What can I do with flat kombucha?

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have encountered my fair share of flat kombucha. It can be disappointing to open a bottle or jar of kombucha only to find that it has lost its carbonation. However, there are a few things you can do to revive your flat kombucha and bring back some of that delightful fizz.

1. Seal it up and let it sit: The first thing you can try is simply sealing the container tightly and letting the kombucha sit for at least a few hours, or even overnight. During this time, the remaining live cultures in the kombucha may continue to produce carbon dioxide, which can help re-carbonate the beverage. Be patient with this method, as it may take some time for the carbonation to return.

2. Add additional sugar and yeast: If letting your kombucha sit doesn't yield the desired results, you can try adding a small amount of additional sugar and yeast to the mixture. The yeast will feed on the sugar and produce carbon dioxide as a byproduct, which will help re-carbonate the kombucha. Dissolve a teaspoon of sugar in a small amount of warm water, then add it to your flat kombucha along with a pinch of active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir, seal the container, and let it sit for a few hours to allow the yeast to work its magic.

3. Use a carbonation system: If you are a frequent kombucha enthusiast and find yourself dealing with flat batches often, investing in a carbonation system may be worth considering. These systems allow you to add carbonation to your kombucha by injecting carbon dioxide directly into the liquid. This method ensures consistent and reliable carbonation, giving you the control to adjust the fizziness to your liking.

4. Get creative with flavorings: If your kombucha remains stubbornly flat despite your efforts to re-carbonate it, don't lose hope. You can still find ways to enjoy it by getting creative with flavorings. Flat kombucha can be mixed with fresh fruit juices, herbal infusions, or even blended with ice and other ingredients to create refreshing kombucha smoothies. While it may not have the effervescence you desire, it can still be a delicious and healthy beverage option.

Personal experience: I remember a time when I had accidentally left a batch of kombucha sitting for too long, resulting in a completely flat and lackluster drink. Determined not to waste the effort and ingredients that went into brewing it, I decided to experiment with flavorings. I mixed the flat kombucha with freshly squeezed orange juice, a splash of ginger syrup, and a few mint leaves. The resulting concoction was a delightful and refreshing mocktail that was enjoyed by everyone. It taught me that even when things don't go as planned, there are always ways to salvage and enjoy your kombucha.