Spring is in the air, flowers are starting to bloom and people are unpacking their warm weather wardrobes. This also means that bbqs and outdoor parties are going to be in full swing! I try to be a good guest and bring something with, either a small gift for the host or something for all of the guests to enjoy. I wanted to bring a fun, light drink to share and so this Kombucha Sangria was born.
Kombucha is a favorite of mine not only for its wonderfully unique flavor and effervescence but also for its healing benefits. Kombucha is said to aid in digestion, boost immune function and help cleanse the body. For those of you who are not familiar with this special drink, in its most basic sense it is a fermented tea beverage. The ingredients include tea, sugar and a SCOBY. The kombucha SCOBY is made up of bacteria and yeast, it is also called a "mushroom" or the "mother." The yeast and bacteria metabolize the sugar and in turn create lactic acid, B vitamins, alcohol, active enzymes and probiotics. It is considered low-glycemic since most of the sugar is consumed during the fermentation process. It's the goodness that the fermentation process brings out, that makes it so great for our gut. Kombucha is loaded with probiotics (good bacteria) that help improve digestion. I brew my own kombucha at home but a store bought brand would work just as well for this recipe.
Some might wonder, why mix a healing beverage with alcohol? Because I can that's why : ) I consider myself to be a Flexitarian. Meaning I don't follow one strict diet, instead I focus on eating a diet mainly of nutrient dense, whole foods. I also believe in the 80/20 lifestyle, I eat healthy nourishing foods most of the time and allow myself to indulge in less nourishing foods on occasion. Life is a balance people! We shouldn't deprive ourselves of things we genuinely enjoy, as long as they are consumed in MODERATION. The key point here being moderation.
Kombucha sangria is a perfect example of this blend of healthy indulgence and it is a wonderful healthy cocktail to share with friends! It is also a great way to use some of the amazing stone fruit that is now in season.
- 1 bottle rosé wine
- 4 cups of kombucha (original or flavored)
- 2 nectarines
- 1 orange
- 1 apple
- 2 lemons
- champagne (optional)
Directions:
Leaving the skin/peel on, dice up all of the fruit. In a large pitcher combine the fruit, wine, kombucha and stir. Refrigerate and chill until serving. For additional fizz and sparkle, pour a champagne topper on the mix just before serving.
To make this a non-alcoholic beverage, omit the wine and simply swap in another 4 cups of kombucha and 1 cup of sparkling water.
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