Author: Mike

List of Chipotle Hacks and Secret Menu Items

Mike Health, Trending
Two men in hoodies dining at Chipotle, having fun with hot sauce bottles.

Since the early days of Chipotle, there have been ways to get “extra” from this amazing restaurant with secret hacks and hidden menu items to take your usual order to the next level.  Here are some must-know Chipotle secrets to try next time you hit the grill.

 

 

Extra Meat

Grilled chicken sliced and stacked in a white ceramic dish.

By asking for “half-and-half” with two different meats on your entree, you usually end up getting at least 25% more meat than if you stick to one type. Half chicken and half barbacoa is a big favorite,

 

Stirred Up Burrito

A mixed up burrito, secret menu item from Chipotle, with background blurred.

Once all of the ingredients have been added to your burrito, you can ask the server to mix up all the ingredients within the tortilla before rolling it up. This is nice if you prefer a consistency of flavors throughout your burrito.

 

Quesarito

Unseen person grating cheese onto a cutting board.

At the quieter Chipotle locations that don’t have as much foot traffic as a New York, Los Angeles, or San Diego location, you can usually ask to server to line the tortilla with cheese before heating it up. They can then build the burrito on top of a layer of cheese which is really quite delicious.

Rumor has it that some Chipotle restaurants are now charging extra for this. It’s always worth asking if they’ll do it for free, and it’s sometimes worth paying for too.

 

Burritodilla

Pretty Asian woman bites into burrito at outdoor restaurant.

Similar to the quesarito, a burritodilla has its fillings layered between cheese. You then ask your server to fold it, flatten it a little, and cook until the tortilla is lightly browned. If the quesarito proves too messy for you, this secret Chipotle menu item is the way to go.

 

Extra Everything

Wooden table filled with a plate of corn chips, burritos in foil, and dishes of salsa, queso, and guacamole.

Besides the meat and guacamole, you can literally ask your server for “more” of any ingredient that’s going into your burrito, bowl, salad, or nachos. They won’t charge extra either. This isn’t really a secret, but something that some are unaware of. You should never feel that your portions are too small at Chipotle.

 

Less soft ingredients = tighter burrito.

A burrito cut in half and stacked with a blurred bokeh background.

Tempting as it is to load up on the salsa and sour cream, it’s tough for employees at Chipotle to roll a burrito tightly when there are too many soft or liquid elements.

For a tighter burrito you can eat on the go, limit the salsa, sour cream, or guac—or order some on the side for dipping/pouring on yourself while you eat, instead.

 

Use the app to get your order way faster.

Young Black woman in winter coat and slouchy knit hat smiling at her phone with sunlight glare behind her.

Ordering your meal via Chipotle’s mobile app means you can skip the line and pick up your food at your convenience. Chipotle also offers reward points for discounts and freebies later.

 

Vegetarian orders get free guac.

A black ceramic dish of fresh guacamole and cilantro.

Guacamole usually costs extra on most Chipotle menu items, but not if you order a vegetarian item. Save some money—and calories—by going meatless now and then.

 

Skip the tacos.

Unseen person holding a taco in the air against gray background.

Taco meals tend to get less meat and fillings than if you order a burrito bowl with the same ingredients, then add taco shells on the side.

 

Turn your burrito bowl into nachos.

White plate filled with tortilla chips topped with tomatoes, meat, jalapeno slices, and queso.

Ask your server to sub the rice in your bowl for chips. Extra cheese can help hold more of the toppings together for easy dipping.

 

via GIPHY

As with all “secret menu items” from any chain, keep in mind there’s often a reason they aren’t on the menu. They’re usually harder to make, or time-consuming. Sometimes the upgrades are just too expensive to fit with the rest of what that restaurant has to offer.

If you use these Chipotle hacks, use them wisely—consider tipping your server for going above and beyond, and try to limit the secret menu items to times when the line isn’t snaking too long behind you.

 

Healthy Breakfast Smoothie Recipes

Mike Food, Health
POV from an unseen woman looking down at a breakfast smoothie, purple and filled with blueberries with a red straw.

Simple and healthy smoothie recipes can be a godsend, especially if you’re prone to skipping breakfast following a few too many missed alarms. Keep in mind, skipping breakfast can put extra stress on you and your body and you may find it difficult with stress management as is. There is a reason the saying goes, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day”, you know.

And the great thing is, you don’t have to wait in line and spend $7 every time you want one. Or even settle for some instant coffee. With these easy smoothie recipes, you can put together a convenient and healthy breakfast in under 5 minutes—for as little as $1.50 per serving. Just toss some of your favorite fruits, veggies, and maybe a little protein powder into a high-powered blender and you’re ready to go.

 

 

 

Breakfast Smoothie Recipes

The recipes below are meant to be healthy ways of making smoothies. A smoothie today, can mean many things, from a blend of ice and fake sugars, to a concoction of healthy superfoods. These smoothies are definitely on the healthier end of the spectrum, but are a nice tasting mix for people who want to eat healthier, but don’t want to sacrifice flavor either.

Keep in mind – you can substitute or adjust the amount of pretty much any ingredient in these recipes to taste or to avoid allergy. You’ll only need to consider how easily the smoothie blends. Add more or less liquid to the mix in order achieve your desired texture.

After the recipes, we’ll show you some healthy ingredient options and direct you where to get them. Hope you enjoy.

Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie

A tan-colored smoothie in a clear jar being topped with banana slices, on a ceramic tray with more bananas.

This smoothie is packed with protein, probiotics, fiber, Omega-3, potassium, and natural fats to give you energy and enhanced nutrition to start your day. We particularly recommend this one after a morning workout.

Ingredients:

  • 1 Banana
  • 2 Large Spoonfuls of Natural Peanut Butter
  • 1 Serving of Protein
  • 1-2 Spoonfuls of Whole-fat Yogurt
  • 1 Tablespoon of Chia or Flax Seeds
  • 1 Cup of Soy, Almond, or Coconut Milk
  • Sugar-free rolled oats, about a spoonful (optional)
  • Handful of greens mix (optional)

 

Directions

  1. Put banana (or other fruit) into your personal blender cup
  2. Pour in nut milk, or other liquid base (adding this first will help to keep other ingredients from sticking to the sides of the container)
  3. Add in protein, yogurt, chia/flax seeds, peanut butter, rolled oats, and greens mix.
  4. Cap and blend. Serve plain or topped with additional banana slices.

