By November, much of the garden has gone quiet and the bright colours of summer are behind us. Then you cut open a ripe pomegranate and find hundreds of ruby-red jewels tucked inside.

This Pomegranate Orange Thyme Water Kefir Soda makes the most of pomegranates while they are at their seasonal peak. Lightly crushed arils give the water kefir a beautiful rosy colour and a bright, tangy flavour. Fresh orange adds natural sweetness, while thyme brings a subtle herbal note that keeps the finished soda from tasting overly fruity.

It feels a little festive without being tied to a particular holiday. The colour is gorgeous, the ingredients are simple and the flavour is fresh enough to serve throughout late fall and into the holiday season. Of course, the best part is that you'll feel better after drinking it, not heavier like with soda or drained like with an alcoholic drink.

Why You’ll Love This Pomegranate Water Kefir Soda

Pomegranate and orange are natural partners. Both are sweet and tart, but in different ways. Pomegranate brings a deeper, berry-like flavour, while orange juice and zest add freshness and a fragrant citrus finish.

Fresh thyme gives the soda an earthy, garden-inspired twist. The flavour is subtle, sophisticated and still very approachable, especially when the finished water kefir is served well chilled.