How old was I when I discovered that soda shops still existed. It was a hallmark of the 1920s that soda shops began to flourish shortly after Prohibition, and it turns out that soda shops are still thriving in Utah. If you've scrolled through TikTok in the last month, you've probably seen people drinking fizzy drinks garnished with coffee creamer, fresh fruit, flavored syrups, and even candy on top. This, dear reader, is called “Utah Soda.”
In fact, the #UtahSoda hashtag on TikTok recently received over 7.8 million views after Utah TikTok user Taylor Blender posted a video on April 11 inviting viewers to ask her anything about “Utah Sodie culture.” . She then shared her experience working in a company. Utah soda shop and enlightens the uninformed by explaining how soda mixed with various flavored syrups (such as blueberry and peach) and coffee creamer is standard procedure for soda shop customers. Not only are these unique drinks a tradition in the state, but for some, the soda shop is a daily stop in place of the typical midday coffee pick-me-up.
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One of Utah's most popular soda combos is called "Dirty Soda" or "Dirty Diet Coke." Just to clarify, this is just a Diet Coke with coffee creamer and lime. Curious TikTok viewers are trying the drinks, which replace regular creamer with coconut-flavored creamer and add various syrups, such as grapefruit and guava. There's even an option for whipped cream to add some extra fluff. As with "sodie," as some people from Utah like to call it, there's no recipe that's too far-fetched.
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Utah soda shop history
To fully understand the hype surrounding soda creations in Utah, it's important to understand the origins of these establishments. According to the World Population Review released in 2022, Utah is the state with the largest Mormon population, with 2,126,216 members of the church. About 68% of Utah's population belongs to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (informally known as Mormons or the Church of Mormons). So what does this have to do with soda shops?
Early church leaders interpreted a Latter-day Saint Church scripture (Doctrine and Covenants 89:9) that members should not drink hot beverages such as tea and coffee to avoid "habit-forming" beverages that could cause Harm the body. While not all church members adhere to the no-coffee rule, there is still a need for other beverage options. As early as 2012, In a post on its official website, the church clarified that caffeine is not the only reason to avoid the above-mentioned drinks. As a result, chain soda shops like Sodalicious and Swig opened in the early 2010s, revolutionizing the way we think about soda and replacing the drive-thru coffee franchises common in other states across the country.
What is "soda" in Utah?
When it comes to soda in Utah, it's important to know that ordinary Dr. Pepper is not ordinary. When you browse the menus at several soda shops, you'll see Swig's "Life's A Peach" (Dr Pepper, Vanilla, Peach, Half & Half) and "Fictionist" from Swig (Code Red Mountain Dew, piña colada). puree, whipped cream). Sodalicious makes it clear that Utah residents are serious about soda. These drive-thrus are also known for their customizable options, allowing customers to choose from their curated drink menu or create their own recipes. Starbucks Secret Menu, you’ve met your match.
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How to Recreate "Dirty Soda" at Home
To get started with Utah's beverage culture at home, you'll need a can of Diet Coke, coffee creamer (the brand and flavor is entirely up to you) and a fresh lime or lime juice. Fill a glass with ice, add soda water and a splash of cream, then add lime juice to taste. Just mix to your liking. The end product is a subtle cream soda with a slight kick that enhances the flavor of Diet Coke rather than taking away from the carbonated drink's essence. By the way, I'd start with the creamer and taste until you're happy with the final proportions, since the soda is already pretty sweet on its own.
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If Diet Coke isn't for you, or you just want to try as many fun soda creations as possible, here are some "chef's kiss" recipes from TikTok that you can enjoy even if you don't live in Utah.
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Okay, but this one is beautiful? You'll need Sprite, watermelon and strawberry syrups, and vanilla or coconut coffee creamer. You're welcome.
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Send a warm greeting to the peaches and cream drink you never knew you needed. Make sure you have Mountain Dew, peach syrup, and creamer on hand, this drink is perfect for summer.
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Oh, and if you just want to go to the drive-in and get some good ice (here you go, Sonic), you can do that . I'm on my way now to try the Pink Ladies and Soft Pretzels.
