Summer just got a whole lot sweeter with these refreshing ginger beer recipes! As the temperatures rise and the sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like cracking open a cold glass of ginger beer to quench your thirst. But why settle for store-bought when you can create your own unique flavor combinations at home? From spicy Jamaican ginger beers to tangy lemon and honey infused brews, we’ve got 20 delicious recipes to spice up your summer.
Whether you’re looking to add a zesty twist to your cocktails, elevate your BBQ game with homemade sauces, or simply enjoy a glass on its own as a refreshing treat, these recipes are sure to please. So grab your ginger beer and let’s get started on this culinary adventure! In the next section, we’ll dive into our first recipe, Homemade Fermented Ginger Beer – a classic summer staple that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Homemade Fermented Ginger Beer
Get ready to spice up your beverage game with this simple recipe for homemade fermented ginger beer! This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup active dry yeast (such as Lalvin K1-V1116 or Red Star Premier Cuvee)
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger, peeled
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
3. Add grated ginger, lemon juice, and salt to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized glass jar or container with a wide mouth. Cover with a cloth or paper towel to keep dust out.
5. Let the fermentation process take place at room temperature (around 68-72°F) for 2-3 days, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the mixture becomes slightly fizzy.
6. Strain the ginger beer into a separate container before serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 days (fermentation time)
Spicy Jamaican Ginger Beer
Get ready to quench your thirst with this refreshing and spicy twist on traditional ginger beer!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1/4 cup grated fresh turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add sliced ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, and lime zest. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug.
4. Stir in lime juice and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon and Honey Ginger Beer
Refresh your senses with this zesty and sweet twist on traditional ginger beer! This homemade brew combines the tanginess of lemon, the warmth of honey, and the spiciness of ginger for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, sliced ginger, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for another 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jug.
4. Add honey, yeast, and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow fermentation.
6. Once fermented, strain and bottle the ginger beer.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (plus 24-hour fermentation)
Sparkling Ginger Beer Mojito
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito. The addition of sparkling ginger beer adds a lively and invigorating touch to this summer-ready drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 oz mint leaves, plus more for garnish
– 4 oz sparkling ginger beer
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavor.
2. Add the white rum, lime juice, and a handful of ice to the shaker. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
3. Fill a highball glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
4. Top with sparkling ginger beer and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Ginger Beer and Lime Cooler
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on a classic cooler, combining spicy ginger beer with zesty lime juice and sweet honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ginger beer
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the ginger beer, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh lime wedges, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – just mix and serve!
Turmeric-Infused Ginger Beer
This refreshing beverage combines the spicy warmth of ginger with the earthy, anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a unique twist on traditional beer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup light beer (optional)
– Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add grated ginger and ground turmeric to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add yeast to the mixture and stir gently.
5. Cover the pot with a cloth and let it ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 2 days or until bubbles form on surface.
6. Strain the liquid into a large pitcher or jug. Discard solids.
7. Add light beer (if using) and stir well.
8. Chill in refrigerator before serving.
9. Serve over ice with sparkling water, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + fermentation time (2 days)
Peach and Ginger Beer Float
Peachy Keen Float: A Twist on a Classic!
Combine the sweetness of peaches with the spicy kick of ginger beer, and you’ll have a refreshing treat perfect for warm weather. This unique float is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup ginger beer
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a tall glass, add the diced peaches.
2. Pour in the ginger beer until the peaches are covered.
3. Place the scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the peach mixture.
4. If desired, top with whipped cream and chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just assemble and serve!)
Note: You can adjust the amount of ginger beer to your taste. For a stronger ginger flavor, use 1.5 or 2 cups. For a milder flavor, start with 3/4 cup and add more as needed.
Dark and Stormy Cocktail with Ginger Beer
Escape the ordinary with this revitalizing cocktail, combining the spicy kick of ginger beer with the rich flavor of dark rum. Perfect for a stormy night or a sunny day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Dark Rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
– 4 oz Ginger Beer
– Lime Wedge (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the dark rum.
3. Top with ginger beer, stirring gently to combine.
4. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink, if desired, and drop it in.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Enjoy your Dark ‘N Stormy!
Ginger Beer Margarita
This Ginger Beer Margarita recipe adds a spicy kick to the traditional margarita, perfect for those who love a little heat. The ginger beer adds a crisp and refreshing flavor that complements the tequila and lime perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 ounce triple sec or Cointreau
– 4 ounces ginger beer
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (shaking and chilling)
Pineapple Ginger Beer Punch
Elevate your gathering with this refreshing and revitalizing punch that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the spicy kick of ginger beer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup ginger beer
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– Slices of fresh pineapple and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, ginger beer, and simple syrup. Stir until the simple syrup is fully dissolved.
