Orange Kvass

Discover the invigorating flavors of Orange Kvass, a vibrant twist on traditional Russian kvas! This effervescent beverage combines the hearty essence of rye bread with the bright zest of orange, creating a tangy, refreshing drink perfect for summer picnics and gatherings. Homemade and natural, this orange-infused kvass is a delightful addition to your beverage repertoire that will awaken your taste buds.
ingredients
- 1 cup rye bread, toasted and cut into cubes
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup honey or molasses
- Zest of 1 medium orange
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Orange slices for garnish
steps
- 1.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and toast the rye bread cubes until golden brown.
- 2.
In a large heatproof container, combine the toasted bread and 4 cups of boiling water. Let it steep for about 4 hours, covered, until cooled to room temperature.
- 3.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the bread.
- 4.
Stir in the honey or molasses, orange zest, salt, and active dry yeast until well combined.
- 5.
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours, tasting periodically for desired sourness.
- 6.
Once fermented, strain the kvass again to remove the zest, then transfer to bottles, leaving some space at the top.
- 7.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or until ready to serve.
- 8.
Garnish with orange slices if desired.