 

Mixed Berry Protein Smoothie

A purple-hued berry fruit smoothie in a clear cup with a tall straw on a wooden counter.

If breakfast smoothie recipes usually leave you feeling hungry by mid-morning, chances are you’re not getting enough protein in your blend.

This berry smoothie has some yogurt and protein powder incorporated, which will help keep you feeling full all the way through lunch.

 

Ingredients:

  • Soy, almond, or coconut milk, 1 cup or adjusted to preference
  • 1/2 cup of frozen mixed berries
  • Scoop of protein powder (adjust to taste)
  • Whole-fat yogurt, 1 to 2 spoonfuls
  • Tablespoon of chia or flax Seeds
  • Handful of greens mix (optional)
  • Spoonful of sugar-free rolled oats (optional)

Directions

  1. Add mixed fruit into your personal blender cup
  2. Pour in 1/2 of nut milk (this keeps other ingredients from sticking to the sides of the container)
  3. Add in protein, yogurt, chia/flax seeds, peanut butter, rolled oats, and greens mix.
  4. Cap and blend. Top with additional fresh berries, if desired.

 

Banana Blueberry Avocado Smoothie

Blueberry smoothies in small decorative glasses on wooden serving tray, with fresh berries scattered nearby.

Avocado for breakfast?  Believe it or not, this superfood is perfect for your morning blend. Not only is it rich in healthy fats, but it also adds a silky-smooth texture that lets the berries and bananas linger a little bit longer on your tongue.

It’s heavy on vanilla flavoring, but feel free to cut back by using regular almond milk or plain yogurt, instead.

 

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup vanilla almond milk
  • banana, peeled and cut into pieces
  • cup of blueberries, more to taste
  • half an avocado
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder or 8 oz vanilla yogurt
  • optional: cinnamon, vanilla extract to taste

Directions

  1. Place all ingredients into blender.
  2. Blend well. Add flaxseed or oats if desired, and if blender is powerful enough to properly mix all ingredients.
  3. Pour into glass and top with additional blueberries, or a sprinkling of cinnamon if desired.

 

Classic Strawberry Smoothie

A classic strawberry smoothie in clear jar and blue paper straw on a wooden cutting board.

You just can’t improve on the classics. This strawberry smoothie is one of the simplest recipes out there, delivering a nutritious breakfast with minimal prep.

It’s also a great blank canvas, if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with new proteins, sneaky veggie additions, or whatever else you feel like throwing in.

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups frozen or fresh sliced strawberries
  • 1/2 banana, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 cup ice; slightly more if using fresh berries
  • 1 cup almond milk or milk of choice
  • Optional: container of greek yogurt

 

Directions

  1. Place all ingredients into blender.
  2. Blend well. Ensure all ice has been thoroughly incorporated before serving.
  3. For an even stronger strawberry flavor, add a tablespoon of strawberry jam or strawberry syrup to the blending process.

 

Mocha Espresso Smoothie

A mocha espresso smoothie in a clear glass with background blurred.

For a morning kick that’s as good for you as it feels, try this protein-packed espresso smoothie.  While most breakfast smoothie recipes focus on that fresh-fruit taste—which is definitely delicious—this one’s all about indulgence.

Chocolate and coffee make it every bit as delectable as your usual Starbucks go-to, but Greek yogurt and banana replace all that unnecessary sugar.

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 banana, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 Tbsp cocoa powder, adjusted to taste
  • Vanilla to taste
  • 1-2 tsp instant espresso powder
  • Optional: chocolate protein powder, 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Milk, as needed

 

Directions

  1. Place all ingredients into blender.
  2. Blend well. If smoothie is too thick, add milk to achieve desired consistency.
  3. Ensure all coffee and chocolate elements are incorporated thoroughly before serving. Top with a dusting of cocoa or sugar-free whipped cream, if desired.

 

Tips to Create Your Own Smoothie Recipes

Ingredients for a smoothie recipe piled into a blender pitcher, including mango, banana, and kale.

There is a big wide variety in the quality and types of ingredients that can fit in a blender. Just because it can go in a smoothie, however, doesn’t necessarily mean it should.

If you want to make your own smoothie recipes for breakfast, post-workout snacks, or even to pack on-the-go for a bike or hiking trip, this mini-guide can help point you toward the healthiest ingredients to get started.

 

Best Liquid Smoothie Ingredients

Smoothie drinkers can go in a number of directions with the liquid they choose to use in their smoothie. Here are some of the top options for smoothie liquids:

  • Dairy Milk
  • Natural Juice (Orange, Apple, etc)
  • Soy Milk
  • Almond Milk
  • Coconut Milk
  • Cashew Milk

The list goes on, but these are the most common. You could likely find some of these ingredients in a convenience store on the way home.

You can really use any liquid you prefer, as long as you can stand the taste. It’s best to start with a little bit and slowly add more, tasting frequently as you go.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s loaded with vitamins and nutrients whenever possible, and contains few to no added sugars.

 

Healthy Fruit Additions

Close-up of mixed berries including blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.

There are several fruit options to choose from, and each have different tradeoffs between convenience, cost, and environmental impact.

What’s more, not every fruit blends well.  If your blender is on the weaker side, pineapple can produce a stringy, pulpy smoothie that’s fit for the trash can.

Cut fruit into manageable pieces, to ensure your blender can handle it.  A good rule of thumb is bite-sized pieces or smaller.

  • Standard “Fruit-Aisle” Fruit – Normal fruit that you purchase at the grocery store will normally have a shelf life of about a week. Of course, it depends on which type of fruit you’re buying and where from. For buyers who want to avoid pesticides, this may not be the best option, unless you investigate your sources beforehand.
  • Organic Fruit – Organic fruit is about as healthy as inorganic, but it contains no pesticides or preservatives and is typically grown sustainably. It will cost a little more, but should be available in a lot of the same places that sell normal fruit. Shelf life will be even shorter than standard fruits.
  • Frozen Fruit – Frozen fruit is probably the cheapest and most convenient option for smoothies, depending on where you buy. Since frozen fruits are processed and washed, most pesticides used in their production have been washed away. Additionally, frozen fruits are approximately as healthy as standard fruit—so there’s no need to feel guilty about choosing convenience, here.

 

Best Vegetables to Add to Smoothies

Several varieties of fresh vegetables scattered on a wooden table, including carrots and broccoli.

Most first-time smoothie drinkers steer clear of adding veggies to their blends, fearing strange textures or flavors.

