Lemon Ginger Mocktail – a Non Alcoholic Recipe

A few years ago, the challenge of crafting both a cocktail and a non-alcoholic drink for a cooking class I was teaching sparked my creativity. Eager to feature my ever-popular Lemon Ginger Whiskey Cocktail, I began with the foundational elements of that drink and replaced the alcohol with the bubbly goodness of ginger beer, and the result was this deeply flavorful mocktail. Here are the reasons why this recipe works:

• Refreshing flavors. The key flavors in this mocktail are spicy ginger, zesty lemon, and earthy rosemary, which together create a bold, deep, and refreshing beverage.
• Honey rosemary infusion. Steeping rosemary in honey simple syrup adds a layer of complexity, bringing herbal richness that complements the citrusy and spicy elements.
• Playful fizz and tang. The effervescence of bubbly ginger beer not only adds a playful element but also contributes a lively, fizzy texture. The hint of tanginess from the lemon juice enhances the overall drinking experience.
• Versatile. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a family gathering, a baby shower, or simply participating in dry January, this Lemon Ginger Mocktail is a versatile beverage that suits a variety of occasions. 
• Easy prep. With a straightforward preparation process, this mocktail is accessible to both seasoned mixologists and those new to cocktail crafting. The combination of readily available ingredients makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
• Visual appeal. Beyond its delicious taste, the Lemon Ginger Mocktail sits pretty in the glass. The effervescent bubbles and the citrusy hues make it an inviting addition to any drink lineup.
• Proven recipe. I’m proud to say that I’ve received fan mail from cooking class students who made this recipe at home and received rave reviews from their guests!

Here’s all you’ll need to create this refreshing drink – and the good news is, other than the bitters, these ingredients will be available at your local grocery store:

• Honey
• Fresh Rosemary
• Fresh lemons
• Lemon or orange bitters (make sure they’re non-alcoholic) – can be omitted, or substitute a splash of fresh orange juice
• Ginger beer (I like Q brand, regular or light)

Here’s how you create this easy mocktail recipe:

1. Prepare the rosemary-infused simple syrup.
   In a small saucepan, heat the honey, water, and rosemary leaves over medium-low heat, stirring, just until the honey is dissolved. Remove from heat, cover and allow to steep (at room temperature) for at least one hour or overnight.
2. Shake together simple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
   Place 1/4 cup rosemary-infused simple syrup (with the rosemary) in a cocktail shaker. Add lemon juice and bitters; fill with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for around 10 to 15 seconds. 
3. Strain, add ginger beer, garnish and serve.
   Strain the shaker mixture into two cocktail glasses over ice. Divide ginger beer between the glasses. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a slice of lemon.

Feel free to get creative and customize my recipe to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:

• Substitute fresh mint leaves and mint sprigs for the rosemary.
• Try other fresh herbs, including basil, in the simple syrup.
• Use fresh lime juice and lime slices in place of the lemon.
• Use Sweet and Sour mix, club soda, or sparkling water instead of ginger beer.
• For more fruitiness, add a tablespoon or two of fresh orange juice. It’s also a good substitute for the bitters.
• Add fresh raspberries to the garnish for a pop of contrasting color.