Drink the Book: Natural Cola Recipe
Do you ever find yourself craving a refreshing cola? The fizzy bubbles, the sweet and tangy flavor – it’s hard to resist. But have you ever stopped to think about what’s actually in that can of cola? The long list of artificial ingredients and high-fructose corn syrup can be a turn-off for many health-conscious individuals. But fear not! There is a way to enjoy the taste of cola without all the unnecessary additives. It’s time to “drink the book” and make your own natural cola at home.
Why make your own cola?
When you make your own cola, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can choose to use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of high-fructose corn syrup. You can also experiment with different flavors and spices to create a unique and personalized cola experience. Plus, making your own cola is a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to connect with the process of creating a delicious beverage.
How to make natural cola
Making natural cola is easier than you might think. All you need is a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. Start by gathering your supplies:
- A large saucepan
- Water
- Organic cola flavorings (such as vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and citrus zest)
- Natural sweeteners (such as honey or maple syrup)
- Carbonated water
Once you have your ingredients, follow these steps:
- In the saucepan, combine water and your chosen cola flavorings.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the mixture to remove any solid particles.
- Add your natural sweetener to the strained mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, pour the mixture into a bottle or jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade cola, simply mix the flavored syrup with carbonated water to achieve your desired level of fizziness.
And voila! You now have a refreshing, homemade cola that is free from artificial ingredients and packed with natural flavors.
FAQs about natural cola
1. Is homemade cola healthier than store-bought cola?
While homemade cola can be a healthier alternative to store-bought cola, it’s important to remember that it still contains sweeteners and should be consumed in moderation. However, by using natural ingredients and avoiding artificial additives, you can enjoy a cola that is closer to its original form.
2. Can I customize the flavor of my homemade cola?
Absolutely! One of the best things about making your own cola is the ability to customize the flavor. You can experiment with different spices, extracts, and sweeteners to create a cola that suits your taste preferences.
3. How long does homemade cola last?
Homemade cola can last for several weeks if stored properly in a sealed container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to consume it within a week or two for optimal freshness and flavor.
4. Can I make a diet version of homemade cola?
Yes, you can make a diet version of homemade cola by using a natural zero-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract. Keep in mind that the taste may differ slightly from traditional cola, but it can still be a great alternative for those watching their sugar intake.
5. Can I use sparkling water instead of carbonated water?
Yes, you can use sparkling water as a substitute for carbonated water in your homemade cola. It will give your cola a slightly different texture and mouthfeel, but the taste will still be delicious.
6. Can I make a caffeine-free version of homemade cola?
Absolutely! If you prefer a caffeine-free cola, simply omit any ingredients that contain caffeine, such as coffee or tea extracts. You can still achieve a great cola flavor without the caffeine kick.
7. Can I use artificial sweeteners in my homemade cola?
While you can use artificial sweeteners in your homemade cola, it goes against the idea of creating a natural and healthier alternative. It’s best to stick to natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to maintain the integrity of your homemade cola.
8. Can I carbonate the cola mixture myself?
Carbonating the cola mixture yourself can be a bit challenging and requires specialized equipment. It’s easier to use pre-carbonated water or a home carbonation system to achieve the desired level of fizziness in your homemade cola.
So why settle for store-bought cola when you can “drink the book” and make your own natural cola at home? With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can enjoy a refreshing cola that is free from artificial additives and bursting with natural flavors. Give it a try and let your taste buds thank you!
Drink the Book: Natural Cola Recipe
- 1 quart water
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon (, finely grated)
- Zest and juice of 1 lime (, finely grated)
- Zest and juice of 2 oranges (, finely grated)
- 3 large (5-inch) cinnamon sticks (, broken into small pieces)
- 2 tablespoons dried bitter orange peel
- 2 teaspoons coriander seed
- 1/4 teaspoon finely grated nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon gum arabic (optional)
- 2 pounds sugar
- 1/4 cup browning sauce (e.g. (, Kitchen Bouquet))
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- In a large saucepan, combine water, lemon zest, lime zest, orange zest, cinnamon, bitter orange peel, coriander seed, nutmeg, and gum arabic (if using). Whisk until the gum arabic dissolves.
- Stir in the sugar and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Boil for 1 minute.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the lemon, lime, and orange juices, browning sauce, and vanilla. Let the mixture cool, then strain it.
- Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- To make a soda, pour 1/2 cup of the cola syrup into a tall glass. Add 1 1/2 cups of seltzer and stir until well combined. Add ice and serve.
- To make soda using a siphon, combine 3 1/4 cups of water and 3/4 cup of cola syrup in a 1-quart siphon. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to charge it with CO2. The charged soda can be stored in the siphon in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Dispense as desired into tall glasses filled with ice and serve.
