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Ginger ale is a carbonated soft drink flavoured with ginger. You can drink a glass of ginger ale by itself or add it to any drink you choose. It is typically non-alcoholic but can also be used in cocktails. With ginger being a key ingredient, this beverage usually has a delightful combination of sweetness and spice. While ginger ale is mainly consumed as a beverage and is not typically considered a health drink, ginger is known for its ability to soothe digestive issues and reduce nausea.
In the West, typically ginger ale is found in two varieties: golden ginger ale, known for its strong, spicy ginger flavour and darker colour. And dry ginger ale, which is also known as pale ginger ale. This version is lighter in both flavour and colour and comparatively less sweet.
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When enjoyed on its own, ginger is usually served over ice and with a slice of lime. It is very popular as a mixer for cocktails, especially in classic drinks such as a Moscow Mule, Dark and Stormy, and Whiskey Ginger. Non-alcoholic drinks like Ginger Ale Lemonade or Ginger Ale Punch are also party favourites. Occasionally, ginger ale is also used in recipes for marinades, glazes, and desserts to add a sweet, spicy flavour.
In the summer, a chilled mocktail made with ginger ale can be especially refreshing. It is quite versatile and no matter what ingredients you choose for your mocktails, it easily balances out flavours. When you are making these mocktails, just make sure that all ingredients, especially the ginger ale, are well chilled before mixing. Fresh garnishes, such as mint, lime, and fruit slices, make a great difference. Tall glasses and plenty of ice help do the trick.
How To Make Ginger Ale At Home
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While you can buy the ginger ale from a store, it is also possible to make it at home, and it may be more fun to do so. In a pan, mix grated ginger, sugar, and water. Let it come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes until the mixture thickens into a syrup. Strain the syrup through a sieve to remove the solid pieces of ginger. In a glass, add about 2 tablespoons of the ginger syrup. Add some ice or soda and then stir it. You can squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and add a slice of lemon to the ginger ale if you are drinking it on its own.
Customising your ginger ale mocktails can be fun. We have put together some Indian-style ginger ale mocktails for you to try at home. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes to create your own unique mocktails.
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Ginger Ale Masala Soda
A twist on the desi masala soda can be interesting and a break from the usual. All you have to do is replace soda with ginger ale. The flavour profile changes and it’s quite delicious. Add a pinch of chaat masala and black salt, along with some freshly squeezed lemon juice, to a glass. Fill it up with some ice cubes and pour the ginger ale over the mixture. You can add fresh mint leaves and a wedge of lime to the glass.
Ginger Ale Mango Fizz
Summer is also mango season. Use pulp or juice made from a fresh mango for this drink. In a glass, mix mango pulp or juice with a splash of lemon juice. Add as many ice cubes as you need, pour ginger ale on top and give it a stir. Add chunky pieces of mango, or slices and mint leaves to this drink.
Ginger Ale and Aam Panna Twist
Why should the kairi or green mangoes be left behind this summer? Take homemade aam panna in a glass and add a pinch of cumin powder and black salt. Ice cubes and ginger ale go in too. Use fresh mint leaves for the final touch.
Ginger Ale and Jaljeera Cooler
The ginger ale version of a Jaljeera tastes great too. You’ll need jaljeera powder and lemon juice for this one. Add them to a glass with ice cubes and ginger ale. Throw in some cucumber slices and mint leaves for freshness.
Ginger Ale and Rose Cooler
Rose syrup used to be such a staple in Indian homes, especially during the hot summers. It would usually be served mixed with water or milk. To make this mocktail, you can add ginger ale to rose syrup, lemon juice and ice cubes. Adding rose petals and fresh mint leaves will make the drink look pretty and party-perfect.
Ginger Ale Citrus Punch
Not the usual punch! For this version, mix orange juice and lemon juice in a glass. Add honey or sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink. Add ice cubes. Pour ginger ale over the mixture and add orange and lemon slices.
Ginger Ale Pomegranate Spritzer
Try this if you like pomegranate juice. In a glass, mix the pomegranate juice with lemon juice. Then add your ice cubes, ginger ale, and mint leaves, and finish with the star ingredient—tiny, ruby-like pomegranate seeds.
