GINGER BEER

1/2 cup organic raw cane sugar
1/2 cup fresh ginger juice (from about 2 packed cups freshly grated ginger)
Zest of 1 lemon
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (from 3-4 lemons)
6 cups sparkling water
Ice
Several fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Lemon slices for garnish

Make a simple syrup by combining 1/2 cup water with the sugar in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir well until hot to the touch and the sugar is completely dissolved.

Pour the ginger juice into a pitcher and add the simple syrup, lemon zest and lemon juice; stir well.

Slowly add the sparkling water. Stir well. Add the ice. Stir well again. Garnish with mint sprigs and lemon slices.

Makes about a half-gallon
Source: Grub: Ideas for an Urban Organic Kitchen by Anna Lappe and Bryant Terry