Curious about kombucha? Scared of SCOBY?

Put aside your hesitation and learn how to make this healthful, fermented drink at a Chicago Market workshop on April 29.

What is Kombucha?

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 naturally carbonated. It is so much better than soda! Next time you feel like grabbing a can of fizzy drink with aspartame and caramel coloring, reach instead for a drink rich in B vitamins and probiotic bacteria that helps to heal your gut and build your immunity. Kombucha contains a variety of vitamins, minerals and enzymes and has been said to help the body in a variety of ways, including:

• liver detoxification

• improved pancreatic function

• increased energy

• better digestion

• improved mood (helps with anxiety/depression)

• kills Candida (yeast)

• helps nutrient assimilation

• weight loss

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.

Click here for more information and to register for the event.