While some vegetables will overpower a smoothie if you add too much, most go completely undetected with enough milk, fruit, or other additions to round things out. The result is a nutrient-rich superfood blend and guilt-free treat.

Try sneaking a few of these vegetables into your favorite smoothie recipe—you might not even taste a difference.

  • Cucumber.  Since it’s mostly water, this vegetable barely has any flavor on its own, let alone in a blender full of more powerful ingredients.
  • Beets. While you’ll definitely notice the bright red hue beets will add to virtually any smoothie recipe, you won’t notice their bitter flavor if you add citrus or berries.
  • Spinach. Very few smoothie ingredients can’t cover up the flavor of fresh or frozen spinach. Throw a couple handfuls into any recipe—other than a green tinge, nothing will change.
  • Kale. Similar to spinach, kale can slide into any smoothie recipe and feel right at home. It’s a bit stronger than spinach, of course, so try a little at a time and taste-test your blend frequently until you find the sweet spot.
  • Carrots.  Paired with apples, pears, or just about any tropical fruits, carrots are undetectable in both flavor and color after the blender gets to them.  On the other hand, if you love carrots, there’s no reason they can’t be the star of the show: pair with greek yogurt, almond milk, vanilla, oats, walnuts, cinnamon, and a banana to create a blend deliciously reminiscent of carrot cake.
  • Cauliflower.  This vegetable tastes like absolutely nothing in a smoothie, even when you add a lot. Its subtle nutty flavor when raw blends right into your other ingredients, and can even thicken up a drink after you’ve added too much liquid.

 

Top Peanut Butter Brands for Smoothies

Natural ground peanut butter in a ceramic dish with spoon.

Peanut butter can be a healthy source of protein, but only if you choose a peanut butter that minimizes or completely eliminates the following ingredients:

  • Sugar. Any sugar in peanut butter is added only for flavor, and is often unnecessary—especially if you’re putting it into a smoothie with fruit ingredients or sweetened milk/yogurt.
  • Oils. These can often contain trans fats or saturated fats, which are bad for your health in excess. They’re only added for texture, which might come in handy when spreading PB on a sandwich, but doesn’t really matter once it’s chucked in a blender. Try a natural brand and give it a good stir before scooping.

 

Chia and Flax Seeds

Chia and flax seeds are both a healthy source of Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, which can help satiate you longer.

Not everyone enjoys their texture, however, so make sure your blender is powerful enough to pulverize these ingredients properly.

 

Best Protein Powder for Smoothie Recipes

A scoop of white protein powder on a larger pile of protein powder.

There are many protein options available, but most contain ridiculous amounts of sugar. Furthermore, many contain ingredients to enhance weight gain—not overall health.

An excellent brand of whey protein is Gold Standard, which keeps things simple with minimal additions and sugars.

If you aren’t sure you need much protein added to your diet, it’s okay to skip powders or supplements. Natural sources of protein, like milk or yogurt, can make your breakfast smoothie recipes just as satisfying, with a lot less nutritional guesswork.

 

via GIPHY

 

Healthy Snacks from Gas Stations, Convenience Stores, and 7-Eleven

Mike Food, Health, Travel
Convenience store counter and shelves stocked with healthy and unhealthy snacks, drinks, and other goods.

Gas station shops, liquor stores, and 7-Elevens are not known for healthy snacks, but convenience. These shops are a great way for quick and easy nourishment, but just how nourished is your body after a pitstop at one of these places? The answer—not very.

People are busier and broker than ever, so taking extra time and spending more money on health can feel counterproductive, but it is possible to eat healthy without breaking the bank.

In fact, the shops you’re already visiting on your morning commute just might improve your health, if you know what to look for.  Here are some healthy snacks you can find at most gas stations, 7-Eleven, and other convenience stores.

 

Fruit

Orange slices against a bright blue background falling and scattering on a blue tabletop.

You may not have noticed — distracted by the brightly colored packaging that seems to define these places — but a large number of these shops sell bananas, apples, oranges, and other fruits. This is about as healthy a food as you can find anywhere, let alone a convenience store.

 

Benefits

  • Natural sugars provide energy.
  • Most fruits are low in fats, sodium, and total calories
  • Great source of Vitamin C, potassium, dietary fiber, folate, and other nutrients.

 

Drawbacks

  • Low caloric content means you’ll be less full, and get hungry again sooner.
  • Some fruits can cause indigestion or gas.

 

Yogurt

A clear glass dish of yogurt, blueberries, granola, and banana slices with a spoon nearby on a white counter.

Not all yogurt is exactly healthy due to high sugar contents, but most will provide at least some benefits over other snacks.

Yogurts are also pretty common at gas stations and 7-Elevens. Just make sure to check the expiration date.

 

Benefits

  • Probiotics found in yogurt can aid digestion, promote gut health, and strengthen the immune system.
  • Yogurts contain many vitamins and nutrients, including B-vitamins, riboflavin, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
  • Many yogurts, particularly Greek yogurt, are very high in protein.

 

Drawbacks

  • Yogurt contains dairy, so it’s not ideal for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Many yogurts contain a significant amount of added sugar.

 

Carrot / Celery Packs

Carrots washed and laid neatly on a dark countertop.

Probably the most accessible and enjoyable of the veggies, carrots or celery packs are commonly sold in the refrigerated section of many a convenience store.

 

Benefits

  • Carrots and celery are low-calorie foods.
  • They contain fiber, natural sugars, and a small amount of protein.

 

Drawbacks

  • Some of these snacks come with ranch, which isn’t exactly healthy.  However, veggies are still one of the best convenience store options you can get, and the ranch is usually a small amount.
  • Low-calorie snacks like vegetables are less filling than other snacks.

 

Nuts

A white ceramic bowl of mixed nuts including almonds and walnuts on a wooden table.

Peanuts, almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds—you name the nut, and chances are high those snacks are healthy. As long as they aren’t coated in sugar or chocolate, nuts of any kind are a great trade-off in terms of protein versus calories.

Even the less healthy options are far better than any snacks you’ll find in the chip aisle, so don’t stress if all that really catches your eye are honey-roasted varieties or trail mixes.

 

Benefits

  • Most nuts are high in protein.
  • Nuts are high in quality fats, as well, which your body can use for sustained energy.

 

Drawbacks

  • Packaged nuts tend to be high in sodium.
  • Some are less healthy due to the trans fats contained in partially hydrogenated oils.

 

Beef Jerky

A 7 Eleven convenience store in an urban area from the street.

