Zero Waste Wild Soda Aperitivo By Chef Chris Locke
This refreshing soda uses common things that end up in the compost. But they can be destined for one last push of greatness before being passed on to enrich soil.
The natural yeasts present on the fruit will be enough to start the fermentation and, because the ingredients are not being heated, they get to shine as the driving force behind this tasty juice.
Coffee and orange are a great flavour pair while the banana skins help to add sweetness and texture, lending a little viscosity which balances with the delightful effervescence.
Note that this beverage will have a very small amount of alcohol in it, similar to that of kombucha.
Ingredients:
- Equipment
- 1L Swing Top Glass Bottle
- Seive / fine filter
- Ingredients
- 4 cups/1 Litre dechlorinated water
- 1 cup Used Coffee Grounds
- 1 cup Banana Skins
- Peels of 2 Oranges
- ⅓ cup / 80g Sugar (or sweetener of choice) - Maple syrup, Honey, Panela
Method:
Firstly, gently rinse the banana peels and orange rind under cold water.
Next, add the water, used coffee grounds, orange rinds and banana peels to a clean pot or bowl large enough to comfortably accommodate them.
With clean hands, massage the ingredients together to extract flavour. The orange in particular will release its flavourful oils when squeezed.
Once massaged, cover and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to cold-infuse.
Strain the contents well, twice if need be, into a jug or container that is easy to pour from.
Add the sugar/sweetner to the strained liquid and mix well until fully dissolved.
Pour the liquid into the clean swing-top bottle and up until 4 fingers away from the top. If you have left-over liquid, it can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed in a similar fashion to an iced tea.
Close the top of the jar and let ferment at room temperature for 2-5 days. It’s a good idea to check the carbonation by opening it slightly every day after day 2. Once it lets out a good strong hiss, store it in the fridge. Once chilled, it’s ready to enjoy!
Tip: collect the ingredients for this recipe over time by starting a container in the freezer where you can store them.
