What is the difference between ginger ale and ginger beer

While ginger beer and ginger ale may seem synonymous, these two ginger-based drinks differ in many crucial respects. Simply put, from brewing to serving, they have only ginger to share and pretty much everything else to differ from. They have been enjoyed both plain and in alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, and they can even be beneficial for the health. In fact, as ginger is a healthy root, some people use ginger beer and ginger ale as home remedies to combat stomach troubles, sore throat, nausea, and heartburn.

This is because ginger has oils which have an extremely beneficial effect on health. Young people choose ginger beer and ginger ale increasingly due to their similarity to alcoholic beverages, and many people prefer them for their lower calorie count and lighter taste. Because of their unique aroma, appearance, and health benefits, the demand for these drinks is only growing. Reuters and MarketWatch report that market analyses project a healthy increase in growth both in the ginger beer and the ginger ale market.

But the question remains: what is the difference between ginger ale and ginger beer, and how will this difference affect your choice? Here is what you might want to know. Ginger is one of the oldest spices known to mankind, dating back over five centuries. It was first discovered by the ancient Chinese and Indian cultures, and it was introduced to the western world by the Roman empire in the first century AD.

However, it was not until the s that ginger received its first alcoholic twist in the form of ginger beer. Originating in England, this drink was made by fermenting sugar, ginger, water, and sometimes lemon with a starter culture.

Interestingly, ginger beer was in many ways a product of necessity, as people used to rely on the bacteria-killing alcohol levels to combat the general lack of safe drinking water.

The addition of ginger served to provide a mild, pleasant spiciness that made the drink more palatable. With the introduction of carbonation, ginger beer started to receive a non-alcoholic interpretation. Ginger ale is claimed to have been first invented in the late s by Thomas Joseph Cantrell, an Irish apothecary and surgeon.

It was the early version of what today is accepted as the widely known and consumed ginger ale. Also known as golden ginger ale , this type of drink was characterized by a darker color, sweet taste, and a strong ginger spice flavor. It did not contain alcohol. Ginger beer uses yeast while ginger ale uses whey.

Ginger beer is traditionally made by preparing ginger and lemon zest and steeping it in hot water. Yeast is then added to this ginger-lemon zest tea when it has cooled to degrees Celsius.

The mixture is then covered with a clean cloth and allowed to sit for 24 hours in a warm place to start the fermentation process. This mixture is then bottled in PET bottles and allowed to ferment for another 48 hours at room temperature, then transferred into the fridge.

After six days, sugar is added to it to kill the live yeast. Whey or ginger bug is then added to it and then bottled. The glass bottle is capped until airtight then allowed to sit on the counter for days. Fermentation will come from the whey. During this time, carbonation forms. A true-blue Moscow mule lover knows that ginger beer gives the beverage its exquisite taste and refreshing aroma, especially when served in a copper mug. But does ginger ale have the same effect on the cocktail in terms of flavor and feel?

For those who fancy a sweeter, bubblier, and less fuzzy drink experience, ginger ale may be a suitable alternative to ginger beer. But if you prefer your cocktail to have a more intense and citrusy flavor, the best ginger beer for Moscow mule is the one for you. It varies from company to company, and you may want to do your research into which company gives you the best ginger beer. With the summer in full swing, you might have a hard time narrowing down upon which refreshing drink to enjoy.

Ginger ale is an excellent choice for the whole family and one which comes with a host of health benefits. You can enjoy it on its own, pair it with your favourite foods, or use it as a mixer just as you would use ginger beer. Even the person living next door will have their own unique way of frying an egg or cooking a salmon fillet. This fascination led me on a journey across the globe to discover the countless practices and traditions the world of cooking has to offer.

Affiliate Link Policy - Privacy Policy. Skip to content Reading Time: 7 minutes All you need to know about ginger ale vs ginger beer. Contents show. All you need to know about ginger ale vs ginger beer. What is ginger ale? What is ginger beer? What is the difference between them? Best uses for Ginger ale Cough remedy. Ginger beer As a mixer. Settles your stomach. Difference in taste.

FAQS Are sweeteners used in either of them? Is ginger ale healthier than other sodas? Is ginger ale only for children? Can you substitute Ginger Ale for Ginger Beer? Is Ginger beer good for your stomach?

Why do they call ginger beer, beer? So, keep reading below to find out more about ginger ale vs ginger beer. Hops are one of the essential ingredients in creating beer. What flavors can you try? What cocktails can you make? What are the best brands? Ginger Ale. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.