Homemade Ginger Ale
In their trek across the American west, pioneers encountered many new things. Survival often depended on their ability to adapt -- and adapt they did. One of the new things they learned to use for their own benefit was the naturally occurring soda water pools.
Here is a recipe that you can use in conjunction with a study of the American West or pioneers. It would also be handy in a study of geology (e.g., how are the soda pools formed). Or, how about a fun study of American cuisine?
Home Made Ginger-ale
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup peeled and grated ginger root
paring knife
one quart jar with lid
one quart of cold water
large bowl
sieve
paper coffee filter
sugar to taste
soda water (available at your grocer in the soda aisle)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Pour the water into the quart jar. Add the grated ginger root.
2. Shake the jar's contents and then let it steep for a full twenty-four (24) hours.
3. Line the sieve with the coffee filter. Pour the steep water and ginger root into the coffee filter and let it drain through the sieve into the large bowl. Let ginger root completely drain.
4. Discard the filter and ginger root. Clean the jar and then pour the drained ginger water back into the jar.
5. Add sugar to taste. Store this is in the refrigerator.
To serve this as ginger-ale, pour one part cold ginger water to one part cold soda water. Add ice and enjoy.