Ahh, meat. To many people, it’s hard to fill up without a meat or other protein-heavy snack. Luckily, the majority of convenience stores sell some form of jerky.

 

Benefits

  • Jerkies are made of meat, and thus, they are high in protein content.
  • Most contain few to no carbohydrates, depending on how the jerky was cured.

 

Drawbacks

  • Jerkies are usually very high in sodium.
  • Almost any amount of jerky will be more expensive than the other snacks you’ll find on the shelves.

 

Canned Tuna

A serious brunette woman shops for snacks at a convenience store.

Canned tuna is one of the healthiest options you might find at one of these shops.  Its list is short in terms of benefits, but there are also very few drawbacks.

 

Benefits

  • Often containing over 20g of protein per can, tuna is one of the easiest ways to feel fuller, longer.
  • Tuna is loaded with healthy fats that provide energy much longer than simple sugars or carbs.
  • Fish options like tuna contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for blood pressure and cardiac health.

 

Drawbacks

  • Tuna contains mercury, which is a known neurological toxin. This is only understood to be dangerous at very high levels, so eating cans of tuna daily is not recommended. For a quick and healthy snack on the go, however, it’s perfectly fine.
  • Got a can opener?

 

Water, Tea, and Coconut Water

A dark-haired woman in a black sweatshirt holds a plastic water bottle while leaning on a bridge or pier.

Sometimes, hydrating with water or getting a caffeine boost from some sugar-free iced tea can help fight off feelings of hunger.

What’s more, some people have a hard time distinguishing between hunger and thirst cues.  You might not be hungry at all, but rather in need of a long, cool drink.

 

Benefits

  • Most sugar-free or low-calorie beverages contain few or zero calories.
  • This can help promote weight loss by training you to skip unnecessary meals.

 

Drawbacks

  • Drinks won’t fill you up when you are truly hungry.

 

Gum

Pretty brunette woman blowing a bubble with gum against burnt orange background.

Gum isn’t exactly a snack, but it can serve a similar purpose as healthy beverages. Sometimes your hunger-pains are more akin to boredom. In this case, stopping for a pack of gum might make all the difference and quell that “hunger.”

At the very least, you’ll distract yourself until a place with plenty of healthy snacks hits the horizon.

 

Benefits

  • Some gums contain xylitol, and are thus recommended by many dentists because they are said to strengthen teeth.
  • Most gums have zero or few calories, depending on the amount of sugar each stick contains.

 

Drawbacks

  • Sugary gums are bad for teeth and not healthy.
  • Gum isn’t filling when you are truly hungry.

 

via GIPHY

Road trips, exhausting trips to or from work, errands—the temptation to grab quick junk food never seems to end. Convenience store have a plethora of options but, when you know what to look for, however, you can often find healthy snacks and even kombucha anywhere.  Some of these items can be added to your favorite smoothie recipes. And if you wanted an extra “boost”, you can add a bit of protein powder to kick your healthy lifestyle into a new gear.

If nothing else, you’ll discover options that aren’t nearly as bad for you as sugary, fat-filled choices. When it comes to eating right, those small substitutions can add up to a world of difference.

 

Easy Recipes For Better Instant Ramen

Mike Food
Woman eating instant ramen in the bathtub while watching television above her.

If you’ve ever been to a good ramen shop, you know that nothing compares to the silky-smooth broth, bouncy noodles, and mouthwatering flavors you’ll find there. It’s a borderline magical experience that basic instant ramen recipes, consisting of basically nothing but powdered broth, can’t beat.

But if you don’t have a way to taste those delicious, succulent flavors right now, fear not. There are some secrets these noodle shops have been keeping in the kitchen. Luckily for you, not all of them require years of cooking experience to master.

In fact, some of the key components to an excellent bowl of noodles can be recreated in your own kitchen, using ingredients you can find in your own neighborhood.

These easy instant ramen recipes can elevate a drab bowl of prepackaged noodles to heights that neither you nor this instant noodle’s manufacturer ever dreamed of. But that’s mainly becasue they’re mass produced and meat to be quick. Quick is everywhere from instant coffee to minute rice.

The next time that you’re watching your favorite food documentary and the inspiration hits, check out these recipes. Just be sure to use the best ramen brands so that your ramen can be the best it can be.

It won’t just be better than it used to be. It’ll be unrecognizable.

 

Shoyu Pork Ramen

Shoyu pork in soy sauce with lemon and cucumber garnish.

This recipe imitates the classic Tokyo-style ramen bowl that’s come to be beloved all over the world. Featuring delicate flavors, fresh vegetables, and hearty pork, it’s sure to satisfy your ramen cravings.

This recipe serves two people.

Recommended Instant Noodle Bases

Nissin Top Ramen Soy Sauce Flavor

Myojo Chukazanmai Soy Sauce Flavor

 

Ingredients

  • 6 oz pork chops
  • 2 tsp black pepper
  • salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable or peanut oil
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup Mirin, divided
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce, divided
  • two 3-5 oz packages instant ramen, with flavor packets
  • 4 cups water
  • ¼ cup dried shiitake mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp dry sake
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch peeled and grated ginger
  • 3 stems scallions

 

Directions

You’ll want to plan ahead for this recipe a little. At least half an hour before you’re ready to eat, preheat the oven to 400 degrees, for the pork. At the same time, soft boil an egg. It will need to cook for 4-6 minutes at a rolling boil.

When the oven’s preheated, cover the pork in the sesame oil, salt, and pepper, and put it in the oven for 15-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145.

Gently make cracks in the surface of the eggshells. You don’t want to break them completely. Then place them in a small container with ¼ cup of the mirin and one tbsp of the soy sauce. If the eggs are not completely submerged, add water until they are.

Put your noodles on to boil. Do not let them boil for longer than a few minutes, unless the package directions say otherwise.

While the water heats, add the dried mushrooms. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the flavor packets.

“Shoyu ramen” is simply ramen that heavily features soy sauce, especially as a finishing ingredient. That’s why, in addition to using soy sauce flavored ramen, you’ll want to use soy sauce in the “tare,” a sauce added just before the ramen is cooked. Make the tare by combining the remaining soy sauce and mirin with the sake, and add it to the pot.

Transfer the finished noodles and broth to two separate bowls. Once your pork has cooked and rested for at least ten minutes, slice it into small strips. Place those on top of the noodles.

