Making Ginger Ale Water Kefir: Steps and Benefits

Making Ginger Ale Water Kefir: Steps and Benefits

Ginger and lemon is a classic duo! Though they evoke memories of summer and refreshment with thirst-quenching lemonades, did you know this iconic combination could elevate your water kefir game? Look no further if you're tired of the same old water kefir flavours and crave an invigorating twist.

The combination of ginger and lemon introduces a delightful zest, transforming your water kefir into a healthy, refreshing, bubbly beverage. This blog will guide you on how to make ginger ale water kefir, highlighting its numerous benefits and exploring its unique flavour profile. So, prepare to transform your drink routine with a touch of zest and a burst of goodness!

Why ginger ale water kefir is a go-to choice?

Water kefir is a fermented beverage similar to kombucha, but made using kefir grains instead of a SCOBY. These grains are a unique symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast that ferment a sugar solution, typically made with water and sugar, to create a refreshing and probiotic-rich drink.

But let's be honest: Plain water kefir can feel a bit bland. So, infusing it with refreshing flavours will elevate your drinking experience. The zing of ginger and lemon blends well with your regular water kefir, making it a go-to flavour choice:

  • Easy to make: Making ginger ale water kefir is surprisingly simple and can be a rewarding DIY project. With a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious and healthy beverage right in your kitchen.

  • Probiotic powerhouse: Water kefir is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. This powerful probiotic beverage not only aids digestion but also helps reduce inflammation and symptoms related to digestive issues.

  • Natural remedy: Ginger is well-known for its digestive benefits. It can help soothe upset stomachs, reduce nausea, and aid digestion. Conversely, lemon is a rich source of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and supports overall health.  

  • Unique flavour profile: Combining ginger's spice and lemon's citrusy zing, this drink is a delightful alternative to sugary sodas. It provides a refreshing taste experience that's hard to replicate with commercial drinks.

  • Promote regularity: Ginger and lemon have soothing properties, which help relax stomach muscles, promoting regularity and maintaining regular digestive functions.

  • Detoxification: This refreshing drink aids in detoxifying the body by controlling harmful pathogens and reducing inflammation. The antioxidant properties contribute to overall well-being.

  • Reduced sugar content: Unlike store-bought ginger ales, homemade ginger ale water kefir contains less sugar. The kefir grains consume most of the sugar during the fermentation process, leaving you with a mildly sweet and refreshing drink.

Did you know your blood sugar can spike after late-night sleep? An expert from The Good Bug explains why it happens and how you can prevent it through the video below.

Has ginger ale water kefir got your attention? Great! Let's clear up some common confusion about ginger ale and ginger beer before making your brew!

Difference between ginger ale and ginger beer

The terms 'ginger ale' and 'ginger beer' are often used interchangeably, which can be confusing. While both beverages feature ginger as a prominent flavour, there are key distinctions between the two:

  • Ingredients and brewing process: Ginger ale, as the name suggests, is typically non-alcoholic and often flavoured with ginger extract or artificial ginger flavouring. On the other hand, ginger beer is made with real ginger, which gives it its bold, spicy flavour. It undergoes natural fermentation, giving it a cloudy look and a notable ginger bite.

  • Carbonation: Traditionally, ginger beer gets its fizz from natural fermentation with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, akin to kombucha brewing. However, manufacturers often use artificial carbonation in ginger ale, which adds to its sweetness and transparency.

  • Alcohol content: While many assume ginger beer is alcoholic, most commercial versions are non-alcoholic, containing no more than 0.5% ABV from fermentation. Conversely, ginger ale is almost always non-alcoholic, making it a popular choice as a mixer.

  • Origins and uses: Ginger beer can trace its roots back to mid-1700s Britain, originally brewed like traditional beer with higher alcohol content potential. Nowadays, the non-alcoholic type is more common. On the other hand, ginger ale was introduced to America in the mid-1800s, quickly becoming a favourite mixer.

If you're already wondering how you can whip up a batch at home, hold tight! We're about to jump to the fun part—making your own ginger ale water kefir!

How to make ginger ale water kefir?

If you're craving a refreshing drink besides lemonade, ginger ale water kefir might be your next favourite. It's an easy and delightful way to flavour your water kefir, combining the zing of ginger with the tartness of lemons. Let's see how to make ginger ale water kefir at home!

Ingredients and equipment

Preparing ginger ale water kefir is so convenient. You don't have to go grocery shopping; all the required ingredients will be within reach of your hands. So, let's round up the following ingredients and equipment:

  • Live active water kefir grains - 1/4 cup

  • Filtered water - 1 litre

  • Organic cane sugar (or brown sugar) - 1/4 cup

  • 2-inch fresh ginger or 1 tbsp grated ginger or 1 tbsp pre-made ginger juice

  • 2 lemon (or pre-made lemon juice)

  • Molasses for added flavour (optional) - 1/4 tsp

  • Glass jars for fermentation (e.g., wide-mouthed mason jars)

  • Cheesecloth or a strainer

  • Rubber band

  • Juicer or grater for extracting ginger juice

  • Lemon squeezer or juicer for juicing lemons

  • Glass bottles

Preparing the water kefir

If you already have a previously prepared water kefir with you, you can use it to make ginger ale water kefir. But don't worry if you don't have an active batch. Here's a simple guide to preparing it:

  1. Fill a jar halfway with filtered water and add ¼ cup of organic cane sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.

