By Nqobile Mtshali

Hey, taste adventurer, Today, we're diving into the delicious world of our DIY Fermented Mango Soda – and guess what? We're spicing it up a notch with a homemade gingerbug. It's easy, it's fun, and it's all about creating a taste explosion in your kitchen.

Why Mango and Ginger?

Mango and ginger – is a match made in flavour heaven. Mango brings the sweetness, and ginger adds a bit of zing.

Healthier with a Ginger Bug

Before we get to the Mango Fizz Magic, let's talk about our secret weapon – the Ginger Bug. It's like the conductor of our Fermented Mango Soda, a homemade culture that adds a zesty kick.

Creating Your Ginger Bug

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger (go for organic if you can)

• 2 tablespoons cane sugar

• 2 cups filtered water

Instructions:

1. Day 1:

   • Mix 2 tablespoons of grated ginger and 2 tablespoons of organic cane sugar in a jar.

   • Pour in 2 cups of filtered water, give it a good stir, and cover the jar with a cloth secured with a rubber band.

2. Days 2-5:

   • Every day, add an extra tablespoon of grated ginger and cane sugar to the jar.

   • Stir it up and cover it again. Look for those bubbles – your Ginger Bug says, "Hello, I'm ready!"

3. Day 6:

   • Your Ginger Bug is now bubbling and fragrant, ready to be the star in your Mango Soda!

Ginger Bug Success Tips:

1. Fresh is Best: Choose fresh, or organic ginger for the best flavour.

2. Water Matters: Use filtered or dechlorinated water – chlorine doesn't play well with fermentation.

3. Stay Consistent: Stick to the daily routine. Your Ginger Bug loves a steady schedule, just like your favourite Woolworths Taste recipe.

4. Sterilize a large glass bottle or bottles, with hot water to keep your soda fresh and free of bacteria during fermentation.

Mango Fizz Recipe with Ginger Bug:

Ingredients:

• 2 quarts of filtered water

• 4-5 organic mangoes, peeled and pit-free

• 3/4 cup organic sugar

• 1/2 cup ginger bug

Instructions:

1. Prep the Mangoes:

   • Give your mangoes some love – wash, peel, and pit them.

   • Toss those juicy mangoes into a blender or food processor until you've got a smooth mango party going on.

2. Saucepan Symphony:

   • Grab a saucepan, and throw in the mango blend, water, and sugar.

   • Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. Stir it like you mean it.

3. Cooling Concerto:

   • Kill the heat and let the mix cool to room temperature: patience, my friend, patience.

4. Strain & Stage:

   • Strain out the pure mango nectar using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer.

   • Transfer it to a jar, and add your gingerbug.

5. Fermentation Fiesta:

   • Let the magic happen for the next 24-48 hours. Bubbles are a good sign – the fermentation party is in full swing.

6. Bottle Encore:

   • Transfer your fermented mango elixir into soda bottles. Use a funnel or a lipped measuring cup for a mess-free transfer.

7. Chill & Cheers:

   • Let those bottled creations chill at room temperature until they become carbonated.

   • Grab a glass, add Ice and enjoy your homemade fermented Mango Soda

Conclusion: Here's to you, for making your own Mango Fizz with a Gingery Twist! Pour yourself a glass, kick back, and relish in the flavours you've created. This isn't just a drink; it's your ticket to a taste adventure. Cheers to the joy of crafting, sipping, and savouring the delicious magic you've concocted.