Kombucha is an ancient fermented tea drink, which has been known for centuries in various forms in many different cultures. It has been highly prized for its health-promoting properties.
It originates from China, where it was nicknamed the "elixir of life."
Kombucha is sold at many health food stores and grocery stores, but it can be made at home for pennies by fermenting organic black tea and sugar with a starter culture called a SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast). The fermentation process takes 7-12 days, depending on temperature and the strength of the starter culture. Over 90 percent of the sugar is used up in the fermentation process. The result is a natural, nutrient-rich, low-sugar beverage.
Chicago Market is excited to offer you a workshop to learn more about how to make your own kombucha, as well as Ginger Bug Soda, Water Kefir, fermented soda, and other delicious alternatives to commercial carbonated beverages. In the workshop Tamara Mannelly will demonstrate different recipes for making healthy, probiotic-rich, fizzy drinks that your whole family will enjoy. She will have plenty for you to taste and will show you how easy and practical it is to make these in your own home. You will take home notes, recipes and a kombucha SCOBY - everything you need to make your own kombucha tea at home.