Refreshing Homemade Ginger Ale
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
24-48 hours
Total Time
Up to 48 hours 15 minutes
Servings
About 8 cups
Yield
2 quarts
Calories
Approximately 100 calories per cup
Unleash the invigorating flavors of ginger with this Refreshing Homemade Ginger Ale, a bubbly and zesty drink that’s a delightful alternative to store-bought sodas.
This recipe combines the sharp, spicy taste of fresh ginger with the sweetness of sugar and the tanginess of lemon, resulting in a beverage that’s both exhilarating and comforting.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply seeking a refreshing drink to enjoy on a warm day, this homemade ginger ale is sure to become a favorite.
Its natural ingredients and absence of artificial preservatives make it a healthier choice, offering a satisfying fizz and flavor that can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/8 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 7 cups filtered water, divided
- Note:Â For a deeper flavor, you can increase the amount of ginger. Adjust the sugar level according to your preference for sweetness.
Instructions
- In a large pot, dissolve the sugar in 1 cup of water over medium heat.
- Add the grated ginger.
- Remove the pot from heat and add the lemon juice and the remaining 6 cups of water.
- Allow the mixture to cool to about 75°F (24°C).
- Once cooled, add the active dry yeast to the mixture and stir gently.
- The yeast will help carbonate the ginger ale during the fermentation process.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean 2-quart plastic bottle or two 1-quart bottles.
- Leave about 2 inches of space at the top. Seal the bottles tightly.
- Store the bottles at room temperature for 24-48 hours.
- Check the bottles periodically; when they feel firm to the touch, the ginger ale is carbonated.
- Refrigerate to stop the fermentation process. Serve the ginger ale chilled for the best flavor.
Tips & Tricks
- Be sure to use plastic bottles for fermentation to avoid the risk of glass bottles exploding due to pressure build-up.
- If you prefer a less sweet ginger ale, you can reduce the amount of sugar.
- Keep in mind that sugar is necessary for fermentation and carbonation.
- Adding a few slices of fresh ginger or a cinnamon stick to the bottle before sealing can introduce additional flavors.
Mise en Place
Ingredients
Utensils
- Granulated sugar
- Fresh ginger
- Lemon juice
- Active dry yeast
- Filtered water
- Large pot
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2-quart plastic bottle or two 1-quart plastic bottles
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