Ginger Syrup and Homemade Ginger Ale

While replying to a HCG Forum post, Ginger Ale was brought up....and along came this!  Ginger is so good for you- known for indigestion, upset tummy, morning sickness, encouraging gallbladder function and decreasing inflammation. 

Perfect for the holiday (and flu) seasons coming- Great for ginger ale, dressings, marinades, stir fries, etc..!

Homemade Ginger Syrup
6 inches of ginger

2 tsp stevia, powdered or liquid

2 cups water

Slice the ginger.  In a medium heavy saucepan, combine the stevia and the water over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Add the ginger pieces.

Simmer over medium heat for 1 hour if you’ve sliced your ginger very thin, and at least twice that if you’ve cut your ginger larger. (Check on them occasionally to make sure they aren’t drying out and that the water isn’t evaporating too quickly.)

When the ginger is done (it will be soft), remove with slotted spoon or drain through a mesh strainer. Let the ginger syrup cool, then refrigerate. If you want a thicker ginger syrup, continue to cook over medium-low heat until it reaches the consistency you want.  Makes about 1 1/2 cups ginger syrup.  Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. 

To make homemade ginger ale:  add 2-4 tablespoons of ginger syrup to a large pint glass. Top with seltzer or sparkling water.  Add a lemon slice and sip happily.