Turmeric Bug
A ginger bug is like a sourdough starter for drinks, building a probiotic culture over days of feeding. Once active, it naturally carbonates teas, juices, or sodas. Our turmeric version boosts immunity with the antimicrobial power of ginger and turmeric plus gut-friendly bacteria.
Takes 5 days
Serves 1
Ingredients
- 100 g fresh turmeric optional, for immune-boosting version
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 500 ml water
Daily Feeding (for 5 days):
- 10 –15g fresh ginger or ginger + turmeric mix, finely chopped
- 1 tsp brown sugar
Probiotic Iced Tea Ingredients (for 1 litre):
- 50 ml turmeric/ ginger bug
- 1 L water still or sparkling
- 1 lemon cut into wedges
- 6 sprigs fresh mint
- 50 g frozen raspberries for chill and flavour
- 1.5 tbsp maple syrup or to taste
Instructions
Start the bug:
- In a 3-litre sterilised jar, add 100g finely chopped ginger (and/ or turmeric, if using), 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 500ml filtered water. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. Seal with a loose-fitting lid and label with the date.
Feed daily for 5 days:
- Each day, add 10–15g finely chopped ginger (or ginger-turmeric mix) and 1 tsp brown sugar. Stir well. This daily feeding keeps the yeasts and bacteria alive and active.
Burp daily:
- Open the lid once a day for a few seconds to release any built-up gas, then reseal. This prevents pressure from building and avoids jar explosions.
Ready to use:
- After 5 days, the bug should smell yeasty and slightly sweet-like beer or sourdough. It’s now ready to use in probiotic drinks.
Storage:
- Keep the finished bug in the fridge and feed it once a week to keep it alive. It will last approx. 1 week without feeding. Bring it back to room temp and resume feeding to reactivate.