Brewing Your Own Kombucha
Love kombucha? You can brew your own at home with ease. In our video, Tricia brews up some 'buch and shares the basics of making kombucha at home. Homebrewed kombucha offers endless possibilities for flavoring and is a fun way to experiment with your favorite fruits, herbs, and extracts.
Fermentation Books & Resources
Secondary Fermentation for Flavor
Most store-bought kombucha has undergone a secondary fermentation, which enhances carbonation and deepens flavors. This process is easy and requires airtight glass jars, such as beer bottles with flip tops. Follow these steps:
- Thoroughly clean and sterilize jars.
- Pour SCOBY-free kombucha into jars.
- Add your desired flavorings (fruit, herbs, or extracts).
- Optional: Add a few raisins to boost fizz.
- Seal tightly and store at room temperature for 1-3 days.
After fermentation, strain out any floating SCOBYs or yeast strands, then refrigerate. Fermentation continues in the fridge at a slower pace, so strain again before drinking if needed.
Flavoring Your Kombucha
Customizing your kombucha lets you create unique and delicious flavors. There are three primary ways to flavor it: with **fruits, herbs & spices, or extracts**.
Fruit Additions
Fresh, dried, or juiced fruits provide excellent flavors. Mash fresh fruits slightly to release juices. Some popular choices:
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Figs
- Strawberries, peaches, nectarines, and more.
Herbs & Spices
A small amount of herbs and spices can go a long way in adding complexity to your kombucha. Consider:
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Ginger, cinnamon, mint, or cardamom
Extracts & Infusions
Extracts or infused waters provide a concentrated burst of flavor. Try these fun combinations:
- Pina Colada: Pineapple juice + coconut extract
- Blueberry Muffin: Blueberries + vanilla + cinnamon
- Strawberry Rose: Strawberries + vanilla + rose petals
Health Benefits of Kombucha
Not only is kombucha delicious, but it is also packed with **probiotics, antioxidants, and vitamins** that support gut health. Brewing kombucha at home ensures you control the ingredients, keeping it free from artificial additives and excessive sugars.
Start Your Kombucha Journey
Brewing and flavoring your own kombucha is a fun and rewarding process. Get started with some fermentation books and experiment with your favorite flavors. Happy brewing!
