Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa CucharaSichuan Peppercorn Tortuga Kombucha Recipe

Sichuan Peppercorn Tortuga Kombucha Recipe

Inspired by La Cuchara
Time3h
Serves8

Citrus, Tangy, Light Bubble

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Ingredients

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Fermentation Ingredients

Method

Fermentation Process

  1. 1

    Prepare Sweetened Tea Base

    Boil 8 cups of water and steep your choice of tea (black, green, or a herbal blend) along with 1 cup of sugar until completely dissolved. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature.

  2. 2

    Add Sichuan Peppercorns

    Once the sweetened tea has cooled, add 2 tsp of Sichuan peppercorns to the tea base. Let it steep for about 30 minutes to extract the citrus-like flavor.

  3. 3

    Combine with SCOBY

    Strain the sweetened tea to remove the peppercorns. In a glass jar, combine the cooled sweetened tea, 1 cup of active kombucha from a previous batch, and gently place the SCOBY into the jar.

  4. 4

    Cover and Ferment

    Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or coffee filter secured with a rubber band. Allow it to ferment at room temperature for 7-14 days, tasting periodically until it reaches your desired tanginess.

Flavoring Process

  1. 5

    Prepare Flavoring Mixture

    In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of fresh lime juice, 1 cup of fresh orange juice, 1 tbs of grated ginger, and 1 cup of honey or agave syrup. Stir well to combine.

  2. 6

    Second Fermentation

    After the first fermentation, carefully remove the SCOBY and set it aside. Add the flavoring mixture to the fermented kombucha and stir gently.

  3. 7

    Bottle the Kombucha

    Pour the flavored kombucha into bottles, leaving some space at the top for carbonation. Seal the bottles tightly.

  4. 8

    Final Fermentation

    Let the bottled kombucha ferment at room temperature for an additional 3-7 days, depending on your desired carbonation level. Store in the refrigerator once ready.

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