Step 1

Make a "wort" for your ginger ale by placing 3 cups of the water, minced ginger root, sugar, molasses if needed, and salt in a saucepan and bringing to a boil.

Step 2

Simmer the mixture for about five minutes until sugar is dissolved and mixture starts to smell like ginger.

Step 3

Remove from heat and add additional water. This should cool it but if not, allow it to cool to room temperature before moving to the next step.

Step 4

Add fresh lemon or lime juice and ginger bug or whey.

Step 5

Transfer to a 2 quart glass mason jar with an air-tight lid. Stir well and put lid on.

Step 6

Leave on the counter for 2-3 days until carbonated. Watch this step carefully. Using whey will cause it to ferment more quickly. It should be bubble and should "hiss" like a soda when the lid is removed. This is very temperature dependent and the mixture may need to be burped or stirred during this fermentation time on the counter.

Step 7

Transfer to refrigerator where it will last indefinitely.

Step 8

Strain before drinking.

Step 9

Enjoy!