Make This Easy Hibiscus Kombucha Recipe At Home.
Kombucha has taken the health world by storm, becoming a staple in the diets of wellness enthusiasts everywhere.
Known for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits, this fermented tea drink is praised for supporting gut health, improving energy, and providing a natural source of probiotics.
While kombucha is readily available in stores, there’s something incredibly satisfying about brewing your own at home, especially when you can create unique flavours like hibiscus kombucha.
If you’ve ever thought about making your own kombucha but felt intimidated by the process, you’re in the right place.
This guide will walk you through a simple, step-by-step hibiscus kombucha recipe that’s easy to follow, even for beginners.
Not only will you discover how to brew your own delicious and healthful kombucha, but you’ll also learn about the benefits of doing so, from saving money to customising your brew to suit your taste.
For those of you who love the idea of hibiscus kombucha but aren’t ready to dive into home brewing just yet, don’t worry, I’ve also got you covered with recommendations for options you can buy.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer the convenience of ready-made kombucha, this post will help you enjoy the vibrant taste and health benefits of hibiscus kombucha, your way.
What is Kombucha?
Kombucha is a fizzy, tangy beverage made by fermenting sweetened tea with a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast).
This fermentation process not only gives kombucha its signature tart flavour but also fills it with probiotics (good bacteria) and enzymes that are beneficial for gut health.
Traditionally brewed with black or green tea, kombucha can be infused with different flavours. However, I decided to use dried hibiscus flowers for this kombucha recipe.
Hibiscus kombucha combines the bold, slightly tart taste of hibiscus tea with the natural effervescence of kombucha.
Hibiscus, made from the dried petals of the Hibiscus sabdariffa flower, is known for its deep red colour and fruity, floral flavour.
When used as the base for kombucha, hibiscus adds a vibrant, tangy twist to the drink, making it not only delicious but also rich in health benefits.
Hibiscus is packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and anthocyanins, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and support a healthy immune system.
Additionally, studies suggest that hibiscus may help lower blood pressure making it a heart-healthy choice.
When you combine these benefits with the probiotic power of kombucha, you get a drink that’s not only refreshing but full of flavour, this is one of my favourite kombucha flavours now.
Benefits of Making Your Own Hibiscus Kombucha Recipe
Making your own delicious kombucha at home offers a range of benefits that go beyond simply enjoying a refreshing drink.
Whether you’re a seasoned kombucha brewer or a complete beginner, there are several compelling reasons to try your hand at homemade kombucha.
1. Cost Savings
One of the most significant advantages of making kombucha at home is the cost savings. While store-bought kombucha can be expensive, brewing your own at home is much more economical. With a few basic ingredients and a little time, you can produce large batches of kombucha for a fraction of the cost. Plus, once you have your own SCOBY, you can keep brewing batch after batch, making the initial investment even more worthwhile.
2. Customisation
When you brew your own kombucha, you have complete control over the flavour, sweetness, and carbonation levels. Want a more tart and tangy kombucha? Simply let it ferment a bit longer. Prefer a sweeter taste? Adjust the sugar levels to suit your palate. During the second fermentation, you can also experiment with different flavour combinations by adding fruits, herbs, or spices. This level of customization ensures that your kombucha is perfectly tailored to your taste preferences every time.
3. Health Control
Shop-bought kombucha often contains added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavours to enhance taste and shelf life. By making your own kombucha, you can ensure that your drink is made with only the highest quality, organic ingredients. You control the amount of sugar that goes into your brew and avoid unwanted additives, resulting in a healthier beverage. Additionally, homemade kombucha is packed with live cultures and probiotics, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy gut and keeping your immune system working optimally.
4. Sustainability
Brewing your own kombucha is an environmentally friendly choice. By reusing your glass jars and bottles, you can significantly reduce the waste associated with single-use plastic or glass bottles that shop-bought kombucha often comes in. Plus, since you’re making kombucha in large batches, you’ll be cutting down on the environmental impact associated with frequent purchases and transportation of commercial kombucha.
Step-by-Step Hibiscus Kombucha Recipe
Making your own hibiscus kombucha at home is a rewarding process that’s easier than you might think.
With just a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment, you can create a delicious, refreshing drink that’s packed with health benefits.
Follow this step-by-step hibiscus kombucha recipe to get started. If you don’t have or don’t want to use hibiscus you can substitute for black tea bags.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed:
- 1 SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) – I bought mine from Amazon.
- 1 cup of organic cane sugar – I used golden granulated sugar
- 4-5 bags of hibiscus tea or 4-5 tablespoons of loose hibiscus flowers
- 14 cups of water
- 1 cup of starter kombucha (from a previous batch or the liquid that comes with your SCOBY)
- 1 large glass jar (preferably 1 gallon/4.5 Litres)
- A cloth cover (like a clean kitchen towel or coffee filter) and a rubber band
- Bottles for storage (with airtight lids) for the second fermentation
Instructions:
- Brew the Hibiscus Tea:
- Begin by bringing 14 cups of filtered water to a boil. Once boiling, remove the pan from heat and add the hibiscus tea bags or loose hibiscus flowers (or black tea bags). Let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the hibiscus to release its vibrant colour and flavour.
- After steeping, remove the tea bags or strain out the loose hibiscus. Stir in 1 cup of organic cane sugar until it’s fully dissolved. The sugar is crucial for fermentation, as it feeds the SCOBY.
