Step 1

Add ginger and water to a small saucepan over medium heat and allow to simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and allow to steep an additional 15 minutes. Pour through a fine mesh sieve to remove the ginger from the syrup into a large bowl and then pour back into the small saucepan. Discard the pieces of ginger or save for another purpose.

Step 2

Add the sweetener to the saucepan and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Allow to cool completely. At this stage, the ginger syrup may be placed into a Mason jar, sealed, and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Step 3

Pour ginger syrup into a 2-quart glass pitcher, stir in fresh lemon or lime juice and club soda or seltzer water. Serve over ice.