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Ginger Bug

A natural starter for making homemade fermented sodas and other cultured beverages.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups filtered non-chlorinated water
  • 1 –2 tsp ginger powder or 1–2 Tbsp freshly grated ginger
  • 1 –2 tsp sugar use with powder or 1-2 Tbsp sugar (use with grated)

Method
 

  1. Day 1: Add the water, ginger, and sugar to a clean quart jar. Stir well.
  2. Days 2–7: Each day, stir in another 1–2 tsp sugar and the same amount of ginger you used on Day 1. No need to add more water.
  3. Cover loosely with a cloth or lid that allows gas to escape. Keep at room temperature, stirring daily.
  4. Watch for bubbles! Your ginger bug is ready when it becomes bubbly and active, usually within 3–7 days. It may take longer in a cool kitchen.

Notes

To use: Strain out the ginger, if desired, and use some of the liquid to naturally ferment homemade sodas or other cultured beverages.
Check recipe for amount needed and if straining is required or suggested.
Notes: Fresh ginger with the peel on works beautifully. Ginger powder works, too, though it may produce a cloudier starter. Always use clean utensils and discard the bug if you see fuzzy mold or notice a rotten smell.