Ginger soda
Ingredients (Makes ~1 liter)
1–2 inch fresh ginger root, peeled and thinly sliced or grated
4 cups filtered water
2–3 Tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
Juice of 1 lemon or Lime
Sparkling water (about 2 cups, chilled)
Optional: Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
Make ginger syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sliced ginger, water, and maple syrup. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Strain: Remove ginger pieces using a fine mesh sieve, pressing gently to extract flavor.
Add lemon: Stir in fresh lemon juice to the ginger syrup.
Mix with sparkling water: Fill a glass with ice, pour 2–3 Tbsp of ginger syrup (or to taste), and top with sparkling water. Stir gently.
Garnish & enjoy: Add fresh mint, lemon slices, or a pinch of cayenne if desired.
Tips & Variations 🌿
For a stronger ginger kick, use more fresh ginger or let the syrup steep longer.
Store leftover ginger syrup in the fridge for up to a week — mix with sparkling water as needed.
Try adding a splash of apple or pomegranate juice for a fruity twist.
This soda is naturally probiotic-friendly if you ferment the syrup slightly with a splash of kombucha starter for 12–24 hours.