What exactly is ginger beer?
The difference between ginger ale and ginger beer
The ginger beer drink, unlike the ginger ale drink, has a stronger and spicier taste, even though both drinks are non-alcoholic. Ginger ale is often treated as an alternative to alcohol or soda, while ginger beer can also be enjoyed as an integral part of cocktails, such as the famous Moscow Mule or sangria.
Where does ginger beer come from and how is it produced?
Traditional ginger beer originated in England in the middle of the 18th century. Then, for the first time, by fermenting and boiling water, sugar, ginger, sometimes lemon and a special starter culture known as the "ginger beer plant" (lat. Lactobacillus), a beer with about 11 percent alcohol was obtained. This also explains where the "beer" in the name of the drink comes from.
Today's version of ginger beer is non-alcoholic, and it is created using similar methods as cider - the fermentation process is more similar to the production of cider than to traditional beer. This ginger drink is divided into two subspecies - beer and ale. Ginger beer can contain alcohol (usually less than 0.5%), while ginger ale is slightly sweeter and the ginger is less intense.
Depending on the filtering process and the way it is brewed – ginger beer can be clearer or cloudy in appearance. Also, the method of preparation affects the taste, so different brands of ginger beer can differ in the bitterness of the taste.
How to enjoy ginger beer?
Although ginger beer is reserved for mixing with alcoholic beverages, numerous non-alcoholic cocktails can be made with this spicy drink.
The most famous cocktail in which ginger beer is one of the main ingredients is the Moscow Mule, which is traditionally served in copper pots. Generally, ginger beer goes well with alcoholic beverages, but it also goes well with citrus juices, such as orange and lemon. You can flavor the beer with pleasant flavors such as cinnamon or nutmeg, which should be mixed well into the drink, but never shaken, so as not to lose the carbonation.
If you are experiencing ginger beer for the first time, try Bottoms Up, a natural and minimally processed ginger drink from The Ginger People brand. Using quality ginger, slightly carbonated and well-filtered water and cane sugar, The Ginger People have created a drink that respects the traditional ginger beer recipe.
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