Ginger beer

Extra-spicy, aromatic, and sharp, mirroring a premium craft ginger beer. For a serious, burning bite, grate the ginger rather than slicing it. Grating breaks the cell walls and releases significantly more gingerol (the compound responsible for the heat) into the syrup.

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Simmer the Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced ginger, brown sugar, water, and whole spices (if using). Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.

Step 2

Reduce and Concentrate: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and takes on a thicker, syrupy consistency.

Step 3

Remove the pan from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the ginger steep for an additional 20 to 30 minutes to draw out maximum fiery flavor.

Step 4

Strain and Cool: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar, pressing firmly on the ginger pieces with the back of a spoon to extract all the concentrated juices. Discard the solids.

Step 5

Acid and Storage: Stir the fresh lime juice into the strained syrup. Let the syrup cool completely at room temperature, then seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.

Step 6

Fill your SodaStream bottle with cold, filtered water up to the fill line and carbonate it to your highest preferred fizz level.

Step 7

Pour 2 to 3 tablespoons of your chilled homemade ginger beer syrup into the bottom of a serving glass filled with ice.

Step 8

Slowly tilt the glass and top up with your freshly carbonated SodaStream water. Gently stir from the bottom with a long spoon to integrate without defizzing.

Step 9

Garnish with a fresh lime wheel or a sprig of slapped mint.