How to Make Ginger Extract with High-Proof Alcohol
Difficulty Levels: Easy
Total Time Needed: Standard Method - 4-6 weeks, NOIDS Herb Cooker - Additional 1 hour
Cost: Low
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, immune support.
Ginger tincture is a powerful remedy known for its numerous health benefits. Making an alcohol-based ginger tincture at home is straightforward and can be made even more potent using the NOIDS Herb Cooker. Let’s dive into the fun and easy process of creating your own ginger tincture!
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh ginger root (about 100 grams) or dried ginger powder (about 50 grams)
- High-proof alcohol (96% ABV or higher)
- A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
- A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- A dark glass bottle for storage
- NOIDS Herb Cooker (optional, for extra potency)
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Prepare the Ginger
- Using Fresh Ginger: Wash the ginger root thoroughly and slice it thinly to increase the surface area for extraction. Finely chop the ginger slices to release more of its beneficial compounds.
- Using Dried Ginger Powder: Measure out about 50 grams of dried ginger powder.
2. Place Ginger in the Jar
- Add to Jar: Place the fresh chopped ginger or dried ginger powder into the glass jar.
- Cover with Alcohol: Pour enough high-proof alcohol over the ginger to completely cover it. Ensure all pieces are submerged to prevent mold growth.
3. Seal and Store
- Seal the Jar: Close the jar tightly with a lid.
- Store: Place the jar in a cool, dark place. Let it sit for about 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to aid in the extraction process.
4. Strain the Tincture
- Strain the Mixture: After 4-6 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl. Press the ginger solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Bottle the Tincture: Pour the strained ginger tincture into a dark glass bottle to protect it from light, which can degrade the potency. Store it in a cool, dark place.
Optional Step: Using the NOIDS Herb Cooker for Extra Potency
- Evaporation Function: If you want to make the ginger tincture extra potent, use the NOIDS Herb Cooker. After straining the mixture, run the Evaporation function on the NOIDS Herb Cooker to reduce the alcohol content. This will concentrate the ginger compounds, making the tincture stronger.
- Recollecting Alcohol: The NOIDS Herb Cooker can also recollect the evaporated alcohol for reuse, making the process more efficient and cost-effective.
Tips and Hacks:
Tip 1: Fresh vs. Dried Ginger Both fresh ginger and dried ginger powder can be used, but fresh ginger provides a slightly more potent flavor and higher moisture content which might result in a more robust tincture.
Tip 2: High-Proof Alcohol Using high-proof alcohol like vodka ensures a potent extract. The higher the alcohol content, the more effective the extraction process.
Tip 3: Proper Storage Store the ginger tincture in a dark glass bottle to protect it from light and maintain its potency. Always label the bottle with the date and contents.
Tip 4: Dosage For health benefits, take 1-2 teaspoons of the ginger tincture daily. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Uses for Ginger Tincture:
- Culinary: Add to teas, smoothies, and recipes for a spicy kick.
- Medicinal: Take daily to boost immunity, ease nausea, and reduce inflammation.
- Topical: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to sore muscles for relief.
Conclusion
Making an alcohol-based ginger tincture at home is easy and rewarding. By following these steps and using the NOIDS Herb Cooker, you can create a powerful, concentrated extract that enhances your health and culinary creations.
Enjoy your homemade ginger tincture and stay healthy! 🌿🍋🍶
