The sweet and tangy aroma of strawberries mixed with the tart crispness of rhubarb dances through the air as you prepare to make a refreshing Strawberry Rhubarb Fermented Soda. This deliciously fizzy drink takes about a week to craft but is invigorating and worth the wait. The fermentation process not only brings out the flavors of the ingredients but also adds a delightful effervescence that’s simply irresistible.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore homemade beverages and enhance gatherings with a uniquely crafted soda. Great for hot summer days or festive occasions, you can make it ahead of time and store the bottles in the fridge for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Enjoy the unique flavors of fresh strawberries and rhubarb together.
- Experience the natural fizz from fermentation, which is both fun and satisfying.
- Customize the sweetness to your preference with varying amounts of sugar.
- Simple, quick preparation with just a few ingredients and equipment.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for an exciting homemade soda experience.
For the Soda Base
- 1 pound strawberries, sliced
- 3-4 stalks rhubarb, sliced
- 1 gallon water, divided
For Fermentation
- Ginger bug (amount as desired)
- 1-2 cups sugar, to taste
Use fresh ginger for the ginger bug if possible.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Rhubarb can be replaced with a tart apple.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness.
How to Make It
Follow these steps to create your delicious soda.
Boil Ingredients
Boil the strawberries and rhubarb in about a half gallon of water for 15-20 minutes until softened. This creates the flavors of your soda base.
Cool and Jar
Let the mixture cool slightly and pour it into a wide mouth gallon jar.
Sweeten Mixture
Add 1-2 cups of sugar, depending on how sweet you want your soda to be, and stir to dissolve completely.
Add Water
Fill up the jar most of the way with cold, unchlorinated water. Once it cools down to room temperature, add the ginger bug (chunks are ok).
Cover and Ferment
Cover the jar with a clean cloth or cheesecloth secured with a rubber band and put it in an out-of-the-way spot away from direct sunlight. This allows for proper fermentation.
Stir Daily
Stir it up at least twice a day. Fermentation should take anywhere from 2-7 days depending on the temperature of your environment.
Bottle the Soda
Once fermentation is complete, strain out the fruit then use a funnel to put it into bottles.
Finalize Carbonation
Let the bottles sit at room temperature for a day or two to allow for carbonation development; then refrigerate them.
How to Store It
Fridge: Consume within one week in sealed bottles.
Freezer: No, it disrupts carbonation.
Reheat: Not applicable; serve chilled.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure all equipment is sanitized to prevent unwanted bacteria during fermentation.
- Check the soda daily to taste; you can stop fermentation early if desired.
- Use unchlorinated water for the best flavor and fermentation results.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with light summer salads for refreshing lunches.
- Serve at barbecues or outdoor picnics for a sparkling twist.
- Enjoy alongside desserts like cheesecake or fruity tarts for a delightful experience.
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