Retrieve your eggs from their container and remove the shell. They should have a marbled pattern on their surface that will add to their flavor. Cut each one in half and add them to the surfaces of the bowls. Cut the scallions and sprinkle them on top.

Serve immediately.

 

Vegan Miso Ramen

Whether you’ve got vegans to cook for or you’re trying to cut out meat yourself, this is a hearty option that has plenty of flavor.

This recipe serves two people.

 

Recommended Instant Noodle Bases

MAMA Vegetable Flavor

Sapporo Ichiban Miso Flavor

Please note: Sapporo Ichiban Miso Flavor may have traces of non-vegan ingredients. 

 

Ingredients

  • Two 3-5 oz packages of instant ramen, with flavor packets
  • Four cups water
  • Two oz enoki mushrooms
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Three stems scallions
  • One small bunch cilantro
  • ½ oz pickled bamboo shoots, thinly sliced
  • 1 inch stem ginger, peeled and grated
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • ½ tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 ½ tbsp miso paste

 

Directions

Sauté the mushrooms briefly in the sesame oil, until they are soft. Set them aside.

Boil the noodles for 3-5 minutes or according to the package directions. As they boil, prep the scallions by trimming the roots and chopping the rest into small pieces, and pick the cilantro leaves from the stems.

Skim a little hot water from the boiling noodles and combine it with the miso, then stir them together until there are no lumps and the mixture is smooth and runny. Add it back into the pot.

Add the flavor packets to your noodles. As soon as they dissolve, add your mushrooms, bamboo shoots, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar and lime juice to the broth.

Separate the ramen into two bowls and top with the cilantro and scallions. Serve immediately.

 

Spicy Chicken Ramen

This one’s for the ramen heads who love bold and spicy flavors.

While traditional Japanese ramen is not typically spicy, spice has become a delicious, common addition to modern noodle bowls.

Since the flavor of this ramen is so hearty, it’s best served with a thick and substantial noodle like udon.

Note: because of the spicy additions you’ll be adding to the ramen, it’s not recommended you start with a spicy flavor packet.

On the other hand, fortune favors the brave.

This recipe serves two people.

 

Recommended Instant Noodle Bases

Myojo Udon Chicken Flavor

Maruchan Roasted Chicken Flavor

 

Ingredients

  • Two 3-5 oz packages instant ramen, with flavor packets
  • 4 cups of water
  • 3 large chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp peanut oil
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 oz bok choy, rinsed and chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
  • 1 tbsp chili oil
  • 1-2 whole dried D’Arbol chilies or 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • ¼ cup chopped peanuts

 

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat the chicken with peanut oil, paprika, and the salt and pepper. Roast the chicken thighs for 45 minutes, flipping them halfway.

Once the chicken is out of the oven and resting, heat the sesame oil in a pan on medium high heat. Add the garlic and brown it slightly.

Once it’s browned, add the chili powder or whole chilies and the coriander powder to the pan and toast your spices gently. Separate your rested chicken meat from the bone. Turn the heat down to medium low and add your chili oil.

You can make your own chili oil, but if you don’t have the time, your local supermarket or import market most likely carries some. Once it’s added to the pan, add your chicken meat and your bok choy and saute them with the spices until the bok choy is wilted.

Boil your noodles for 3-5 minutes or according to the package directions, and add the flavor packets. Tip your pan full of bok choy and chicken into the pot and add the entirety of the contents to the ramen, including any leftover oil or whole chilies.

Separate the ramen into two bowls and top with chopped peanuts. Serve immediately.

 

via GIPHY

Improve Your Instant Ramen Recipes

While it’s nearly impossible to make restaurant quality ramen out of the instant stuff, it is possible to capture some of the magic you’d find in ramen that was made by a professional. The key to great instant ramen recipes is, above all else, creativity.

With a few tweaks and the addition of fresh meat and vegetables, you can have a delicious dinner budget-friend dinner ready without spending the time and money on rich and traditional broth and noodles.

When cooking’s off the table—some healthy takeout while sipping on your favorite breakfast smoothies could be the way to go when you’re not in the mood for this tasty Japanese meal.

The Complete Guide to Tesla, Inc.

Mike Trending
Tesla storefront with a historic antique style vehicle displayed in front

The concept of electric vehicles was merely science fiction before General Motors first rolled out the EV1 in 1996. They later crushed most of them in 2003 citing unprofitability, leaving the electric vehicle market essentially empty.

Immediately recognizing the potential that the EV1 electric cars failed to reach, engineers Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning founded Tesla Motors—an ode to inventor Nikola Tesla.

 

Embed from Getty Images

Elon Musk Joins Tesla Motors

With hopes of creating highly efficient battery-electric cars, Tesla Motors sought funding from investors. In 2004, Elon Musk joined and led the Series A investments by putting up $6.5 million of the $7.5 million raised.

As a result, Musk became the chairman of the board of directors. The vision for Tesla Motors now became clear: to become “a car manufacturer that is also a technology company.”

During the design process of their first vehicle, the Tesla team wanted to incorporate a lithium-ion battery, as opposed to the lead-acid battery that GM’s EV1 used.

Being the first automaker to use such technology in a vehicle, Tesla figured that it would be more powerful and less expensive to manufacture than traditional batteries.

 

The First Electric Sports Car

Tesla’s first official project was the Roadster: a high-margin, high-performance, and completely electric sports car.

Though the young company’s long-term goal was to create affordable electric vehicles, they wanted to start with manufacturing high-end cars to help fund their future endeavors. In 2006, Tesla revealed this groundbreaking automobile to the public.

From this point until 2008, Tesla Motors entered its next several rounds of investments. These rounds found great success, having earned over $100 million from numerous investors such as the Google co-founders and the former eBay President.

 

The Tesla logo embossed on a thin black card

 

A Change in Leadership at Tesla Motors

Sometime during this success, Eberhard was asked to resign as CEO to join the advisory board. Shortly after, he left the company.

Almost simultaneously, Tarpenning, the other co-founder, stepped down from his position as vice president of electric engineering and left the company as well in 2008.

Elon Musk then began his tenure as CEO of Tesla Motors, where he made drastic changes and secured a $465 million loan from the United States Department of Energy.

In 2008, Tesla Motors began producing the Roadster. The vehicle was able to travel an unprecedented 245 miles on a single charge, accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about four seconds, could hit a top speed of 125 mph, and, of course, use no gasoline.

The company IPO’d on the NASDAQ in 2010. On its first public day of trading, the stock opened at $17 per share and closed at $23.89. As an aside, the current price of TSLA is north of $700.

