Homemade Ginger Ale

So, I've decided to start making my own soda... I don't like the fact that most companies put caffeine in their soda, and other ingredients that are not needed. I like this all natural soda, and it has a great taste.

Ginger Simple Syrup

1/2 cup peeled, organic ginger root
2 cups raw sugar
1 cup water
1 lemon
cans of sparkling water (which is the same thing as club soda)

In a saucepan add sugar and water. Bring to a light boil over medium heat.

While the syrup is coming to a boil, peel the ginger and wash your lemon.

Once the syrup comes to a boil turn down the heat to medium-low, and let simmer while you finish peeling and ginger.

Cut the lemon in half and juice it; Set aside.

Add the peeled ginger to the syrup and simmer for 9 minutes.

Cut the juiced lemon into quarters, removing the end pieces.

Add the lemon quarters to the syrup and cook for 1 minute.

Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice.

Strain the syrup through a sieve into a bowl. Cool to room temperature, and store in a jar, or air tight container in the refrigerator.

To make a soda:

3 - 6 tablespoons ginger syrup to taste
1 can sparkling water
Ice if desired

Pour the syrup into a 16 oz glass / tall glass, add ice if desired, and pour over the sparkling water and stir until well combined. You've just made homemade ginger ale with no added dyes, or preservatives! Enjoy!