2. Add fresh lime juice and stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the punch over ice in glasses or a large punch bowl. Garnish with slices of pineapple and lime.
Cooking Time: None
Apple Cider Ginger Beer
As the leaves start to fall, warm up with a glass of Apple Cider Ginger Beer that combines the sweetness of apples with the spicy kick of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, water, and sliced ginger. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches 180°F (82°C).
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the solids.
4. Add sugar and yeast. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then cover the pitcher with a cloth.
5. Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature (around 68°F/20°C) for 2-3 days, or until the bubbles stop forming on the surface.
6. Strain the beer again and refrigerate before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ginger Beer Sangria
This recipe combines the spicy kick of ginger beer with the sweetness of fruit and wine, creating a unique and delicious sangria perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup of ginger beer
– 1 cup of mixed fruit (such as strawberries, pineapple, and orange slices)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
– Sprigs of mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine and ginger beer. Stir to combine.
2. Add the mixed fruit and stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the top of the fruit and stir to combine.
4. Squeeze in the fresh lime juice and stir again.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve over ice with sprigs of mint as garnish.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a refreshing drink that can be served immediately.
Chai-Spiced Ginger Beer
Elevate your beverage game with this unique and flavorful Chai-Spiced Ginger Beer recipe, perfect for a crisp autumn evening or a cozy winter night.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ginger beer (unsweetened)
– 1/4 cup chai spice blend (or to taste)
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– 1/4 cup honey (or to taste)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine ginger beer and chai spice blend. Stir well to combine.
2. Add lemon juice and stir gently.
3. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, with ice cubes if desired. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy assemble-serve delight.
Berry Blast Ginger Beer Smoothie
A refreshing twist on traditional smoothies, this recipe combines the spicy kick of ginger beer with the sweetness of mixed berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup ginger beer
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen mixed berries, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the ginger beer and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just blend and go!)
Ginger Beer BBQ Sauce
Ginger Beer BBQ Sauce Recipe
Elevate your BBQ game with this unique and flavorful condiment that combines the spiciness of ginger beer with the richness of traditional BBQ sauce. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a twist to their grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup ginger beer
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, ginger beer, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Usage: Brush this delicious BBQ sauce onto your grilled meats during the last few minutes of cooking, or serve on the side as a dipping sauce.
Ginger Beer Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable game with this sweet and spicy twist on classic carrots! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the bold flavor of ginger beer, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch thick sticks
– 1/4 cup ginger beer
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ginger beer, honey, and olive oil.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot sticks in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ginger Beer Ice Cream Float
Elevate your ice cream game with this unique and refreshing float featuring spicy ginger beer and creamy vanilla ice cream. Perfect for a warm day or as a twist on the classic root beer float.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of vanilla ice cream
– 2 cups of ginger beer
– 1/4 cup of club soda
– Whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a tall glass or mug.
2. Pour 1-2 inches of ginger beer over the ice cream, depending on your desired level of spiciness.
3. Top with club soda for added fizz.
4. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 2 minutes.
Ginger Beer Marinated Chicken
Experience the harmonious fusion of sweet and spicy flavors with this refreshing ginger beer marinated chicken recipe! Perfect for a quick dinner or a BBQ gathering, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup ginger beer
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together ginger beer, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (400°F). Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill or bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ginger Beer Pancake Syrup
Elevate your pancakes with a unique and flavorful syrup that combines the warmth of ginger beer with the sweetness of caramelized sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons ginger beer (chilled)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until sugars dissolve.
2. Add grated ginger and whisk to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chilled ginger beer and butter until smooth.
5. Let syrup cool slightly before using or storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ginger Beer Pickled Vegetables
Elevate your snack game with these tangy and crunchy pickled vegetables infused with the spicy warmth of ginger beer. Perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or enjoying as a crunchy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, cauliflower, and onions)
– 1/2 cup ginger beer
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed vegetables and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the ginger beer, apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the prepared vegetables and let them sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Once pickled, strain the vegetables from the liquid and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + chilling time
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these 20 refreshing ginger beer recipes perfect for summer! From classic homemade fermented ginger beer to creative twists like peach and ginger beer float, there’s something for everyone. Sip on spicy Jamaican ginger beer or lemon and honey ginger beer, or try your hand at making sparkling ginger beer mojitos and more. Whether you’re in the mood for a cool drink, a tasty twist on BBQ, or a sweet treat, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
