Homemade: Spiced Ginger Gin

Always looking for a good way to spread some homemade happiness over the festive season. Being Indian I love playing around with a mix of spices and Christmas time allows me to liberally dig into my spice bag and concont something each year.

This year I wanted to spread some good spirits without all the buzz that is often involved with festive drinking. Christmas is about bringing everyone together. This non-alcoholic delight is my way of ensuring that every guest, young or old, can clink glasses and join the merriment.

I love how this Spiced Ginger Gin can be the star of the show or play a supporting role. Over ice, in a mocktail, or as a secret ingredient in a holiday recipe—I've tried it all, and it never fails to impress.

The Evolving Landscape of Non-Alcoholic Gins:
In the ever-evolving landscape of beverages, a remarkable transformation has taken place, especially in the realm of non-alcoholic options. What was once a limited selection has burgeoned into a diverse array of choices, and non-alcoholic gins have emerged as a true revelation. No longer relegated to the sidelines, these alcohol-free alternatives have not only gained popularity but have become a symbol of innovation and taste.

For some Christmas might be a little more subdued and pensive this year. The world out there to me seems to have gone mad. Nonetheless, I take my moments from seeing the immense compassion and great solidarity so many people are showing. That alone gives room for hope and some little light for celebrations.

I love Christmas to be honest. Many of you who follow the blog over the years will know that although it is an adopted festivity for me, yet I love everything about it. From the glimmering tinsel that transforms my home into a winter wonderland to the decadent aroma of roasting duck breasts that signals the arrival of festive feasts, every element of this joyous season holds a special place in my heart.

From tinsel to togetherness: It's not just about the decorations or the food; it's about the shared laughter, the exchanged smiles, and the love that permeates every corner of my home. And yet this year while I will cherish each moment of my time with my family, I will be thinking of all those families who carry the burden of grief. My heart will be with all the people who find themselves in the spaces of grief. Their courage, resilience, and enduring strength deserve acknowledgment.

Hitting all the right spots this Christmas with my Lingonberry Festive Cake

The days of lackluster non-alcoholic options are long behind us. Today's non-alcoholic gins stand as a testament to the industry's dedication to crafting complex and nuanced flavors. My Spiced Ginger Gin exemplifies this renaissance, offering a taste experience that rivals traditional spirits. Cheers!

Recipe: Spiced Ginger Gin

Print Recipe

By Meeta K. Wolff
Prep Time: 10 min
Total Time: 10 minutes plus 24-36 hrs infusing
Makes: 800ml

Ingredients

• 100g ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 8 cloves
• 6 cardamom pods
• 100g light brown soft sugar
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 700ml gin (with or without alcohol)

Method

1. Thinly slice the ginger. Add the slices and cinnamon sticks, cloves and cardamom pods into a 1-litre sterilised wide-neck bottle, pot or jar. Add the sugar and pour in the gin. Mix everything till the sugar has dissolved, cover and leave in a cool, dry place to infuse for 24-36 hrs. Don’t leave it any longer, as the gin will start to taste bitter.
2. Strain through muslin- or coffee-filter-lined funnel into sterilised bottles and seal. The ginger gin will keep for several months in a cool, dark place. Serve with tonic over ice garnished with an orange slice, or use it as the base for a hot toddy.

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Closing thoughts

As you immerse yourself in the enchantment of the holidays, consider making Non-Alcoholic Spiced Ginger Gin a cherished part of your festivities. Here's to crafting memories, savoring flavors, and relishing in the magic that Christmas brings.

During this season of festivity, may our joy be tempered with compassion. As we gather with our families, let's hold space in our hearts for those who, for reasons beyond their control, cannot celebrate. In acknowledging their pain, we honor the resilience that defines the human spirit.

Wishing you all a warm festive season and hope your 2024 starts on a happy, high note!

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