Homemade Ginger Beer

1. Peel and finely grate the ginger – the more surface area, the stronger the flavour.

2. Boil the grated ginger with 500 ml water and the sugar, then simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Take off the heat and leave to infuse for another 20 minutes.

4. Strain through a fine sieve and cool completely.

5. Add the lemon juice and taste – good ginger beer is hot and sharp at the same time.

6. To serve, dilute with cold soda water to taste and pour over plenty of ice with a slice of lemon.

Tip: This is the quick, yeast-free version – non-alcoholic and ready immediately. A traditional British refresher, and perfectly suitable for children.