Ginger Drink (Traditional Ginger Beer)

Ginger Drink (Traditional Ginger Beer)

This traditional Parsi ginger drink offers a refreshing, effervescent kick with a perfect balance of sweetness and spicy heat. Dried ginger root and cream of tartar are simmered to create a clear, aromatic syrup that is fermented overnight to develop its signature fizz. Served chilled, this homemade ginger beer is a revitalizing beverage perfect for warm afternoons or as a digestive aid.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Granulated sugar (Originally '1 Ratal' (approx 1 lb).)
  • 1 ounce Cream of tartar (Quantity estimated based on standard ginger beer ratios for 1 lb sugar. Original text 'Ratal Od' is ambiguous/garbled.)
  • 2 ounces Dried ginger powder (Sunth) (Originally '5 Tolas'. Converted to approx 2 ounces (1 Tola = 11.66g). Must be sifted through muslin cloth.)
  • 6 liters Water (Originally '8 bottles'. Historical bottles were typically ~750ml.)
  • 1 tablespoon Active dry yeast (Originally 'Khamir chamchi' (spoon of yeast).)

Instructions

  1. 1In a large stainless steel pot (originally a tin-lined vessel), combine the sugar, cream of tartar, and sifted dried ginger powder. Pour in the cold water and stir to mix.
  2. 2Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil. As the mixture boils, a scum will rise to the surface; carefully skim this off repeatedly until the water becomes clear.
  3. 3Remove the pot from the heat. Strain the liquid through a clean muslin cloth into a clean container to remove any sediment. Allow the liquid to cool completely until it is lukewarm (room temperature).
  4. 4Once the liquid is cool, stir in the yeast. Cover the container and let it sit undisturbed overnight (approx. 12 hours) to begin fermentation.
  5. 5After the overnight rest, pour the liquid into pressure-safe bottles (originally stone bottles) and seal them tightly. Store in a cool place for 3 days to carbonate. The drink will be ready to serve after this period. Chill before opening.
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