In 2012, Tesla Motors ceased production of the Roadster and shifted its attention towards the Model S, an affordable electric sedan.

Soon after its release, however, Model S drivers found their vehicles combusting into flames after hitting road debris.

This event led to a significant drop in their stock, but customers continued to craze over the innovative Tesla Motors.

 

Rapid Growth and Massive Success

Over the next couple of years, Tesla Motors saw rapid growth as it reached many milestones.

To keep up with their demand for lithium-ion batteries, Tesla unveiled ambitious plans to develop the aptly named “Tesla Gigafactory.”

This massive factory would be used to manufacture lithium-ion batteries at a large scale with hopes of making their batteries, and thus electric vehicles, more affordable.

 

Embed from Getty Images

 

In the following year, Tesla rolled out its powerful (and controversial) autopilot feature for the Model S.

Revealed in 2015, the Model X was the next electric vehicle in Tesla’s line. The Model X was a roomy SUV with an impressive range of nearly 300 miles on a full charge. With this release, Musk and the Tesla team showed just how powerfully versatile they are.

While seeing success, Tesla Motors decided to expand and acquire a handful of other companies.

One was SolarCity, a solar panel company. Tesla previously had ideas of using solar energy in their technology, but ultimately found SolarCity to be a worthy subsidiary.

Finally, Tesla released its most popular electric car, the Model 3, in 2016.

This four-door sedan could travel for 220 miles (the newest model has a range of about 350 miles). It also boasts a shockingly affordable price tag at just $35,000.

 

A Fitting Rebranding: Tesla Motors Becomes Tesla, Inc.

On February 1, 2017, Tesla Motors ceased to exist, and Tesla, Inc. was born.

The Tesla team wanted the public to know that it’s more than just an automobile manufacturer. It’s also a tech company.

Shortly after the name change, one of China’s most powerful and valuable companies bought a 5% stake in Tesla, valued at $1.8 billion.

It wasn’t long after that Tesla surpassed Ford in market capitalization to hold the title of the most valuable American automaker.

 

“Woah … the stock is so high lol.”

As the Tesla stock quickly rose, Musk Tweeted that he might take Tesla private when the stock reached $420. He further stated that the company already secured this funding.

In September 2018, the U.S. SEC found this Tweet to be fraudulent and sued Musk. As a result, Musk stepped down as chairman and received a fine of $20 million.

Regardless, Tesla decided to keep the company public.

Looking to expand its lineup, Tesla revealed its first truck—the Cybertruck—in 2019.

The futuristic vehicle made waves on social media when its indestructible windows shattered during a live demonstration. Tesla plans to release the boxy electric six-seater in 2021.

Just a couple of days before Christmas Eve, Tesla’s stock reached $420. Tesla fans rejoiced as Musk Tweeted, “Woah … the stock is so high lol.”

 

Tesla’s Growth During the Pandemic

In March 2020, a year later after its unveiling, the Model Y electric car went public for deliveries.

The vehicle is essentially an upgraded Model X. It can recharge half of its 326-mile range in just 15 minutes.

Several more Gigafactories broke ground around the world, including Shanghai, Berlin, and Texas. Musk later ambitiously claimed that the Berlin location will eventually be the biggest battery factory in the world.

To close out 2020, Tesla officially joined the S&P 500 Index on December 21.

 

Meteoric Rise

Tesla’s growth and innovation appear not only limitless, but also inextricably linked. As the company releases new electric cars, each more powerful and accessible than the last, its stock will continue to rise.

Furthermore, its hold on the electric vehicle market will only strengthen. Where previous automakers saw little to no profitability, Tesla saw opportunity.

Its rapid growth and astounding novelty are, perhaps, owed to Tesla, Inc.’s original goal: to be a car maker and tech company in one. The respective keystone principles of each industry’s most successful titans—productivity and creativity—continue to keep Tesla at the top and will undoubtedly do so for decades to come.

For more on magnate and visionary Elon Musk, check out this timeline of his accomplishments and personal lift which include his time on Joe Rogan’s podcast.

Gold Standard Whey Protein Flavor Reviews and Nutrition Facts

Mike Fitness, Food
Label for Gold Standard Whey Protein powder.

Gold Standard Whey Protein by Optimum Nutrition is the most popular brands of whey protein on the market. Their protein blend is powerful yet tasty, which is way more than most protein blends can offer.

Learn about the nutritional details of Gold Standard Whey Protein, as well as which flavors are the best—both in terms of taste, and health.

If you’re just here for the flavor rankings, here’s a quick summary of consumer favorites:

Rank Flavor More
#1 Extreme Milk Chocolate Read More
#2 Delicious Strawberry Read More
#3 Double Rich Chocolate Read More
#4 Rocky Road Read More
#5 Banana Cream Read More

See All Flavor Reviews

Nutritional Information about Gold Standard Whey Protein

One of the things that Gold Standard advertises most about its protein product is that it is based on whey protein isolates (WPIs), which are the purest whey protein that currently exists. The cost for WPIs can be high, but they are the ideal whey for serious athletes.

All of Gold Standard’s whey flavors use the same blend, which is a mix of whey protein isolates, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides to promote speedy recovery and lean muscle growth.

The rest of the ingredients in each bottle or bag of Gold Standard Whey Protein powder are specific to the flavor you purchase.

 

Best Liquids to Mix with Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder

There are many possibilities for mixing Gold Standard protein mix into your beverage—or even food—such as:

  • Soy Milk
  • Almond Milk
  • Coconut Milk
  • Smoothies
  • Water
  • Whole Fat Diary Milk
  • Low / Non-Fat Dairy Milk

Other Uses for Gold Standard Whey

  • Add into cereal with milk
  • Add into oatmeal
  • Cook into donuts and other pastries

 

Gold Standard Whey Protein Flavor Reviews

Optimum Nutrition offers over 20 flavors of whey protein in their Gold Standard series, and they continue to add more. Here are the top Gold Standard whey flavors, according to consumer reviews.

 

Gold Standard Whey Protein Flavor Rankings

Rank Flavor More
#1 Extreme Milk Chocolate Full Review
#2 Delicious Strawberry Full Review
#3 Double Rich Chocolate Full Review
#4 Rocky Road Full Review
#5 Banana Cream Full Review
#6 Cake Batter Full Review
#7 Mocha Cappuccino Full Review
#8 White Chocolate Full Review
#9 Chocolate Malt Full Review
#10 Strawberry Banana Full Review
#11 Chocolate Mint Full Review
#12 Chocolate Peanut Butter Full Review
#13 Coffee Full Review
#14 French Vanilla Creme Full Review
#15 Chocolate Coconut Full Review
#16 Vanilla Ice Cream Full Review
#17 Cookies and Cream Full Review

#1. Extreme Milk Chocolate (Best Overall)

This flavor is delicious all around, especially if you are a chocolate lover.

