why make this recipe
Dandelion soda is a delightful and refreshing drink that brings a taste of nature right to your home. It’s a fun way to use dandelions, which are often seen as weeds, but are actually packed with flavor and nutrients. Making your own soda not only allows you to control the ingredients, but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment. Plus, it’s a unique drink to share with friends and family!
how to make Dandelion Soda
Ingredients:
- 2-4 packed cups dandelion petals
- 4 cups water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon chopped ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest or peel (optional)
- 1/2 cup ginger bug starter
- 2 cups room temperature water
Directions:
- Start by harvesting about 4 cups of dandelion flowers in a chemical-free area. Carefully pick the yellow petals and discard the rest of the flower and stem. You will need at least two packed cups of petals.
- Place the petals in a wide-mouth mason jar. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil and pour it over the dandelion petals. Swirl some hot water in the jar to prevent cracking. Cover the jar and allow the dandelion tea to steep overnight.
- The next day, strain out the petals and gently reheat the tea, being careful not to boil. Add the sugar, chopped ginger, and lemon zest. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Allow this syrup to cool completely.
- Pour your sweetened dandelion tea/syrup into flip-top bottles. Add the ginger bug starter and room temperature water. Gently swirl to combine, then cap the bottles and place them at room temperature to ferment and carbonate. Your ginger bug is a strong starter culture, so carbonation can take from one day to one week. In warm weather, check after one day.
- Carefully check on your soda each day. When it has enough carbonation (the top will pop when you open it and you may see bubbles), transfer the soda to the refrigerator. Drink within a few days.
how to serve Dandelion Soda
Dandelion soda is best enjoyed chilled. Pour it into glasses over ice or serve it straight from the fridge. It has a beautiful golden color and is perfect for warm days or as a special treat. You can add a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for an extra touch!
how to store Dandelion Soda
Store your dandelion soda in the refrigerator after it has fermented and carbonated. It’s best to drink it within a few days for the best flavor and fizz. Make sure the bottles are tightly capped to keep the carbonation intact.
tips to make Dandelion Soda
- Use organic or wild dandelions to avoid chemicals.
- Be sure to rinse the petals in cold water to remove any dirt or bugs before using them.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. You can use less if you want a less sweet soda.
- If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, increase the chopped ginger in the recipe.
variation (if any)
You can try adding different herbs or fruits to your dandelion soda. For a fruity twist, consider adding a handful of berries or a splash of juice to the mix before fermenting. Experiment to find your favorite flavors!
FAQs
1. Can I use dandelion roots instead of petals?
No, this recipe specifically uses the petals, which provide the right flavor. Dandelion roots can be used in other recipes, but they will not work for soda.
2. What is a ginger bug?
A ginger bug is a natural starter culture made from ginger, sugar, and water. It helps fermentation and carbonation in homemade sodas. You can make one easily at home!
3. How can I tell if my soda is fermenting properly?
You will know your soda is fermenting when bubbles form in the liquid, and the bottle feels pressurized. Open it carefully to check for the “pop” sound, which indicates proper carbonation.
Dandelion Soda
Ingredients
Method
- Harvest about 4 cups of dandelion flowers in a chemical-free area, carefully picking the yellow petals and discarding the rest of the flower and stem. You will need at least two packed cups of petals.
- Place the petals in a wide-mouth mason jar. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil and pour it over the dandelion petals. Swirl some hot water in the jar to prevent cracking. Cover the jar and allow the dandelion tea to steep overnight.
- The next day, strain out the petals and gently reheat the tea, being careful not to boil. Add the sugar, chopped ginger, and lemon zest. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and allow this syrup to cool completely.
- Pour your sweetened dandelion tea/syrup into flip-top bottles. Add the ginger bug starter and room temperature water. Gently swirl to combine.
- Cap the bottles and place them at room temperature to ferment and carbonate. Check after one day in warm weather.
- Carefully check on your soda each day. When it has enough carbonation, transfer to the refrigerator. Drink within a few days for the best flavor.