ProBiotic Rich – Ginger Ale

Ginger ale is a culture of beneficial bacteria made from ginger root and is the starter culture for many homemade fermented sodas and drinks.

How to make Ginger Ale probiotic rich fermented drink?

Ingredients-

1-2 fresh ginger roots

1/2 cup white sugar (important for starting the culture. Honey, stevia or other sweeteners will not work)

2 cups of water

Mason jar

Add 2-3 tablespoons of grated ginger, 1/2 cup sugar and to it add 2 cups of water to the mason jar. Stir with a non-metal spoon and lightly cover. I prefer covering with a tissue paper and rubber band. Each day for the next five days, stir the mixture at least once and add 1 tablespoon of grated ginger root and 1 tablespoon of sugar. If there are bubbles forming around the top of the mixture, which remains the mixture is active, it “fizzes” when stirred and it takes on a sweet and mildly yeasty smell. It will also become somewhat cloudy and opaque.

Once it has cultured, concentrate can be used to create fermented drinks as an healthy alternative to frizzy drinks, sweetened herbal mixtures or diluted fruit juice.

Notes-

Keep the culture away from other cultures like sauerkraut and kombucha or it can cross culture

To keep the culture alive and continue growing ,feed it regularly with 1tsp of grated ginger and 1tsp sugar per day if kept at room temperature. You can also “rest” it in the fridge and feed it 1 tablespoon each of ginger and sugar once a week. To reactivate it, remove and let it reach room temperature and start feeding it again.