Flavoring Kombucha in Your Kitchen
Brew Your Own Kombucha
Love kombucha? You can brew your own at home with ease. In our video, Tricia brews up some 'buch and shows you the basic steps for making your own kombucha. Homebrewed kombucha offers endless possibilities for flavoring, and it's a fun way to experiment with your favorite fruits, herbs, and extracts.
Secondary Fermentation
Most of the kombucha you buy has undergone a secondary fermentation and flavoring process. This step is easier than the primary fermentation and is key to achieving that fizzy texture. To get started, you’ll need airtight glass jars that can handle pressure, such as canning jars or beer bottles with flip tops. Here’s how to do it:
- Clean and sterilize your jars thoroughly.
- Pour your SCOBY-less brew into the jars.
- Add your desired flavorings (fruit, herbs, or extracts).
- Add a few raisins for extra fizz (optional).
- Seal the jars tightly and leave them at room temperature for 1 to 3 days.
Once the secondary fermentation is complete, strain out any yeast strands, floating SCOBYs, or flavoring remnants. Bottle and refrigerate your kombucha. Remember, fermentation continues in the fridge, albeit at a slower pace, so strain again before drinking if needed.
Flavoring Your Kombucha
Adding flavors to your kombucha transforms it into a refreshing, customizable beverage. The three main categories of flavorings are fruits, herbs and spices, and extracts. Here are some creative ideas:
Fruit for Kombucha
Use fresh, dried, or juiced fruits for maximum flavor. Fresh fruit should be mashed slightly to release the flavor, while juice offers the most intense taste. Experiment with these favorites:
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Figs
- Strawberries, peaches, nectarines, and more.
Herbs and Spices
A little goes a long way! Start small and adjust to your taste. Try these options:
Extracts and Infused Waters
For a concentrated flavor boost, add 1 teaspoon of extract or infused water per quart of kombucha. Favorite combinations include:
- Pina Colada: Pineapple juice and coconut extract.
- Blueberry Muffin: Blueberries, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Strawberry Rose: Strawberries, vanilla, and rose petals.
Health Benefits of Kombucha
Kombucha isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with probiotics, antioxidants, and vitamins that promote gut health and overall wellness. Homebrewed kombucha gives you full control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier drink free from artificial additives.
Get Started with Kombucha Brewing
Brewing and flavoring your own kombucha is an enjoyable and rewarding process. Start with some fermentation books and explore the endless possibilities of creative flavor combinations. Happy brewing!