Moscow Mule

It's been such a beautiful few weeks of summer holidays. One of the best parts of summer holidays are patio drinks- and this drink in particular. 

Moscow mules are a favorite of mine. Light, a bit spicy and so refreshing. I've switched up the traditional ginger beer for ginger kombucha.

Kombucha is a carbonated, fermented black tea beverage. It sounds weird, I agree: up until a few months ago, you couldn't have convinced me to try it. After learning about it in Nutrition, I decided to give it a chance, and now I'm all aboard the Kombucha bandwagon. 

Why is kombucha so good, you ask?

First of all, fermented foods and beverages contain a large amount of probiotics (bacteria), much like the probiotics in yogurt cultures. Human digestive systems contain a ton of bacteria. The more diverse the bacteria (particularly in your large intestine), the better. The collection of bacteria is called a microbiome, and has a ton of important functions. A diverse microbiome has shown to increase nutrient uptake, facilitate digestion, and more. By drinking kombucha or eating fermented foods, you can increase the diversity of your microbiome and benefit from the added bacteria. 

Secondly, kombucha is carbonated and usually flavored with natural flavors like ginger or raspberry: DELICIOUS! The taste may take a couple sips to get used to, but I now prefer it to any other carbonated drinks. I love GT's and Rise which are available in most health food stores, and BC companies like Nineteen 02 and Raincoast Kombucha are favorites as well. 

Just a note: especially if you aren't used to kombucha, I suggest sticking to one or two moscow mules. Drinking too many at once could be a little hard on your stomach!

INGREDIENTS

1 shot vodka
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
Ginger flavored kombucha (see above for suggested brands)
ice

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill cup with ice, then add vodka and lime juice. Fill the cup with ginger kombucha and stir. Optionally, top with lime wheels and/or fresh mint. Cheers!
The recipe makes one moscow mule. 

Disclaimer: Information can be empowering, but we all have unique health profiles and needs. Health-related information contained in this post is intended to be general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for a visit with a Naturopathic Doctor. The advice is intended to offer only a general basis for individuals to discuss their medical condition with their health care provider.  Always consult your licensed Naturopathic Physician.