Ginger Beer Syrup
A sharp, fiery ginger syrup made by boiling fresh ginger with sugar and straining it. Mixed with soda, it forms the base of nonalcoholic "ginger beer."
What Is Ginger Beer Syrup?
Ginger beer syrup is an intense, sharp concentrate syrup obtained by slicing fresh ginger and boiling it in sugared water for a long time, then straining it. Despite the name "beer", it is alcohol-free; the name is a historical remnant of the old fermented production method.
It has a distinctly pungent-sharp taste coming from ginger's gingerol compound; it is prepared boosted with lemon juice and sometimes chili pepper.
Nutritional Values of Ginger Beer Syrup
100 grams of ginger beer syrup contains approximately 250 kcal of energy and a high amount of carbohydrate (sugar). Values vary by recipe, and are approximate.
How Should Ginger Beer Syrup Be Consumed?
Because of its intense sugar content, ginger beer syrup should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet; since it is usually consumed diluted with plenty of water, the amount of sugar per portion remains limited.
This information is general; ginger beer syrup is a sweetener, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Ginger Beer Syrup?
A good ginger beer syrup is one whose smell is pungent-fresh-gingery and whose color is light yellowish and clear. Bottles with a weakened smell or that are cloudy are not preferred.
- Smell should be pungent-fresh-gingery
- Color should be light yellowish-clear
- Real ginger should be listed in the ingredients
How Is Ginger Beer Syrup Stored?
Ginger beer syrup can be stored in the refrigerator in a closed bottle for a few weeks; homemade versions have a shorter shelf life since they contain no additives.
Using Ginger Beer Syrup in the Kitchen
Ginger beer syrup is most often diluted with sparkling water or soda to prepare an alcohol-free "ginger beer" drink, and is also used as the base for cocktails and mule-style drinks.
Are Ginger Beer Syrup and Ginger Ale the Same?
No; ginger beer syrup is a concentrated raw material that is diluted into a drink. Ginger ale, on the other hand, is generally a milder-flavored, factory-produced, finished beverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is ginger beer syrup made at home?
Sliced fresh ginger is boiled with sugar and water for 20-30 minutes, strained, and bottled with lemon juice added if desired.
Does ginger beer syrup contain alcohol?
No; there is no alcohol in modern production, the name "beer" is a naming remnant from the historical fermented production tradition.
Is Moscow Mule made with ginger beer syrup?
Yes; one of the core components of the classic Moscow Mule cocktail is ginger beer (or this syrup diluted with soda), mixed with vodka and lemon juice.