Description
Homemade dandelion soda brings wild botanical charm to summer refreshment. Sweet floral notes dance through fizzy liquid, inviting countryside memories and delightful herbal pleasure for curious beverage explorers.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients:
- 2 cups dandelion petals (green parts removed)
- ½ gallon (1.9 liters) water
- ½ cup sugar (white or cane)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 orange (juice, optional)
- 1 small piece fresh ginger (optional)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
- 12 quart-sized glass jars or ½-gallon jar
- Cloth or coffee filter
- Rubber band
Instructions
- Embark on a foraging adventure in a pristine, chemical-free landscape, carefully selecting vibrant dandelion blossoms. Gently separate the golden petals from their verdant bases, discarding the bitter green parts to ensure a smooth, delightful beverage.
- In a generous cooking vessel, bring water to a gentle simmer. Dissolve sugar completely, creating a sweet foundation. Remove from heat and introduce a medley of dandelion petals, bright citrus zest and juice, aromatic ginger, and a whisper of sea salt.
- Allow the infusion to cool naturally to ambient temperature, transforming the liquid into a potential probiotic elixir. Transfer the golden mixture into a sanitized glass container, draping it with a breathable cloth or coffee filter secured by an elastic band.
- Position the vessel in a consistent, warm environment (between 65-75°F) for a transformative 2-3 day fermentation period. Monitor the developing character by sampling periodically, seeking a subtle effervescence and tangy undertone.
- Once the desired flavor profile emerges, carefully strain the liquid through a fine mesh or cheesecloth. Decant the vibrant brew into sterilized swing-top or screw-cap vessels, preparing for chilled enjoyment.
- Refrigerate the completed soda, consuming within a week. Exercise caution when opening, as natural carbonation can create internal pressure. Serve elegantly over crystalline ice cubes, celebrating your artisanal creation.
Notes
- Carefully select dandelion flowers from pesticide-free areas to ensure a clean, chemical-free base for your soda.
- Remove only the bright yellow petals, avoiding the bitter green parts that can negatively impact the drink’s flavor profile.
- Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for unique taste variations and alternative dietary needs.
- Use filtered or spring water to enhance the delicate floral notes and prevent any unwanted mineral interference during fermentation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 days
- Category: Drinks, Cocktails
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 0.5 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg