Introduction to Natural Ginger Ale
Natural ginger ale is a flavorful and nutritious beverage that harnesses the healing powers of ginger, making it a refreshing and health-boosting drink. With its fizzy taste and rich content of probiotics and enzymes, it promotes a healthy digestive system.
The Origins of Ginger Ale
Though ginger ale is thought to have originated in Ireland during the mid-19th century, the popular pale and bubbly version we enjoy today first surfaced in Canada in the early 20th century.
Ginger Ale’s Health Benefits and Nutrients
Most ginger ale recipes are non-alcoholic, but the drink still has a distinct, invigorating flavor and provides various health benefits. Ginger’s potent anti-emetic and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to these benefits. The low-calorie beverage is also a source of essential nutrients, including calcium, iron, copper, and magnesium.
Preparing Homemade Natural Ginger Ale
Ingredients:
- 1-2 inch piece of fresh ginger root, minced
- ½ tsp sea salt or Himalayan salt
- ½ cup fresh lemon or lime juice
- ½ cup of organic sugar, rapadura sugar, or honey
- ½ cup homemade ginger bug or ¼ cup whey
- 8 cups of filtered water
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine 3 cups of water, minced ginger root, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil to create a “wort.” Simmer for 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
- Add the remaining water and let the mixture cool. Stir in the fresh lemon or lime juice and the ginger bug or whey. Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart glass mason jar, stirring well before sealing with a lid.
- Allow the mixture to ferment on the counter for 3 days, stirring or “burping” it occasionally. Using whey will speed up fermentation. When you open the lid, the mixture should bubble and “hiss” like soda.
- Follow the instructions carefully to avoid excessive pressure that could burst the bottle. Once fermented, store the ginger ale in the refrigerator and strain it before consumption.
Enjoy Your Homemade Natural Ginger Ale
Savor the unique flavor and health benefits of your homemade natural ginger ale, perfect for quenching your thirst and supporting your digestive system.