  2. Add the water kefir grains into the mixture.

  3. Cover the jar with a cloth or cheesecloth, securing it with a rubber band.

  4. Allow the mixture to ferment in a dark, warm area for 24-48 hours.

Extracting ginger juice

Once your water kefir is ready, the next step is to add ginger juice. You can either use store-bought juice or extract the juice in the following ways:

  • Juice the ginger: Take a 2-inch ginger piece and blend it with 2 tbsp water. Strain the juice, blend the solids again with 2 tbsp water, and strain again to maximise extraction.

  • Grate the ginger: Use a grater to grate the ginger finely. Place the grated ginger in cheesecloth and squeeze as much juice as possible.

For a more robust ginger flavour, use a larger piece of ginger or add more grated ginger.

Juicing lemons

Juice the lemon using a juicer or a lemon squeezer. Start with two large lemons and adjust the amount based on your preferred level of tartness.

Mixing the ginger ale base

So, you're done with the basic preparations. Now, all you have to do is combine everything to let the flavours steep in:

  1. Mix the prepared water kefir with ginger and lemon juice in a clean glass jar.

  2. Add a small amount of sugar and ¼ teaspoon of molasses if desired.

  3. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

  4. Taste and see if the ginger and lemon flavours are well combined. Adjust the flavour to your liking.

Second fermentation

The secondary fermentation is where the magic of carbonation happens:

  1. Pour your ginger ale base into bottles and leave some headspace to allow for expansion.

  2. Secure the bottles tightly and place them in a warm, dark spot for 24-48 hours or until the desired level of carbonation is reached.

  3. Monitor the bottles closely, as over-carbonation can cause them to burst.

  4. Once carbonated, refrigerate the bottles to slow down further fermentation and enjoy your refreshing ginger ale water kefir!

Before you race off to brew, let's see some useful tips that’ll make your homemade ginger ale water kefir not only a success but a standout in your drinks arsenal!

Tips for making ginger ale water kefir

Making ginger ale water kefir is a tasty venture and a relatively simple process, but even the smallest oversight can significantly impact the final flavour. To ensure a successful and delicious brew, keep these tips in mind:

  • Ginger strength: The amount of ginger you use will directly influence the spiciness of your kefir. Start with a small amount of ginger and gradually increase to your desired level of heat. You may blend and strain fresh ginger to incorporate its essence efficiently. If a strong ginger punch is your thing, add the whole liquid extracted from 2 inches of ginger blended with water.

  • Lemon intensity: The tartness from lemon juice adds vibrancy to your drink. Begin with the juice of two large lemons or 1 tbsp lemon juice, and adjust to suit your preference. If it's not as tart as you'd like, squeeze more. Conversely, if the zing overpowers other flavours, tone it down to achieve perfect harmony in taste.

  • Experiment with flavours: Ginger ale water kefir acts like a blank canvas, allowing you to paint it with flavours. Don't hesitate to experiment with turmeric, mint, or cardamom. Each brings a unique twist—turmeric with its earthy notes and health perks, mint achieving a refreshing lift, and cardamom adding exotic spice.

  • Cleanliness: Ensuring a clean environment while brewing is not just a recommendation; it's a necessity. Any lapse can lead to contamination risks. Therefore, you must sanitise jars, utensils, and your hands before handling the kefir grains and ingredients. Opt for filtered water and organic produce, as they offer additional protection against contamination. 

  • Check for signs of successful fermentation: You'll notice a few telltale signs when fermentation is complete. Bubbles will likely be climbing up the sides of the jar, and you might hear a gentle hiss when you open the jar. But if you notice mould or a sour smell, it is an immediate indicator to discard the batch and begin anew.

With your first sip of homemade ginger ale water kefir, you'll be hooked on its delightful flavour. The spicy ginger and tangy lemon offer a refreshing twist that offers both taste and health benefits, making this beverage a staple in your kitchen. So, embark on your brewing journey by learning how to make ginger ale water kefir.

But do you want to skip the brewing process and savour the taste immediately? The Good Bug offers a more convenient option with our array of specially curated water kefir drinks. Whether you're relaxing at home or spending time with loved ones, water kefir is your go-to drink partner. Visit our website to order your bottle and discover a new pathway to a healthier you!

References

https://fermentaholics.com/ginger-ale-water-kefir/

https://culturesforhealth.com/blogs/recipes/water-kefir-recipe-lemon-ginger-water-kefir

https://kefirko.com/blog/recipes/ginger-water-kefir-fermentation/

https://nourishingtime.com/ginger-ale-water-kefir/

https://www.feelgoodkefirgrains.com/ginger-lemon-water-kefir-recipe/

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