Burning to Know: A Short History of Ginger Beer

Street life in London 1877 with the "mush-fakers" (credit)

Ginger beer has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. Here's a brief overview:

1. Origins in Ancient Times: Ginger has been used for its medicinal properties and flavor enhancement in food and drink for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including those in China, India, and the Middle East, used ginger root in various forms, including as a beverage.
2. Introduction to Europe: Ginger was introduced to Europe by the Romans, who imported it from Asia. Initially, it was primarily used for medicinal purposes. However, its popularity as a spice grew, and it became a staple in European cuisine.
3. Development of Ginger Beer: The exact origins of ginger beer are unclear, but it likely evolved from a fermented ginger drink that was popular in England during the 18th century. This early version of ginger beer was brewed using water, sugar, ginger, and sometimes lemon juice or cream of tartar. Moonglade Brews uses a nearly identical recipe to this original English recipe! The fermentation process involved adding yeast, which produced carbonation; however Moonglade Brews does not use yeast (too many exploding cans and bottles...yikes!).
4. Commercialization in the 19th Century: Ginger beer gained popularity in England during the 19th century, particularly among the working class. It was sold as a non-alcoholic alternative to beer and was often consumed by sailors to prevent scurvy due to its high vitamin C content. (Sidenote: if you've never researched scurvy or read about seafaring before the discovery of vitamin C to fight scurvy, then please be assured it is a most horrible disease. Read or listen to The Wager to learn more). Commercial production of ginger beer began during this time, with companies such as Fentimans and Crabbie's becoming well-known for their ginger beer. Moonglade Ginger Beer didn't hit the scene until 2017, long after scurvy was cured!
5. Colonial Influence: Ginger beer was also popular in British colonies, including the Caribbean and North America. In the Caribbean, it became associated with the traditional alcoholic beverage known as "ginger beer," which was made by fermenting ginger, sugar, and water. This alcoholic version of ginger beer is still popular in the Caribbean today.
6. Modernization and Variations: In the 20th century, ginger beer production became more industrialized, with companies using modern brewing techniques and equipment. Today, ginger beer is enjoyed worldwide and comes in a variety of forms, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions. It is often used as a mixer in cocktails, such as the Moscow Mule and the Dark 'n' Stormy.

Throughout its history, ginger beer has remained popular due to its unique flavor and versatility, evolving from a homemade beverage to a commercially produced staple in bars and households around the world. Many rely on it for its health benefits provided by the ginger. Moonglade Ginger Beer actually uses over 1/2 ounce of fresh pressed, organic ginger in every can, or over 17,000mg! Along with organic ginger extract and a healthy dose of capsicum (jalapeno) extract you will definitely feel the burn and experience the health benefits at the same time.