Kombucha, made from fermenting tea, has been embraced globally due to its health advantages. The SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast) is the heart of this drink.

It is a living home for bacteria and yeast which transforms sweet tea into an effervescent probiotic drink.

In this article, we’ll show you how to create your own SCOBY, store it properly, and answer some of your common questions related to it.

What is a SCOBY?

SCOBY is a short form for Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast. It resembles a rubbery pancake and acts similarly to the "mother" used in vinegar production. 

The SCOBY's bacteria and yeast work symbiotically to ferment the sugar in tea, creating kombucha, known for its distinctive tang and fizz. Just as sourdough bakers use a starter, kombucha brewers rely on a SCOBY.

The Role of SCOBY in Kombucha Brewing

The SCOBY's primary role is to protect the fermenting kombucha from air and potential contaminants while enabling the tea to ferment and develop healthy acids and probiotics. It covers the surface of the brewing jar, creating a barrier that helps regulate the process and enhance the beverage's nutritional benefits.

What Does a Scoby Look Like?

A SCOBY, or Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, looks like a thick, rubbery disk. It varies in color from creamy white to light brown and may have dark, stringy bits hanging off it. The texture is slightly gelatinous, and as it grows, it layers, resembling a jelly-like pancake.

How Long Does It Take to Grow a New Scoby?

Growing a new SCOBY typically takes about 1 to 4 weeks. The exact time depends on factors like temperature and the initial strength of the kombucha tea. You'll notice a thin film forming on the surface within the first few days, which gradually thickens into a full SCOBY.

Ingredients Required To Make SCOBY at Home

You will require the below mentioned ingredients in order to make SOBY:

• 1 cup of pre-made kombucha or store-bought raw, unflavored kombucha
• 1 cup of white granulated sugar
• 8 cups of water
• 8 bags of black or green tea (or 2 tablespoons of loose tea)
• A large glass jar
• A breathable cloth and rubber band

6 Simple Steps To Make Your Own SCOBY

Now with the above ingredients handy you can follow the steps described below to make SCOBY:

STEP 1: Brew Sweet Tea

Start by brewing a pot of sweet tea using hot water, sugar, and either black or green tea. Let it cool down to room temperature.

STEP 2: Add Kombucha

Pour in some unflavored store-bought kombucha to introduce the necessary bacteria and yeast.

STEP 4: Cover and Ferment

Transfer the tea mixture into a clean jar, cover it with a cloth, and secure it with a rubber band to keep out dust and bugs.

STEP 5: Be Patient

Leave the jar at room temperature for about 1-4 weeks. During this time, you'll see a SCOBY forming on the surface.

STEP 6: Store Your SCOBY

Once your SCOBY is ready, move it to a fresh jar with some of the kombucha tea to keep it healthy and ready for your next batch.

How To Use Your SCOBY Safely?

To use your freshly made SCOBY safely:

1. Thoroughly clean all equipment to prevent contamination.
2. Wash your hands well before handling the SCOBY.
3. Store the SCOBY in a clean glass jar with some starter tea.
4. Avoid using metal utensils, as they can harm the SCOBY.
5. Regularly check for any mold or strange smells.

How To Properly Store SCOBY?

If you don't want to use SCOBY right away, you can store it. But storing SCOBY for future use comes with its own challenges.

Proper storage of your SCOBY is crucial for maintaining its health and ensuring successful future batches.

Here is how you can store it successfully:

1. Short-term Storage: Keep the SCOBY in a small amount of kombucha tea in a glass jar covered with a cloth, just as during the brewing process. This method is suitable if you plan to brew continuously.
2. Long-term Storage (SCOBY Hotel): For storing multiple SCOBYs or taking a break from brewing, a SCOBY hotel is ideal. Place the SCOBYs in a larger jar, submerged in kombucha tea, and store them at room temperature. The liquid should be changed every 4-6 weeks to keep the SCOBYs healthy.

How to Make Your Own Kombucha Tea with SCOBY

Ingredients Required To Make Kombucha From SCOBY:

• 1 cup of commercial or previously home-brewed kombucha (unflavored).
• 8 cups of purified water.
• ½ cup of white sugar.
• 4-6 bags of black or green tea.
• A large glass jar and a breathable cloth cover.

Steps to Make SCOBY at Home

STEP 1: Boil the water and dissolve the sugar in it.

STEP 2: Add the tea bags and allow the tea to steep until the water has completely cooled.

STEP 3: Remove the tea bags and add the commercial kombucha.

STEP 4: Transfer the mixture to the glass jar and cover it with the cloth.

STEP 5: Store the jar at room temperature, out of direct sunlight, and wait for 7-30 days as the SCOBY forms and the tea ferments.

STEP 6: Once the kombucha reaches your desired level of tanginess, it is ready to drink.

STEP 7: Reserve some of the liquid and the SCOBY for your next batch!

STEP 8: How to Store Kombucha SCOBY

Is Kombucha SCOBY Edible?

Yes, the kombucha SCOBY is edible and can be consumed in various ways. It is high in dietary fiber and may contain traces of probiotics. Here are a few ideas on how you can consume the Scoby:

Raw: It can be chopped and added to salads for a tangy crunch.

Dehydrated: SCOBYs can be dehydrated to make a jerky-like snack.

Blended: Add it to smoothies for a nutrient boost.

Conclusion

Making your own kombucha tea with a SCOBY is not just rewarding but also a fun way to personalize your brew. 

You get to play around with flavors, making each batch uniquely yours. Plus, you can reuse your SCOBY for future batches, share it with friends, or even experiment with it in different recipes.

Give it a try and enjoy the unique flavors and health benefits of home-brewed kombucha!