With our easy tips and tricks, learn how to make this delicious kombucha recipe at home.
Kombucha has grown in popularity in Singapore in recent years. Several years ago, it would have been difficult to find kombucha in a nearby or local grocery store. However, kombucha has grown in popularity across the island, and various varieties of the drink can now be found on the shelves of supermarket health drink sections.
So, what’s the big deal about kombucha? There has recently been a shift in consumer interest in healthy products. There have been some bold claims made about the health benefits of drinking kombucha. Drinking kombucha may help manage Type 2 Diabetes symptoms, prevent cancer, and lower the risk of heart problems, according to research. Kombucha is also high in probiotics and antioxidants. Drinking it can help with digestion and overall gut health.
What exactly is kombucha?
Kombucha is a fermented drink made from sweetened tea that is mildly fizzy. This fermented process is known as a scoby, which stands for symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts.’ The sugar is converted into ethanol and acetic acid by the bacteria and yeasts in the scoby. Acetic acid is what gives kombucha its distinct sour flavor.
Where can you buy Kombucha?
With the popularity of Kombucha, many brands and craft producers have created instant kombucha in a sachet. Kombucha products can be found on the healthy food shelves of local grocery stores. Of course, this repacked kombucha is not as healthy as the one we make at home. Instant kombucha contains additional artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and other chemicals, making it less healthy than you might expect.
Why not make your own kombucha?
How to make kombucha
Most of the ingredients we use are readily available in supermarkets, there is little specialized equipment required, and once you’ve mastered the technique, there are endless ways to experiment – whether it’s experimenting with different tea varieties or adding fruits, herbs, and spices for flavor.
Ingredients to make kombucha
- 60g caster sugar
- 3 earl gray tea bags
- 2 breakfast tea bags
- 1 scoby, plus 100ml of kombucha liquid (You can buy scoby and Kombucha liquid online or in grocery stores with a health section.)
Steps to make kombucha at home
Step 1
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and 1 liter of freshly boiled water and heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved.
Step 2
Allow the tea bags to infuse for 5 minutes. Take out the tea bags and set the tea aside to cool completely.
Step 3
Once cool, place the scoby and kombucha liquid in a large glass jar, cover with kitchen paper, and secure with an elastic band or string. After the first week, leave in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks, tasting daily – it should be funky and acidic but not overly sour.
Step 4
When you’re satisfied with the outcome, remove the scoby and 100ml of the liquid.
Step 5
Drink within a few days, or store in the fridge or at room temperature for additional fermentation.
