Hazel Catkin Soda, a simple, lively, and aromatic drink that combines the sparkle of water kefir with the wild delicacy of catkins. Perfect for bottling spring, made with fermentation and foraging. Hazel catkins are the male inflorescences of the plant. They appear as small soft, pendulous cylinders, yellow-green in color. To the touch, they are light and crumbly, and when shaken, they release a fine pollen. They are ripe when they begin to "crumble" easily between the fingers. The best time to collect them is between February and March (depending on the area), during flowering. At this time, besides the catkins, you might also notice the female flowers: they are very small and look like buds from which bright red filaments emerge. If you see them, you are at the right time. During the second fermentation, the catkins release unique scents, between hazelnut, wild honey, and resin. The result is a delicate, floral, and springtime drink that tells the story of the forest.
Collect fresh hazel catkins during the flowering period, preferably between February and March, choosing plants far from pollution sources.
Gently wash the catkins and place them in a clean glass container, such as a bottle with a swing-top cap.
Add the water kefir and (optional) brown sugar to the container with the catkins.
Stir well to dissolve the sugar and cover the container with a breathable cloth.
Let ferment at room temperature for 2-3 days, until the drink becomes sparkling and aromatic.
Strain the soda to remove the catkins and transfer the beverage into glass bottles with airtight closures.
Store in the refrigerator and consume within a few days to maintain freshness and fizziness. Be careful with pressure: check the bottle every 24 hours and open cautiously.
It can be enjoyed on its own or enhanced with a slice of lemon or other fresh seasonal flavors.
Glass bottle with swing-top cap
Store in the refrigerator and consume within a few days to maintain freshness and fizziness.
Recommended to use TIBI birch, pineapple, and fennel water kefir for a richer aroma. Excellent to drink alone or with slices of lemon or seasonal flowers.
Italia, Piemonte
| Energy (kcal) | 9.74 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 2.6 |
| of which Sugars (g) | 2.6 |
