Ginger Kombucha Moscow Mule (3-Ingredient Cocktail)

After a brief hiatus, it’s time to reinstate one of my favorite monthly traditions on the blog.. the Recipe Redux! And this month’s theme is creating quite the buzz (literally)..

We’re seeing probiotic cocktails and gut-health mocktails popping up on trendy drink menus. Show us your favorite way to bring these healthy beverages onto your own kitchen cocktail menu.

By now, you’re probably at least somewhat familiar with the term “probiotics”. If you’ve taken a stroll down the pharmacy aisle of your local supermarket recently (or turned on your television, for that matter), you’ve probably encountered bottles of probiotics on shelves or in advertisements. But, what exactly are probiotics.. and why the heck would you want them in your drink?!

In the simplest sense, the term “probiotics” refers to a variety of strains of live bacteria that play important roles in human health. These “good” bacteria reside in the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract and help to regulate digestive function, reduce inflammation, and stave off illness and disease. While probiotics are frequently marketed to consumers in the form of supplements, the majority of beneficial probiotic strains may be easily obtained through a variety of food sources, including yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, sourdough bread, and kombucha. Consuming these foods on a regular basis helps to maintain a desirable balance of gut bacteria by repopulating the intestine with “good” bacteria.

 

While yogurt has been a part of my diet for as long as I can remember, kombucha has only recently started making a frequent appearance in my grocery cart. A combination of bacteria, yeast and sugar, this fermented tea beverage has a slightly tart, slightly sweet flavor profile that is great on its own.. or mixed into cocktails!

Let’s be honest, though.. if you’re reaching for an alcoholic beverage, chances are that gut health is probably one of the last things on your mind (and that’s okay!) But, that doesn’t mean that you should dismiss this recipe quite yet. There are plenty of other reasons to add some booch to your happy hour festivities..

1. It’s lower in added sugar than many traditional cocktail mixers (including ginger beer). The lower sugar content not only contributes fewer calories per drink, but may also help ward off some of those nasty hangover symptoms that may result from indulging in a few too many sugary alcoholic beverages (not that I’m speaking from personal experience or anything..)

2. It’s got just the right amount of fizz. If there’s one thing that most cocktail mixers have in common, it’s carbonation. Over the years, I’ve noticed that the large amounts of carbonation found in most sodas and other sparkling beverages tend to exacerbate my IBS symptoms (which leaves my cocktail options rather limited). Fortunately, I found that kombucha has just enough fizz to provide that desirable thirst-quenching bubbly sensation, while keeping my digestive symptoms at bay.

3. It’s tangy, yet sweet (and available in a variety of flavors!). Traditional kombucha has a tangy, acidic, and lightly sweet taste that some equate to a sparkling apple cider vinegar. To the average consumer, this unique flavor profile can be rather aggressive and slightly off-putting.. which is why most mainstream brands have begun adding all sorts of flavor enhancers to their kombuchas. From spicy ginger to fruity and floral, there’s a kombucha for pretty much every palate; try a variety of flavors and brands to find the ones that appeal the most to you. Just keep in mind that the sugar content may vary depending on the brand and flavor – so be sure to check the label if you’re trying to keep added sugars low.

 

If you’re in the market for an easy summer drink, then look no further. Made with just 3 simple ingredients, this Ginger Kombucha Moscow Mule is impressive enough to serve at parties, yet casual enough for relaxing night at home. Simply combine kombucha, vodka and lime and serve over ice for a refreshing summer cocktail!

As always, let me know if you give this recipe a try. Shoot me a message below or tag @rootstorisenutrition on social media so I can admire your creations. Cheers!