Everywhere you look, there's something bubbling, pickling, or fizzing away whether its on TV, social media or on the supermarket shelves.
From the ancient traditions of sauerkraut and kimchi to the trendy rise of kombucha and kefir, there's a BIG explosion of tangy, probiotic-rich delights everywhere you look.
Honestly, it can be a bit overwhelming! If you're new to fermented foods, where do you even begin?
Even with drinks, it's easy to get lost in the terminology of SCOBYs and confused by all those odd grains and weird and wonderful jars and are left wondering which fermented marvel is right for you.
Three of the most popular fermented drinks are kombucha and kefir. Each brings its own unique flavour, texture, and health benefits. But which one deserves a place in your daily routine?
Fermentation, in simple terms, is when little microorganisms, like bacteria and yeast, get to work on sugars and starches, producing acids, gases, or alcohol. It's how we get everything from a good pint to those lovely sour pickles. And, of course, our fermented contenders, kefir and kombucha.
First up, kombucha!
Kombucha, that fizzy, slightly vinegary drink, has become quite the trend. It's made by fermenting sweetened tea with a SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast). This creates a drink full of probiotics, antioxidants, and a slightly acidic tang.
The fermentation facts:
The SCOBY turns the sugar and tea into organic acids, including acetic acid (that's the vinegar flavour).
The benefits of kombuhca
Many people find kombucha helps with digestion, gut health, and just feeling generally better. It's also a great alternative to sugary fizzy drinks.
Next, kefir!
Kefir can come in a milk or water based liquid. A creamy, tangy drink, is made by fermenting milk (or water) with kefir grains, which are a mix of bacteria and yeast. It's thicker than kombucha and packed with probiotics.
The fermentation facts
Kefir grains have a wide variety of microorganisms, leading to a complex fermentation and lots of probiotics.
What are the benefits of Kefir
Kefir is often praised for its gut-boosting properties, and some studies suggest it might help with bone health and the immune system.
Water kefir is a refreshing, probiotic-rich beverage created through the fermentation of sugar water with water kefir grains, also known as tibicos.
These grains, which are actually symbiotic cultures of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), transform the sugary liquid into a lightly carbonated, tangy drink.
Unlike traditional milk kefir, water kefir is dairy-free, making it a suitable option for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.
The resulting beverage is not only hydrating but also contains a diverse range of beneficial bacteria, which can contribute to improved gut health.
Furthermore, water kefir's versatility allows for various flavour additions, such as fruits and herbs, enhancing its taste and nutritional profile. But you will need to add that in.
So, which fermented drink is the best?
Each one has its own unique benefits and flavours.
Kefir, with its creamy texture and lots of probiotics, is great for those wanting a strong gut boost. But that yoghurty flavour may not be what you want to drink all day.
Water kefir, you're going to need to buy expensive berries to help flavour it.
For ease of drinking throughout the working day, kombucha has always been a clear winner for me.
It’s easy to drink at any time of the day. Plus the refreshing fizz and slightly sweet tang is a great pick me up.
Whether you love kombucha, kefir, or water kefir, your gut will thank you!