreshing and floral flavors.