- Cool the Tea:
- Allow the hibiscus tea to cool to room temperature. This step is important because adding the SCOBY to hot tea can kill the beneficial bacteria and yeast. Cooling may take a few hours, so be patient.
- Add the SCOBY and Starter Kombucha:
- Once the tea has cooled, pour it into a large glass jar. Add 1 cup of starter kombucha, which helps kickstart the fermentation process by creating an acidic environment that prevents harmful bacteria from growing.
- Gently place the SCOBY on top of the liquid. It may sink, float, or sit sideways, all of these are normal.
- Fermentation:
- Cover the jar with a cloth and secure it with a rubber band to keep out dust and insects while allowing air to circulate during the brewing process. Place the jar in a warm, dark place, away from direct sunlight, and let it ferment for 7-10 days. This is known as the first fermentation of kombucha.
- After about a week, start tasting your kombucha daily. The longer it ferments, the tangier it will become. Once it reaches your desired flavour, it’s time to bottle it.
- Taste and Bottle:
- Carefully remove the SCOBY, which will have taken on a deep red colour if you’ve used hibiscus tea, and set it aside with a cup of the kombucha to use as the starter tea for your next batch. If you’d like to add additional favourite flavours (such as ginger, berries, or citrus), now is the time to do so.
- Pour the kombucha into swing-top bottles, leaving a bit of space at the top. Seal the bottles tightly to create an airtight environment.
- Second Fermentation (Optional):
- If you prefer your kombucha to be fizzy, let the sealed bottles sit at room temperature for another 2-3 days for a second fermentation. This step allows carbon dioxide to build up, giving your kombucha that delightful effervescence.
- After the second fermentation, refrigerate the bottles to stop the fermentation process and chill your kombucha before drinking.
Tips for Success:
- Maintain a Healthy SCOBY: Always store your SCOBY in a bit of kombucha as a starter liquid to keep it healthy and ready for the next batch. If well cared for, a SCOBY can last indefinitely, producing endless batches of kombucha.
- Monitor Fermentation Time: The fermentation time can vary depending on the temperature and your taste preference. Warmer temperatures speed up fermentation, while cooler temperatures slow it down.
- Troubleshooting Common Issues: If your kombucha tastes too sour, it may have fermented for too long—reduce the fermentation time for your next batch. If it’s too sweet, let it ferment a bit longer.
Don’t Want to DIY? Kombucha to Buy in the UK
If brewing your own kombucha at home isn’t your cup of tea (pun intended!) or if you simply prefer the convenience of grabbing a ready-made bottle, the good news is that there is a fantastic selection of high-quality kombucha brands.
Here are some of the best options available, ensuring you can still enjoy the benefits of this refreshing and probiotic-rich drink, no matter the flavour you prefer.
1. Remedy Kombucha
Remedy Kombucha is a popular choice, known for its commitment to health and taste. Their kombucha is brewed using traditional methods and is naturally sugar-free. With flavours like Ginger Lemon, Raspberry Lemonade, and Apple Crisp, Remedy offers a delicious variety packed with live cultures.
2. Lo Bros Kombucha
Lo Bros is another excellent brand available across the UK. Their kombucha is raw, organic, and full of live cultures, offering a lively fizz and bold flavour. Whether you’re in the mood for classic flavours like Ginger and Lemon or something more adventurous like Watermelon and Passionfruit, Lo Bros has something to suit every palate.
3. JARR Kombucha
JARR Kombucha, based in London, is known for its authentic and well-balanced brews. With a range of flavours like Original, Ginger, and Passion Fruit, JARR’s kombucha is raw, organic, and made with high-quality ingredients. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate a traditional kombucha taste with a modern twist.
4. Equinox Kombucha
Equinox Kombucha offers a range of organic, vegan-friendly kombucha that’s both refreshing and invigorating. Available in flavours such as Pink Grapefruit & Guava, Raspberry & Elderflower, and Ginger, Equinox kombucha is crafted to perfection and widely available in supermarkets and health food stores across the UK.
What to Look For in Shop-Bought Kombucha
When selecting kombucha from the store, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Live Cultures: Choose kombucha that is raw and unpasteurized to ensure it contains beneficial probiotics.
- Low Sugar Content: Some commercial kombuchas can be high in added sugars, so check the label for a healthier, low-sugar option.
- Organic Ingredients: Opt for organic kombucha to avoid synthetic additives and ensure the purity of the drink.
If you are interested in making more healthy fermented food at home why not try Sourdough Bread, you can learn more in this post.
Conclusion
Whether you decide to brew your own or opt for a shop-bought variety, kombucha is a refreshing drink that’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine providing natural immune support.
Homemade kombucha offers the satisfaction of crafting a beverage that’s tailored to your taste, allowing you to experiment with different flavours and levels of sweetness. Plus, it’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice.
However, if you prefer the convenience of ready-made kombucha its increasing popularity is making kombucha more and more easy to come by.
Whether you’re brewing at home or picking up a bottle from your local shop, kombucha is a delicious and easy way to improve your well-being.
Give it a try and discover how this fizzy, fermented tea can become a favourite part of your health journey.
If you would like to chat with me about your unique menopause transition, book a Wild Well-Being call and come away inspired and motivated to begin your journey to optimal health.