Buy Now!

Best with: Soy Milk

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Extreme Milk Chocolate flavor.

 

#2. Delicious Strawberry (Best with Milk / Soy Milk)

Best with: Soy Milk, Banana / Berry Smoothies

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Delicious Strawberry flavor.

 

#3. Double Rich Chocolate (Best with Water)

This flavor is solid as they come, and a treat after the gym or a long bike ride for chocolate lovers.

Buy Now!

Best with: Water, Soy Milk

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Double Rich Chocolate flavor.

 

#4. Rocky Road

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Rocky Road flavor.

 

#5. Banana Cream

Banana Cream seems to have a cult following, and with good reason. It’s just plain delicious, although banana itself can be a polarizing flavor among reviewers.

Buy Now!

Best with: Soy Milk

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Banana Cream flavor.

 

#6. Cake Batter

Best with: Soy Milk

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Cake Batter flavor.

 

#7. Mocha Cappuccino

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Mocha Cappucino flavor.

 

#8. White Chocolate

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Protein White Chocolate flavor.

 

#9. Chocolate Malt

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Chocolate Malt flavor.

#10. Strawberry Banana

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Whey Protein Strawberry Banana flavor.

 

#11. Chocolate Mint

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional facts for Gold Standard Whey Protein Chocolate Mint flavor.

 

#12. Chocolate Peanut Butter

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional facts for Gold Standard Whey Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor.

 

#13. Coffee

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional facts for Gold Standard Coffee flavor.

 

#14. French Vanilla Creme

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional facts for Gold Standard Whey Protein French Vanilla Creme flavor.

 

#15. Chocolate Coconut

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional facts for Gold Standard Chocolate Coconut flavor.

 

#16. Vanilla Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream isn’t bad, assuming you don’t mind the taste of artificial vanilla. Many reviewers on Amazon and other sites were disappointed to find that Sacralose is one of the ingredients, claiming that the artificial sweetener ruins the flavor of the mix.

Buy Now!

Best with: Berry & Banana Smoothies

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional label for Gold Standard Vanilla Ice Cream flavor.

 

#17. Cookies and Cream

There are dozens of reviews on Amazon and BodyBuilding.com with users complaining about this flavor. While other Gold Standard offerings knock it out of the park, this one definitely falls flat.

Buy Now!

Nutrition Summary

Nutritional facts for Gold Standard Cookies and Cream flavor.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Gold Standard Whey Protein

Is Gold Standard lactose free?

No. Gold Standard contains a small amount of lactose. It also contains added lactase, which assists in breaking down lactose.

Is Gold Standard college athlete approved? NCAA approved?

Yes. All products in Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard series are fit for collegiate athletes.

Is Gold Standard Whey Protein vegan?

No; all of this brand’s products contain milk. But, it is vegetarian!

Is Gold Standard FDA approved?

No. Gold Standard Whey Protein is a dietary supplement, and thus, does not require the approval of the Food and Drug Administration.

Is Gold Standard safe / safe for pregnancy?

Yes, but pregnant women should consult a doctor.

Is Gold Standard good for weight loss?

No, it is not a meal replacement. It is a supplement, designed for muscle growth. Best used when paired with exercise, which can result in weight loss and muscle development.

Is Gold Standard Whey Protein healthy?

This is subjective, as the healthiness of whey protein is always a subject of debate—but yes.

 

via GIPHY

 

Guide to Kombucha: Benefits, Brands, and How to Make It

Mike Food, Health, Trending
Varieties of Kevita brand kombucha.

Kombucha is a hot trend these days, and with good reason. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also believed to promote good health and naturally energizing. It may be a better morning alternative for some than instant coffee.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn key information about kombucha and its health benefits.  It also covers the most popular brands and flavors, as well as how to brew your own.

 

 

What is Kombucha?

Woman's hand around glass of ruby-colored homemade kombucha.

Kombucha is a beverage made by fermenting bacteria and yeast with black or green tea, as well as sugar. While alcohol is usually present due to fermentation, the amount tends to be minimal.

It is enjoyed around the world for its health benefits and unique flavor, which is highly adaptable to personal tastes and preferences.

 

Health Benefits of Kombucha

  • Kombucha is rich with probiotics that aid the digestive process, as well as antioxidants.
  • It contains polyphenols and acetic acid, which help to prevent growth of undesirable bacteria.
  • In some studies, it has been shown to improve cholesterol levels.

 

What Is a SCOBY?

SCOBY stands for “symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast.”

It is sometimes referred to as a mother, mother culture, kombucha culture, pellicle, pancake, or mushroom.

This gelatinous mat of bacteria and yeast is a living body, similar to a coral reef in the ocean.  You can often see pieces of the SCOBY present in both homemade kombucha, as well as store-bought, although some manufacturers filter it out.

This great video by YBK explains SCOBY in more detail:

How to Make a SCOBY

Unseen person's hands holding SCOBY from homemade kombucha.

  1. Boil 1 gallon of water in a large clean pot.
  2. Once the water is to a boil, remove it from heat, and add / mix in 1 cup of sugar.
  3. After the sugar is evenly mixed into the water, drop in the 8 bags of black or green tea, and let the tea steep into the hot water. You only need to steep the tea for 3 to 4 minutes.  While steeping for longer is OK, the blend might become bitter.
  4. Allow the sugary tea to cool until it reaches room temperature.
  5. Transfer 3 1/2 quarts of the tea mixture into an empty 1-gallon jar.
  6. Add 2 cups of unflavored and unpasteurized kombucha.  This can be store-bought, or reserved from another batch.
  7. Place the woven cloth, or two layers of a paper towel, over the jar.  Secure it using a rubber band.
  8. Set the jar out of direct sunlight, then let it sit for 2-4 weeks.
  9. Wait for a 1/4-inch gelatinous disc to form near the top of the jar.
  10. Inspect the new SCOBY. Make sure the jar doesn’t smell rancid or off-putting. If it does, restart the process.

