8 kombucha flavours to try

Kombucha, a fermented tea enjoyed for centuries, has recently gained popularity as a health drink. What's great about kombucha is that it can be flavoured in a variety of ways, allowing you to experiment and find your perfect match. In this article, we'll be looking at the top eight kombucha flavours that are easy to make at home: ginger, lemon, pineapple, strawberry, peach, apple, orange and carrot. By trying out these recipes, you'll have the chance to discover exciting new flavours and health benefits.

What is kombucha?

Kombucha originates from China and is a fermented drink produced by steeping black or green tea in sugar and adding a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. People in China, Mongolia and Russia have been consuming it for over 2,000 years, but it has only recently gained popularity as a commercial product due to its perceived health benefits.

Kombucha has a unique, tangy flavour. The fermentation process creates a ‘fungus’ that resembles a mushroom, leading to Kombucha's common nickname of 'mushroom tea'. The drink consists of live bacteria like Acetobacter and Pichia, and yeasts like Saccharomyces, Zygosaccharomyces and Brettanomyces. These microorganisms are mixed with tea and sugar for about 10 days, producing a slightly sparkling and mildly alcoholic juice that is similar in taste to cider.

How to make kombucha 

Making your kombucha at home is a fun and exciting way to add a healthy, probiotic-rich drink to your daily routine. It is a rewarding experience and allows you to experiment with different flavours and find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds.

If you're new to the world of kombucha, our article will guide you step-by-step on creating your own delicious kombucha at home. We'll also provide tips on how to customise the taste to suit your preferences so that you can enjoy the perfect glass of kombucha every time.

Ginger kombucha

Kombucha and ginger are a match made in heaven. Kombucha is delightfully tart and fizzy; ginger brings a warm, spicy, side-kick punch. The flavour is similar to classic ginger beer but with a decidedly tart finish. 

This ginger kombucha recipe from Nourished Kitchen is always a favourite with its sweet, tart flavour and a spicy edge. It's an easy recipe to follow and a great way to give a little life to your homemade kombucha.

Lemon ginger kombucha

Lemon ginger kombucha is a trendy flavour variant of kombucha. Lemon and ginger not only impart a zesty and refreshing flavour to the kombucha, but they also have potential health benefits. Lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C, whilst ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Combining these two flavours with the probiotics found in kombucha creates a tasty and potentially healthful beverage.

Making your own lemon ginger kombucha is super easy. You first need to brew a batch of plain kombucha. Once the kombucha is ready, add lemon juice and ginger for flavouring.

If this still sounds tricky, no worries. Check out the easy-peasy lemon ginger kombucha recipe from Live Eat Learn, which will guide you through making it at home.

Pineapple kombucha

Pineapple kombucha is a refreshing and health-promoting drink that everyone can enjoy. This kombucha flavour is made with pineapple juice, giving it a slightly sweet and sour taste. If you're looking for a probiotic-rich beverage that tastes great and is good for you, try pineapple kombucha. Today, pineapple kombucha is available in many shops but is also easy to make at home. With just a few simple supplies and a bit of patience, you can enjoy delicious, homemade pineapple kombucha anytime. If you are curious about how to make pineapple kombucha, follow this recipe from Talk Leisure.

Strawberry kombucha

Infused with the natural sweetness and tang of fresh strawberries, this delightful and refreshing twist on the classic fermented tea beverage, strawberry kombucha offers an irresistible fusion of fruity flavour and effervescence. It not only delights the palate but is a tasty treat and healthy addition to your daily routine. Whether savouring it as a refreshing pick-me-up or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this vibrant drink is an enticing option for kombucha enthusiasts and newcomers alike. To make it at home, check out this straightforward strawberry kombucha recipe from Live Eat Learn, which provides a guide for a fuss-free experience.

Peach kombucha

Peach kombucha, infused with the delightful essence and fragrance of succulent peaches, is an enjoyable twist on the traditional fermented tea drink, merging fruity notes with a lively fizz. Peach kombucha makes a tasty and healthy choice for your daily routine, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or for sharing with friends at get-togethers, whether you're a long-time kombucha fan or just giving it a try.  Check out the easy peach kombucha recipe from Create Mindfully, complete with step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process of making your own peach kombucha at home.

Apple cinnamon kombucha

Apple cinnamon kombucha is a delightful variation of the traditional fermented tea beverage, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the crisp sweetness of apples. This unique flavour combination creates a soothing and refreshing drink, perfect for enjoying during the cooler months or whenever you fancy a comforting yet invigorating beverage.

If you are interested in making apple cinnamon kombucha at home, the Cultures for Health website offers a recipe that guides you through the process to create a delicious, homemade apple cinnamon kombucha that showcases the delightful fusion of these two classic flavours.

Orange kombucha 

Orange kombucha is an enticing variation of the traditional fermented tea beverage, blending the zesty tang of oranges with the effervescence of kombucha. This vibrant and refreshing concoction is perfect for enjoying on a warm day or whenever you're in the mood for a refreshing citrus-infused beverage. If you're keen on making orange kombucha at home, the Kombucha Journal website features a step-by-step recipe to guide you through the process.

Carrot kombucha

Carrot kombucha is a captivating twist on the classic fermented tea drink, blending the earthy sweetness of carrots with the effervescence of kombucha. This refreshing and invigorating beverage is perfect for those seeking an exciting and nourishing alternative to traditional kombucha.

The Cultured Food Life website features a detailed recipe if you fancy making carrot kombucha at home. You can produce a delicious, homemade carrot kombucha that showcases the vibrant essence of this unusual and refreshing flavour combination.