Healthy Homemade Iced Ginger Beer

Try our recipe for a homemade version of a refreshing iced ginger beer that doesn't require fermentation. 

Ginger beer, originally an alcoholic brew crafted from fermenting ginger, sugar, and water, is now mostly non-alcoholic. In contrast, ginger ale is a sweetened, non-alcoholic, ginger-flavored soft drink. Ginger beer boasts a bolder, spicier flavor profile than ginger ale, albeit with less carbonation. This version is quick to make, low in sugar, and non-alcoholic, perfect for immediate consumption on hot days. 

Healthy Homemade Iced Ginger Beer

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh ginger juice (from about 1/2 pound or 225g fresh ginger)

• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice

• 2-3 tablespoons raw honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 4 cups (1 liter) sparkling water, chilled

• Ice cubes

• Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ginger juice:

   • Peel and roughly chop the fresh ginger.

   • Use a juicer to extract the juice, or blend the ginger with a small amount of water and strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

2. In a large pitcher, combine the ginger juice, lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved.

3. Slowly add the chilled sparkling water to the pitcher, stirring gently to combine.

4. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

5. Fill glasses with ice cubes.

6. Pour the iced ginger beer over the ice.

7. If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves.

8. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing, healthy iced ginger beer!

Notes:

• For a spicier version, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.

• If you prefer a smoother drink, you can blend all ingredients (except sparkling water) in a blender, then strain and add sparkling water.

• To make it even more refreshing, you can freeze some of the ginger juice in an ice cube tray and use these ginger ice cubes in your drink.

• For a lower-calorie version, you can use a natural, healthy sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract instead of honey or maple syrup.

This iced ginger beer is a healthier alternative to commercial sodas. It's rich in beneficial compounds from ginger and lemon, and you can control the amount of sweetener or skip it altogether. The sparkling water provides refreshing bubbles without the need for fermentation. 

Enjoy this cool, invigorating drink as a summer refresher or a non-alcoholic alternative at gatherings!