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Have you ever considered combining kombucha with the nutritional power of hemp? Hemp kombucha is a flavorful, nutrient-rich twist on traditional kombucha that’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their home brewing game. Hemp seeds add a boost of omega-3s, protein, and antioxidants to the probiotic-rich goodness of kombucha, making it both delicious and healthy.
This guide teaches you how to make hemp kombucha at home. It includes a step-by-step recipe, helpful tips, and flavouring ideas for creating the perfect brew.
What is hemp kombucha?
Hemp kombucha is simply kombucha infused with hemp. This infusion can occur in several ways, including adding hemp leaves or flowers during the initial brewing process and hemp extracts, like CBD oil, after fermentation.
This combination brings together the probiotics and organic acids of kombucha with the potential benefits of hemp compounds.
Now that we understand hemp kombucha, let's explore why people combine these two potent ingredients.
Benefits of combining hemp and kombucha
Both kombucha and hemp are known for their potential health benefits. Kombucha is a source of probiotics, which can support gut health. Hemp, particularly CBD, is being studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and calming properties. Combining these two creates a drink that offers a unique blend of benefits.
Here’s why you should give it a try:
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Nutrient powerhouse: Hemp seeds are rich in protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential vitamins.
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Probiotic boost: Kombucha promotes gut health with its live probiotic cultures.
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Flavor versatility: The nutty taste of hemp blends beautifully with kombucha’s tangy fizz.
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Simple to make: This drink can be easily made at home with a few basic ingredients and tools.
Also read: High-Fiber Snacks Recipes to Keep You Full All Day
Before we start brewing, it's important to address the legal considerations surrounding hemp kombucha.
Is hemp kombucha legal?
The legality of hemp kombucha depends on the specific hemp product used and local regulations. In many regions, kombucha made with hemp containing less than 0.3% THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) is legal. Before brewing, it's crucial to check your local laws and regulations on hemp products.
With the legalities clarified, let's gather the necessary ingredients to begin our brewing journey.
Ingredients you’ll need for your hemp kombucha drink recipe
Ready to start brewing? Here's what you'll need for this hemp kombucha drink recipe:
1. Starter tea
Starter tea is a cup of strong, brewed tea that forms the base of your kombucha. Black or green tea is most commonly used, as they provide the nutrients needed for fermentation.
Why it’s important: Tea contains tannins and other compounds that support the growth of the SCOBY and enhance the flavour of the kombucha.
How to prepare: Brew 1 cup of tea using loose-leaf tea or tea bags. Steep for 5–7 minutes and let it cool to room temperature before adding it to your brewing vessel.
2. Sugar
Organic cane sugar is used to feed the SCOBY during fermentation. The live culture breaks down the sugar, leaving only trace amounts in the final brew.
Why it’s important: Sugar is essential for fermentation. It fuels the growth of probiotics and helps develop kombucha's tangy flavour.
How much sugar do you need? Use 1 cup of sugar per gallon of kombucha. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved in the tea before fermentation.
3. SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast)
The SCOBY is a live culture that ferments the sweet tea, transforming it into kombucha. It’s the heart of the brewing process.
Why it’s important: The SCOBY produces probiotics, organic acids, and other compounds that make kombucha beneficial for gut health.
How to obtain one: You can:
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Get a SCOBY from a friend who brews kombucha.
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Purchase a SCOBY online from reputable sellers.
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Grow your SCOBY using raw, unflavored kombucha (this process takes about 2–4 weeks).
4. Hemp
Dried hemp leaves or flowers, or hemp extract, are added to kombucha to infuse it with nutrients such as omega-3s, antioxidants, and terpenes.
Why it’s important: Hemp adds a subtle earthy flavour and enhances the health benefits of kombucha, particularly for relaxation and inflammation reduction.
How to use it:
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Dried hemp leaves/flowers: Use 2–3 grams during fermentation for a mild infusion.
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Hemp extract: Add a few drops after fermentation to avoid interfering with the SCOBY’s activity.
Ensure you’re using food-grade hemp products that comply with local regulations.
5. Water
Filtered water serves as the base for brewing kombucha. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can harm the SCOBY.
Why it’s important: Clean water ensures a safe fermentation process and preserves the kombucha’s flavour.
How much you need: Use 8 cups of filtered water per gallon of kombucha.
6. Brewing vessel
A large glass jar (at least one gallon) serves as the container for fermenting your kombucha.
Why it’s important: Glass is non-reactive and won’t interfere with the fermentation process. Avoid using plastic or metal, as these materials can leach harmful substances or react with the acidic kombucha.
7. Cloth cover and rubber band
A breathable cloth (such as a clean cheesecloth or coffee filter) is used to cover the jar, which is secured with a rubber band.
Why it’s important: The cloth allows airflow for fermentation while keeping out contaminants like dust, fruit flies, and other insects.
How to use it: Place the cloth over the jar and secure it tightly with a rubber band.
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Now that you have all the ingredients let's move on to the actual brewing process.
