Barbadian Ginger Beer
A refreshing and spicy homemade ginger beer with a kick, perfect for any occasion. This non-alcoholic beverage can be customized to your preferred level of sweetness and ginger intensity.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 medium pieces Fresh ginger root(about 4-5 inches total, washed well)
- 8 cups Water(divided)
- 1 whole Lime(peel and juice)
- 1 cup Brown sugar(or to taste)
- 15 pieces Whole cloves
- 2 sticks Cinnamon stick
- 0.5 tsp Vanilla extract(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the ginger: Lightly scrape the ginger root with a knife to remove most of the outer skin. Cut each piece into 2-3 smaller pieces.
💡 Tip: No need to peel the ginger completely; just remove the roughest parts. - 2
Blend the ginger: Add the prepared ginger pieces to a blender with 1 cup of water. Blend until a coarse pulp forms.
- 3
Simmer the ginger mixture: Transfer the ginger pulp to a large pot. Add 7 cups of water, the lime peel, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes.
💡 Tip: This step helps to extract the ginger flavor and spices. - 4
Steep the mixture: Remove the pot from the heat. Let the mixture steep on the counter for at least 2-4 hours, or longer for a stronger ginger flavor. Taste periodically.
💡 Tip: The longer it steeps, the more intense the ginger flavor will be. - 5
Strain and sweeten: Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into another container, pressing gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids. Stir in the brown sugar and lime juice until the sugar dissolves. Add vanilla extract, if using.
💡 Tip: You may want to double strain through cheesecloth for a smoother beverage. - 6
Chill: Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled. The flavors will meld as it chills.
- 7
Serve: Pour the ginger beer into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge or a slice of fresh ginger, if desired.
💡 Tip: For a fizzy version, you can add a splash of soda water just before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.
- ✓For a spicier kick, use more ginger or let it steep for a longer period.
- ✓This ginger beer is non-alcoholic, but a splash of rum can be added for an adult version.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use a mix of brown and white sugar for a more complex sweetness.
- Add a strip of orange peel along with the lime peel for a citrusy aroma.