Description
Learn how to make a ginger bug, a natural starter for fermenting beverages like ginger ale and fruit sodas. This probiotic-rich concoction is easy to make and adds a wonderful depth of flavor to homemade sodas.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Ginger Bug:
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, grated (with skin)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup filtered or non-chlorinated water (plus additional for feedings)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ginger Bug: In a clean glass jar, combine the grated ginger, sugar, and water. Stir with a non-metal spoon until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Let it Ferment: Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or paper towel secured with a rubber band. Leave the jar at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Feed the ginger bug daily by adding 1 tablespoon each of grated ginger and sugar, stirring well after each addition.
- Wait for Fermentation: Continue feeding for 5 to 7 days, or until the mixture becomes bubbly and slightly effervescent with a yeasty, ginger aroma.
- Ready for Use: Once active, the ginger bug is ready to use as a natural starter for fermenting beverages like homemade ginger ale or fruit sodas.
Notes
- Use organic ginger if possible to avoid pesticide residues.
- Avoid using metal utensils, which can disrupt the fermentation.
- Store the ginger bug in the refrigerator when not in use and feed weekly to maintain activity.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage Starter
- Method: Fermentation
- Cuisine: Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
