- Why is it too spicy?
- Ginger's strength increases with cooking time. If you find it too strong, dilute with hot water, or cook for less time next time.
- Can I drink it cold?
- Yes, chilled it makes an excellent refreshing lemonade base.
Hot ginger & lemon infusion
This is not just a drink, but a natural shield against winter illnesses. Gingerol, which gives ginger its heat, transforms under heat (into zingerone), which is sweeter but has the same warming effect. The secret lies in timing: ginger must be cooked for strength, but lemon and honey should only be added at the end to preserve their vitamin content.
Ingredients
40
g
Fresh ginger root
50
ml
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (approx. 1-2 lemons)
40
g
Artisan honey
1
l
Water
4
pcs
Lemon slices (for garnish)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Chopping board and sharp knife
- Fine sieve
- Citrus juicer
Instructions
1
✓
Don't peel the ginger (the skin has lots of flavour too), just wash thoroughly and cut into thin slices.
Tip: Thin slicing increases surface area, so hot water extracts valuable compounds more easily (diffusion).
2
✓
Put the ginger in the water, boil, then simmer (don't just steep) covered on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
Tip: Ginger fibres are tough; boiling helps break cell walls. The lid prevents essential oils from escaping with the steam.
3
✓
Remove from heat and let cool for about 5-10 minutes (to approx. 60°C).
Tip: This step is critical for the honey and lemon, which are heat sensitive.
4
✓
Strain the decoction, pressing out the ginger slices with a spoon too.
Tip: The liquid remaining in the slices is the most concentrated in flavour.
5
✓
Stir in the lemon juice and honey until dissolved.
Tip: Lemon acidity lightens the colour of the decoction (pH indicator effect) and balances the honey's sweetness.
6
✓
Pour into mugs and drop a fresh lemon slice into each.
Tip: The steam from the warm drink also helps clear airways while drinking.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 40 g Fresh ginger root
- 50 ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice (approx. 1-2 lemons)
- 40 g Artisan honey
- 1 l Water
- 4 pcs Lemon slices (for garnish)