Club Soda Recipe

Make Club Soda

1. 1

   Prepare water and mineral blend

   Start with 1 liter of cold filtered water. If you want classic club soda minerality (optional), dissolve 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon Epsom salt (or magnesium chloride), a pinch of table salt, and 1/4 teaspoon citric acid into the water. Stir until fully dissolved. These additions are optional — pure carbonated water can be made with just water and CO2.

2. 2

   Chill

   Place the water (with or without minerals) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so it is as cold as possible. Cold water absorbs CO2 better, producing finer bubbles and better carbonation.

3. 3

   Carbonate

   Using your carbonation method: For a home soda siphon/charger, pour the chilled water into the siphon bottle, attach the charger and follow manufacturer instructions to carbonate. For a counter-top carbonator (e.g., SodaStream), fill the manufacturer bottle to the fill line, attach to the machine, and carbonate to your preferred level (typically 3–5 button presses or medium-high setting for 1 liter). If you have access to a CO2 tank and regulator, chill the water in a pressure-capable bottle and carbonate to about 30–40 psi for a medium-to-high level of carbonation. After charging, gently invert the bottle once or twice (do not shake) to distribute CO2 evenly.

4. 4

   Rest and adjust

   Let the carbonated water sit in a closed bottle for 5–10 minutes to stabilize. Taste a small pour. If you want stronger bubbles, carbonate a little more (if your device allows). If you used the optional mineral additions and the flavor is too salty or mineral-heavy, dilute with a small amount (1–2 tbsp) of plain chilled water and re-taste.

5. 5

   Serve

   Pour club soda into chilled glasses over ice if desired. Optionally garnish with a lemon or lime wedge. Keep leftover club soda sealed and refrigerated; it should retain carbonation for 1–3 days depending on seal and container.