Hey everyone, Robert Kline here! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of fermentation and creating our very own homemade vegan protein kombucha.
Kombucha, as many of you know, is a fermented tea drink that’s teeming with probiotics and has a wonderfully tangy flavor. Adding a protein boost not only enhances its nutritional value but also makes it a more satisfying and wholesome beverage.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with various kombucha recipes, always looking for ways to make it more delicious and beneficial. This recipe is one of my favorites as it combines the goodness of kombucha with a plant-based protein source, making it perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle.
Let’s get brewing!
Gathering Your Supplies
Before we begin, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Don’t worry, you won’t need any fancy gadgets!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of active kombucha SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast)
- 8 cups of filtered water
- 1/2 cup of organic cane sugar
- 3 black tea bags or 1 tbsp loose leaf black tea
- 1/4 cup vegan protein powder (your choice of flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 cup fruit juice or fruit puree for flavoring
Equipment:
- 1-gallon glass jar
- Breathable cloth cover (like cheesecloth)
- Rubber band
- Glass bottles for storing the finished kombucha
Step-by-Step Brewing Process
Step 1: Brewing the Base Kombucha:
- Start by brewing a strong pot of black tea. Bring the water to a boil, add the tea bags or loose leaf tea, and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags or strain the loose leaf tea and stir in the sugar until it’s completely dissolved.
- Allow the sweetened tea to cool down to room temperature. Pour it into your sterilized glass jar and add the SCOBY along with 1 cup of starter liquid from a previous batch of kombucha.
Step 2: The First Fermentation:
- Cover the jar with a breathable cloth and secure it with a rubber band. This allows for proper airflow while keeping dust and contaminants out.
- Place the jar in a warm, dark place, away from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for fermentation is between 70-80°F (21-27°C).
- Let the kombucha ferment for 7-10 days. The longer you ferment, the tangier it will become.
Step 3: Adding the Protein Boost:
- After the initial fermentation, carefully remove the SCOBY and 1 cup of kombucha for your next batch. Set them aside in a clean container.
- Now, gently stir in your chosen vegan protein powder until it’s completely dissolved. Be careful not to over-mix as this can introduce too much oxygen.
Step 4: The Second Fermentation (Flavoring and Carbonation):
- If you prefer flavored kombucha, this is the stage to add your desired fruit juice or puree.
- Funnel the kombucha into individual glass bottles, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Seal the bottles tightly.
- Leave the bottles at room temperature for another 2-3 days for a natural carbonation process.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Refreshing Brew!
- Once the kombucha is carbonated to your liking, it’s ready to enjoy! Store the bottles in the refrigerator to slow down further fermentation and enjoy them chilled.
Tips and Tricks from Robert Kline Art:
- SCOBY Source: You can easily find SCOBY online or at your local health food store. You can also get one from a friend who already brews kombucha.
- Protein Powder Choice: Experiment with different flavors of vegan protein powder to find your favorite combinations. I personally love vanilla, chocolate, and berry flavors.
- Flavoring Options: The sky’s the limit when it comes to flavoring your kombucha. Get creative with fresh fruits, herbs, or even spices.
- Carbonation Control: For a more intense fizz, try adding a few raisins or a pinch of sugar to each bottle before the second fermentation.
- Storage: Properly stored kombucha can last for several weeks in the refrigerator. However, it’s always best to check for any signs of mold or off-putting smells before consuming.
Conclusion
Making your own homemade vegan protein kombucha is a rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious and healthy beverage, but you also get to participate in the ancient art of fermentation. It’s a fantastic way to impress your friends and family while also taking care of your well-being. So go ahead, unleash your inner kombucha master and let me know how your brewing adventures go in the comments below!
If you enjoyed this recipe and want to explore more exciting DIY projects, head over to Robert Kline Art for more creative inspiration!