Ingredients
- 5 Strawberrieswhole
- 1/2 teaspoons of basil or a small handful of fresh basil
- 1/4 cup of sugarwhite refined
- 1/4 cup of water
Directions
Basil is a very common herb that is used in many dishes, especially Italian dishes. But if you take a closer look at basil, you will see that it has several beneficial health properties as well as the delicious taste. Basil can be used to reduce swelling, an anti-aging resource, and it’s also high in antioxidants. Basil also has vitamin A, K, and C as well as magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron.
Strawberries bring their own set of nutritional value which includes vitamin C, fiber, manganese, folate, potassium and more. Strawberries can improve vision problems such as slowing down the degeneration of the optic nerve, help with dry eyes, and prevent infections from developing. Strawberries also boost the immune system and aids in relief of arthritis and gout.
Kombucha is a great healthy alternative to sodas and sugary drinks. Kombucha contains good bacteria and yeast which can break down the sugar in Kombucha so there is no sugar left after the fermentation process is complete. Once the fermentation process if complete, kombucha becomes a carbonated fluid with holds many of the B vitamins, vinegar, and enzymes. It also contains probiotics which holds healthy benefits such as immune support, weight loss, cancer prevention, and improved digestion.
Before you begin to make kombucha, you must have an active ingredient called a Scoby, or Symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast. The entire process can take approximately ten days. There are two fermentation processes; the first process takes seven days and the second process takes three. Don’t add flavoring until you are ready to begin the second fermentation process.
Equipment you will need for Basil and Strawberry Flavored Kombucha
* saucepan, small to medium in size
* stirring spoon
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Knife, for preparing strawberries and basil
* Blender
* 6-8 ounce bottles, washed thoroughly
* Funnel, small
Steps
1 Done | Ferment kombuchaFollow the recipe to complete the first fermentation process. Remove the Scoby and prepare step 2. |
2 Done 5 minutes | Prepare the strawberriesEven fresh strawberries should be washed before preparing. Once they are washed, pat them gently to dry. Cut each berry into bite sized pieces. |
3 Done 5 minutes | Prepare the BasilIf you are using fresh basil, rinse the basil carefully and pat dry. Chop the basil into small pieces and place them in the saucepan. |
4 Done 3 minutes | Add other ingredientsAdd the water and sugar to the saucepan and stir all the ingredients |
5 Done 10 minutes | Cook IngredientsAll the basil and strawberries to cook down until the strawberries are softened. Remove from heat. |
6 Done 4 minutes | BlendAdd ingredients into a blender and blend or puree it all together. Pour into jars. |
7 Done 2 minutes | Fill the BottlesUsing your funnel, pour the mixture evenly into each bottle |
8 Done 2 minutes | Add KombuchaFill the remainder of the bottle with kombucha, leaving about one inch from the top then place the lid on the bottles |
9 Done 3 days | Begin Second Fermentation ProcessPlace the bottles into a dark location for three days. |
10 Done | Refrigerate or drink and enjoy! |
