Looking for a refreshing, gut-friendly drink you can make at home? This kombucha recipe is your go-to guide for brewing tangy, fizzy, and probiotic-rich tea right in your kitchen. Kombucha has been cherished for centuries as a natural health tonic that supports digestion, boosts immunity, and provides a delicious alternative to sugary beverages. Whether you’re new to fermenting or an experienced brewer, this simple recipe will help you master the art of kombucha with confidence.
Ingredients
- 8 cups (2 liters) filtered water
- 4–6 black or green tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose-leaf tea)
- ¾ cup organic cane sugar
- 1 cup starter tea (unflavored kombucha from a previous batch or store-bought)
- 1 SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast)
- 1 large glass jar (1-gallon size recommended)
- Clean cloth or paper towel and rubber band (for covering the jar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Water
Heat 8 cups of filtered water in a large pot until it begins to boil. Remove from heat. - Brew the Tea
Add the tea bags or loose-leaf tea. Let steep for 10–15 minutes, then remove the tea bags (or strain the leaves). - Add the Sugar
Stir in ¾ cup of sugar until completely dissolved. This sweet tea will serve as food for the SCOBY during fermentation. - Cool the Tea
Allow the sweetened tea to cool to room temperature. Hot tea can damage the SCOBY, so ensure it’s completely cool before proceeding. - Combine Ingredients
Pour the cooled tea into your glass jar. Add 1 cup of starter tea and gently place the SCOBY on top. - Ferment the Kombucha
Cover the jar with a cloth or paper towel and secure it with a rubber band. Store the jar in a warm, dark place (around 70–80°F or 21–27°C) for 7–10 days. - Taste Test
After 7 days, begin tasting the kombucha daily. When it reaches your preferred balance of sweetness and tanginess, it’s ready. - Bottle and Second Ferment (Optional)
Remove the SCOBY and reserve 1 cup of kombucha as starter tea for your next batch. Pour the remaining kombucha into bottles, leaving 1 inch of headspace. You can add fruit, herbs, or spices for flavoring. Seal the bottles and let them sit at room temperature for 2–3 more days for carbonation. - Refrigerate and Enjoy
After the second fermentation, refrigerate the bottles to stop fermentation and enjoy your homemade kombucha chilled.
Nutrition Facts (per 8 oz serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 30 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
Tips & Variations
- Flavor Ideas: Add ginger, lemon, berries, or mint before the second fermentation for unique flavors.
- Tea Choice: Try green, white, or oolong tea for different taste profiles.
- Sugar Alternatives: Stick with cane sugar for best SCOBY health—avoid honey or artificial sweeteners.
- Storage: Always store finished kombucha in the fridge to preserve carbonation and prevent over-fermentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve kombucha chilled in a glass over ice. Garnish with a slice of citrus, a sprig of mint, or a few fresh berries for a visually appealing and flavorful drink. It pairs perfectly with light meals, salads, or as a refreshing beverage between meals.
FAQs
1. What is a SCOBY and where can I get one?
A SCOBY is a living culture of bacteria and yeast that ferments sweet tea into kombucha. You can get one online, from a friend who brews kombucha, or grow your own from unflavored store-bought kombucha.
2. How do I know if my kombucha has gone bad?
Spoiled kombucha may smell like vinegar or rotten eggs, show mold (fuzzy white or green spots), or have an off taste. When in doubt, throw it out.
3. Can I use different types of tea?
Yes! Black tea is traditional, but green, oolong, or white tea can all be used. Avoid teas with oils (like Earl Grey) as they can harm the SCOBY.
4. How long does homemade kombucha last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, homemade kombucha can last up to 1 month while maintaining flavor and fizz.
Conclusion
Brewing your own kombucha recipe at home is simple, rewarding, and endlessly customizable. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy a healthy, probiotic-rich drink tailored to your taste. Try this recipe, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the fizzy satisfaction of homemade kombucha!
