Jamaican Ginger Beer is a spicy and refreshing beverage not only loved by Jamaicans but by many Caribbean Island.

This Homemade Jamaican Ginger Beer is mostly enjoyed during the Christmas holidays but often served at parties and other events.

It is made from fresh ginger root, lime juice, water and spices and then sweetened with sugar.

This beverage is a staple in Jamaican cuisine.

Ginger beer is known for its strong, spicy flavor and is a popular alternative to traditional carbonated sodas.

The longer it sits before straining, the stronger the flavors become.

You can choose to ferment it or not.

It’s your choice.

For this recipe, I did not ferment it.

Way, way, back in the days, Jamaicans would used something called Chew Stick (Gouania Lupuloides), to add to their Ginger Beer.

Some Jamaicans still used the chew stick to add to their ginger beer, root tonics and root beer.

It adds flavor and some bitterness.

I was not able to get my hands on some, so I omitted it.

However, Cream of Tartar can also be used instead of chew stick.

Again, I didn’t choose to ferment it.

When I was living in Jamaica, every Christmas season, I will get a bottle of Homemade Jamaican Ginger Beer, a bottle of Sorrel and a Jamaican Christmas Black Cake from a family friend (I call her my second mom).

My heart would smile each time because ain’t nothing like homemade Christmas treats.

So to not miss home too much, I attempted to make my very own Jamaican Ginger Beer.

It will never be the same but, it was very close (it was missing my second mother’s touch).

History of Jamaican Ginger Beer

The origins of ginger beer can be traced back to the early 18th century in England, where it was first brewed as a fermented alcoholic drink.

However, the Jamaican version of ginger beer is a non-alcoholic beverage that is made by combining fresh ginger, sugar, water, and lime juice.

Jamaican ginger beer became popular in the 19th century when it was used as a remedy for stomach ailments and as a refreshing drink during the hot summer months.

It was also a popular drink among workers in the sugar cane fields, as it provided them with a refreshing and energizing boost.

Overall, the history of Jamaican ginger beer is a rich and fascinating one that spans centuries and continents.

Whether enjoyed as a refreshing drink or used for its medicinal properties, ginger beer continues to be a beloved beverage that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Ingredients of Jamaican Ginger Beer

Jamaican ginger beer is a refreshing beverage that is made from a few simple ingredients.

Here are the main ingredients that are used to make this delicious drink:

Ginger

Ginger is the star ingredient in Jamaican ginger beer.

It gives the drink its signature spicy kick and provides a range of health benefits.

Ginger is known to help with digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system.

To make ginger beer, fresh ginger root is grated and steeped in hot water to extract the flavor.

Brown Sugar

Brown Sugar is used to sweeten Jamaican ginger beer and balance out the spiciness of the ginger.

Traditional recipes call for brown sugar, which gives the drink a rich, caramel-like flavor.

Some recipes also use honey or molasses to sweeten the drink.

Lime Juice

Lime juice is often added to Jamaican ginger beer to give it a tangy, citrusy flavor.

It also helps to balance out the sweetness of the sugar and complements the spiciness of the ginger.

Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best flavor.

Is Jamaican Ginger Beer Alcoholic?

No, it is not alcoholic because it is called ‘ginger beer’.

It is just a strong flavorful beverage that is kids friendly.

Some Jamaicans do allow it to go through a fermentation process by using chewing sticks.

Also, after the Jamaican Ginger Beer is made, most persons add a few tablespoons of rum just to give it a kick, just like my Jamaican Sorrel Drink.

Health Benefits of Ginger Beer

Ginger is a root that has been used throughout generation as a natural home remedy for upset stomach, morning sickness and nausea.

Some of the health benefits are:

• helps to boost the Immune System
• has anti-inflammatory properties
• helps lower cholesterol levels
• excellent antioxidant

In conclusion, Jamaican Ginger Beer is not only a delicious drink but also provides several health benefits.

It can improve digestive health, reduce inflammation, and protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

How to make Jamaican Ginger Beer Carbonated?

To make the Homemade Jamaican Ginger Beer carbonated, add some soda water or sparkling water.

As simple as that.

Instead of Brown Sugar, What else can I use to sweetened it?

Instead of Brown Sugar, you can use Granulated White Sugar.

Also, you can use agave or maple syrup to sweeten it.

How to Store Homemade Jamaican Ginger Beer

To store your Jamaican Ginger Beer, keep it in an air tight container in the refrigerator for about 1 to 2 weeks.

This helps to to slow down the fermentation process and preserve the quality.

Please keep in mind that separation will occur, so be sure to gently stir before serving.

How to make Jamaican Ginger Beer

Firstly, wash and juice the limes. Set aside for later.

Secondly, wash, peel or scrap the skin off and wash again the ginger roots pieces. Grater or blend the ginger root pieces.

Thirdly, add the grated ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves and water in a large pot. Cover with a lid and allow it to come to a boil.

Fourthly, remove the pot with ginger mixture from the heat. Allow to cool down and then place in the refrigerator overnight or for a few days.

Finally, strain the ginger mixture over a large pitcher. Add the brown sugar, freshly lime juice and rum (if using). Taste and adjust by adding more water if it is too strong or more brown sugar. Serve and enjoy.

Jamaican Ginger Beer Recipe

Ingredients

• 1lb Ginger root
• 2 Cinnamon Sticks
• 10 cups Water
• 3-5 Whole Cloves
• 1/3 cup fresh Lime juice
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups of Brown Sugar
• 2 Tablespoon Appleton Estate Rum (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash the limes and roll them to produce more juice. Slice each limes into 2 halves and juice to make the amount needed. Set aside for later.
2. Remove the skin from the ginger root pieces by scraping it or peeling it. Wash the ginger roots pieces. Chop the ginger roots into small pieces if using a blender..
3. Grater the ginger root pieces by using a box grater or any other grater. You can also add the pieces of ginger root to a blender with 1 cup of water. Blend together.
4. In a large pot, add all 10 cups of water (if you use a blender, only add the remaining 9 cups of water), cloves, cinnamon sticks and the grated/pureed ginger.
5. Mix together and allow to come to a boil on medium heat.
6. Remove from the heat as soon as it starts to boil. Allow the ginger mixture to cool down and then place in the refrigerator for atleast for 4 hours if you are planning on using it the same day. If not, leave it in the refrigerator overnight or for a few days.
7. With a fine mesh strainer, strain the ginger mixture or use a cheesecloth over a large pitcher.
8. Add the brown sugar, freshly squeeze lime juice and the Appleton Estate rum (if using) and stir together. Adjust to taste by adding more water, if it’s too strong or some more brown sugar.
9. Serve over ice and enjoy.

Notes:

1. Make sure to juice the limes first and set aside for later.
2. After removing the skin from the ginger root pieces, you can grater it or blend it. Your choice.
3. If you choose to blend the ginger root pieces, use 1 cup of the water to blend it.
4. Remove the ginger mixture from the heat, as soon as it starts to boil.
5. Allow to cool completely, before placing it in the refrigerator.
6. If you are using it on the same day, let it stay in the refrigerator for about 4 hours. If not, leave it overnight or for a few days.
7. Remove from the refrigerator and strain with a fine mesh strainer or a cheese cloth.
8. The Appleton Estate rum is optional. You don’t have to add it to the ginger beer. Also keep in mind, add whatever rum you want to add if using.
9. If it is too strong, add more water to it. Add more brown sugar, if needed.

Please let me know what you think about this Jamaican Ginger Beer Recipe in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by and please come back again.

Blessings and Love always, as you carry on, on your YouNique Journey!