 

GT’s Living Foods

GT’s makes a variety of “living beverages” besides its organic and raw kombucha, including adaptogenic tea, water kefir, non-dairy coconut yogurt, and probiotic shots.

Their kombucha comes in several varieties:

  • Enlightened Kombucha: This is brewed with living cultures, yielding a light and smooth tasting probiotic powerhouse.
  • Enlightened Synergy: This is brewed with living cultures, and contains fresh-pressed organic juice or fruit puree, making it the smoothest of their offerings.
  • Classic Kombucha: This combines their Organic & Raw Kombucha with complex blends of vegetable juices, spices, herbs, and botanics. It is brewed with heirloom cultures to bring the same signature, small-batch taste that GT’s first introduced in 1995. This is for kombucha drinkers 21 and older, because the fermentation gives this an alcohol content above 0.5%.
  • Classic Synergy: This combines their Organic & Raw Kombucha with fresh-pressed organic juice or fruit puree.  Like the Classic Kombucha variety, its alcohol content is above 0.5%, so it’s for ages 21 and older.

 

Best GT’s Kombucha Flavors

Rank Flavor
#1 Gingerade
#2 Trilogy
#3 Grape
#4 Lavender Love
#5 Pomegranate Power
#6 Watermelon Wonder
#7 Ginger Berry
#8 Passionberry Bliss

 

Kevita

Kevita’s flavors are not as pungent as others on the market.  For that reason, don’t go reaching for your favorite smoothie just yet! Kevita is a great gateway for new drinkers who haven’t quite acquired the taste for kombucha yet.

Additionally, the bottles typically contain no SCOBY.  Their flavors are more like flavored sparkling water, rather than a probiotic beverage.

 

Best Kevita Kombucha Flavors

Rank Flavor
#1 Pineapple Peach
#2 Tart Cherry
#3 Pomegranate
#4 Ginger

 

Health-Ade

Health-Ade is a very popular brand, brewed in Los Angeles, California. You can likely find this brand anywhere from large supermarkets to your local gas stations while your grabbing your favorite snacks.

The company boasts that their brewing process is “All Glass,” meaning they don’t use any metal or plastic containers to prevent leaching of the materials into the brew.

Health-Ade also brews in 2.5-gallon batches.  This small size yields quality results for every serving.

Best of all, they use high-quality ingredients, and cold-pressed juices from organic produce.

 

Best Flavors of Health-Ade

Rank Flavor
#1 Bubbly Rose
#2 Pomegranate
#3 Grape Vibes
#4 Cherry-Berry

 

Humm

Founded in Bend, Oregon, Humm is a brand built on inclusion and communication, with a vision of peace, mutual respect, and equality.  It’s available in all 50 states, as well as Sweden and Guam.

 

Best Flavors of Humm

Rank Flavor
#1 Blackberry
#2 Pineapple Tumeric
#3 Hopped Grapefruit
#4 Pomegranate Lemonade
#5 Lemon Ginger
#6 Strawberry Lemonade
#7 Mango Passionfruit
#8 Coconut Lime
#9 Raspberry Hops
#10 Ginger Juniper

 

How to Make Kombucha at Home

Large jar and bottle of homemade black tea kombucha and SCOBY.

Brewing your own kombucha sounds far more complicated than it really is, once you’re accustomed to the process.

Many drinkers prefer their own brews in both taste and quality, in fact, and rarely—if ever—purchase store brands again.

 

Ingredients

  • Gallon of water
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 8 bags of black or green tea
  • 2 cups of starter kombucha tea (unpasteurized/neutral flavor; can be store-bought, or reserved from a previous brew)
  • 1 SCOBY, or the ingredients to make one:
    • Gallon of water
    • 1 cup of sugar
    • 8 bags of black or green tea
    • 2 cups of starter kombucha tea

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • 1-gallon jar
  • Tightly woven cloth (or paper towels)
  • Rubber bands
  • Small funnel
  • 6 16-oz glass bottles

If you need to acquire any or all of these things, this Kombucha Starter Kit has everything you need. The kombucha tea blend is easy to use as your favorite protein powder!

 

Directions

1. Make the tea base for the SCOBY

The SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) is the key to the entire process, and where the probiotics and many health benefits of this drink stem from.

To make the tea base for your SCOBY, boil a gallon of water in a large clean pot. Remove from heat, then mix in a cup of sugar.

After the sugar is evenly mixed into the water, drop in the 8 bags of black tea.  Let the tea steep into the hot water.

You only need to steep the tea for 3 to 4 minutes.  Steeping for longer is fine, although the blend can become bitter if steeped too long.

Finally, let the sugary tea cool until it reaches room temperature.

 

2. Add the starter kombucha

Add 2 cups of unflavored and unpasteurized kombucha.  This can be store-bought, or reserved from a previous batch of kombucha.

 

3. Add the SCOBY

Gently place the SCOBY into the jar with the tea mixture, and cover it with the tightly-woven cloth.  Two layers of paper towels will work fine, as well.  Secure with a rubber band.

 

Two large jars of homemade kombucha covered with cloth and rubber bands.

 

4. Ferment for 7-10 days

Let the mixture sit, out of direct sunlight, for 7-10 days.

After 7 days, you can begin to taste the kombucha every day. When it reaches a flavorful balance of sweet and tart, the batch is ready.

 

5. Remove the SCOBY

At this point, you’ll want to remove the SCOBY from the jar. If you’d like to make another batch, you can re-use this SCOBY in this same process.

 

6. Transfer to bottles

Using the small funnel, transfer the liquid into the glass bottles, then seal them shut.

If needed, use a ladle or small cup to move the liquid from the large jar into the funnel.

 

7. Store at room temperature for 1-3 days

This is where the kombucha will carbonate. Keep the bottles out of direct sunlight for 1-3 days during this process.

It might be helpful to put some of the new kombucha into a plastic bottle before this step.

This will help you gauge how long the drink takes to carbonate, by feeling the firmness of the bottle—once the plastic bottle becomes very firm, the drink is sufficiently carbonated.

 

8. Refrigerate

Refrigerating the kombucha will stop it from carbonating further. And once it’s cold, it’s ready for you to drink!

 

Hand pouring pinkish purple kombucha into an overflowing glass.

While it’s definitely an acquired taste for many, most kombucha enthusiasts will tell you it’s not just the taste you’ll fall in love with—it’s how this drink makes you feel that’s so irresistible.

Many claim their digestion, mood, sleep, and overall health improve noticeably, once this fizzy drink joins their fridge lineup.