Brewing your hemp kombucha: Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s dive into the brewing process. Follow these steps for a successful brew:
1. Brew the Sweet Tea
Begin by brewing a strong cup of tea. Boil water and steep your chosen tea leaves (black or green) for 15-20 minutes to extract the maximum flavour. Remove the tea bags or strain the loose-leaf tea.
3. Cool the Tea
Allow the sweetened tea to cool completely to room temperature before proceeding. Hot temperatures can damage the delicate SCOBY and hinder the fermentation process. Patience is key at this stage.
4. Prepare the Brewing Vessel
Clean your glass jar thoroughly with hot, soapy water and rinse well. This ensures a clean environment for the SCOBY to thrive.
5. Combine Ingredients
Pour the cooled sweet tea into the prepared jar. Next, add the starter tea from a previous kombucha batch. This starter tea provides the initial acidity and introduces beneficial bacteria and yeast, kickstarting the fermentation process. If you're using dried hemp leaves or flowers, add them to the jar at this stage.
6. Introduce the SCOBY
Gently place the SCOBY into the jar containing the tea mixture. Handle the SCOBY with care to avoid damaging it.
7. Cover and Ferment
Cover the jar with a breathable cloth such as cheesecloth or a thin cotton cloth. Secure the cloth with a rubber band. This allows for air exchange while preventing contamination from dust and insects. Find a dark, undisturbed location with a consistent temperature between 70-75°F (21-24°C) for the first fermentation.
8. First Fermentation
The first fermentation typically takes 7-30 days. The duration depends on factors like temperature, the strength of the SCOBY, and your desired level of tartness. The longer the fermentation, the more tart and acidic the kombucha will become.
9. Taste and Monitor
After seven days, begin tasting your kombucha daily. Use a clean straw to draw a small sample from the jar, avoiding disturbing the SCOBY. Observe the taste and note any changes in flavour. Once the kombucha reaches your preferred level of tartness, it's ready for the next step, which is optional.
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Once the first fermentation is complete, it's time to add flavours and create carbonation during the second fermentation.
Second fermentation (F2) and flavoring
The second fermentation is where you can add flavours and create carbonation. Here’s how:
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Remove the scoby and starter tea: Carefully remove the SCOBY and about one cup of the kombucha (this will be your starter tea for your next batch). Store the SCOBY in a small amount of starter tea in a covered container in the refrigerator.
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Add flavouring ingredients: Pour the remaining kombucha into airtight bottles. Add your desired flavouring ingredients. If you didn’t add hemp during the first fermentation, you can add hemp extract (like CBD oil) at this stage.
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Second fermentation (f2): Seal the bottles and let them sit at room temperature for 1-3 days for carbonation to develop. Check the bottles regularly to release any excess pressure.
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Refrigerate and enjoy: Once the bottles are carbonated to your liking, refrigerate them to slow down fermentation and enjoy your homemade hemp kombucha!
Need some inspiration for flavouring your brew? Here are a few ideas.
Flavouring ideas for your hemp kombucha
Here are a few flavour combinations to inspire you:
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Ginger and lemon: A classic kombucha flavour that pair well with hemp.
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Berry and mint: A refreshing and fruity combination.
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Tropical fruit blend: Pineapple, mango, and passion fruit create a tropical twist.
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Citrus burst: Mix in orange, lemon, or lime slices to brighten the kombucha’s tangy notes.
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Herbal infusion: Add fresh mint leaves, basil, or ginger slices for a soothing, aromatic kick.
To ensure a smooth brewing process, here are some helpful tips.
Tips for successful hemp kombucha brewing
Here are some additional tips for brewing success:
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Sanitation: Always use clean equipment to prevent mold or unwanted bacteria growth.
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Use quality ingredients: Use filtered water, organic sugar, and high-quality tea and hemp.
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Monitor the fermentation process: Keep an eye on your kombucha during fermentation and taste-test regularly.
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Be patient: Fermentation takes time. Don't rush the process.
Even with careful preparation, you might encounter some common kombucha brewing issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them.
Troubleshooting common kombucha problems
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Mold: If you see fuzzy mould growing on the SCOBY or in the kombucha, discard the entire batch.
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Fruit flies: Use a tightly woven cloth cover to prevent fruit flies from getting into your kombucha.
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Weak carbonation: Ensure your bottles are airtight and that the second fermentation is done at room temperature.
Finally, let’s talk about how to enjoy your finished product.
Now that you've brewed your hemp kombucha, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labour! Serve it chilled and experiment with different flavour combinations to find your perfect brew. Remember to start with small amounts, especially if you’re new to kombucha or hemp products.
With a little practice, you’ll be brewing delicious and refreshing hemp kombucha in no time. This homemade hemp kombucha recipe offers a fun and rewarding way to combine the benefits of two powerful natural ingredients. So, gather your supplies, follow these steps, and enjoy the process of creating your unique brew.
For the best results, use high-quality ingredients like The Good Bug kombucha starter and experiment with flavours to find your favourite combination. Start brewing today and experience the benefits of this healthy and delicious drink!
References:
https://premiumjaneau.com/blog/how-to-make-hemp-kombucha/
https://www.nourishmeorganics.com.au/blogs/recipes/homemade-hemp-kombucha
https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_make_kombucha_at_home/
