Step by step

Method

5 steps

1. 1

   Peel and slice about 3 inches fresh ginger. In a saucepan, combine 1½ cups water, 1 cup granulated sugar, and the ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

2. 2

   Reduce heat to low and simmer until the syrup smells fragrant and gingery and looks slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. You should smell spice before you taste.

3. 3

   Remove from heat. Fish out and discard the ginger. Let the syrup cool completely.

4. 4

   Pour the syrup into a large pitcher. Stir in the juice of 4 lemons (about ¾–1 cup) and 4–5 cups cold water. Taste and add water or a spoonful of sugar as needed.

5. 5

   Add lemon slices. Chill, or pour over ice-filled glasses and serve cold. You want bright lemonade with a warm ginger kick — not flat lemon water or a syrup that burns your throat.