It's no secret that high levels of intestinal microflora and fauna (i.e. good bacteria!) are essential for overall good health. Kombucha has totally taken off and here I have a recipe for a drink that is entirely similar to kombucha, with similar probiotic health benefits, but no live SCOBY mushroom culture is needed. You can make it right in the comfort of your own home.

Drinking this homemade kombucha-like Pineapple Probiotic Drink is a super EASY, super CHEAP, and delicious way to increase healthy gut microbes.

This drink will literally cost you .25 cents, maybe less, plus a half hour of your time taking up this new hobby -- compared to the $4-5 kombucha sold in grocery stores. Rejoice!

Pineapple Tepache Probiotic Drink

1 whole pineapple, unwashed
3/4 cup light brown sugar
12 cups filtered water
1 gallon-sized mason jar - purchase here: http://amzn.to/2m8EPge

METHOD

Short Version: Add stuff to jar, let sit for a week, pour into smaller jars and refrigerate.

Step-by Step:

1. Cut your whole pineapple into chunks, leaving the rind in tact. Do not wash the pineapple - there is natural bacteria on the outside of the rind that is necessary to get the fermentation process going!

2. Add pineapple chunks and brown sugar to the Ball jar. This seems like a lot of sugar, but I assure you, the bacteria eats the sugar so there will be virtually none left in this drink when the fermentation process is over with.

3. Top with filtered water. You can use tap water, but filtered is always better.

4. Fit the top of the pineapple into the top of the jar, leaving airspace (see photo). The jar should not be fully closed at any point. Air must be able to penetrate inside the jar.

5. Place jar in a place where temperature will be 65-70 degrees (Fahrenheit). This warmer temperature is required to activate the fermentation process. In the winter, I put my jar on top of my refrigerator.

6. Wait for the fermentation process to begin - in 2-3 days you will see tiny bubbles coming up from the bottom. It's working!!! Let sit for a total of 7 days.

7. After 7 days, pour the Pineapple Probiotic Drink into smaller mason jars (I've also used leftover glass kombucha bottles). You can drink immediately, but leaving in the fridge for at least 3-4 days will encourage carbonation to form.

During the refrigeration stage, you can also add herbs to the bottles for added flavor and health benefits! I recommend: fresh rosemary or thyme, whole cloves, orange peels, or dried lavender buds.

Take your health to the next level! This drink is my favorite. It also makes a great base for gin and tequila cocktails ;)