Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 1 cup organic sugar (can substitute with honey or maple syrup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 8 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup molasses (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for added health benefits)
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest (optional, for a citrusy twist)
Instructions
- Prepare the ginger: In a large pot, combine the grated fresh ginger with 4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes. This helps extract the ginger’s flavor.
- Add sweeteners and flavors: After simmering, stir in the sugar (or alternative sweetener) until fully dissolved. If using, add the molasses, turmeric, and lemon zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Cool the mixture: Remove the pot from heat and add the remaining 4 cups of water. Let it cool to room temperature, which takes about 30 minutes.
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in a tablespoon of warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Combine and ferment: Once the ginger-water mixture has cooled, strain it into a large clean bottle or jar. Add the lime juice and the activated yeast mixture. Seal the container tightly.
- Fermentation process: Let the mixture ferment at room temperature for 24-48 hours. During this time, the yeast will create natural carbonation. The longer it ferments, the more fizzy it will become.
- Taste test: After 24 hours, open the bottle carefully (to avoid overflow from the carbonation) and taste the ginger beer. If you want it sweeter or more tangy, let it ferment for a longer period.
- Refrigerate and enjoy: Once your ginger beer has reached your desired taste, refrigerate it to slow the fermentation process. Serve it chilled over ice for a refreshing, healing drink.
Enjoy your natural, homemade ginger beer that’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits!