- In a clean jar, mix the grated ginger, sugar, and water. Stir well.
- Cover the jar loosely with a clean cloth and secure it with a rubber band.
- Leave it at room temperature for 3–5 days, stirring once daily. The ginger bug is ready when it becomes fizzy and you see bubbles forming.
Step 2: Prepare the Ginger Beer Base
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 liter of water to a boil.
- Add the grated ginger and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Ferment the Ginger Beer
- Once the ginger mixture has cooled, strain it into a clean bottle or jar to remove the ginger pieces.
- Add the lemon juice and ½ cup of the prepared ginger bug starter. Stir well.
- Seal the bottle tightly and let it ferment at room temperature for 1–3 days, depending on how fizzy you like your ginger beer.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Serve
- Once the desired level of fizz is achieved, transfer the bottle to the refrigerator to slow the fermentation.
- Serve chilled over ice, garnished with mint or lime if desired.