Caribbean Ginger Nectar (Inspired by Babette de Rozières)
When the cold weather hits, and everyone suddenly starts coughing in stereo, this Caribbean Ginger Nectar becomes my personal shield. Spicy, warming, aromatic, and full of wellness benefits, it’s one of the simplest and most comforting homemade remedies you can keep in your kitchen.
The recipe comes from the remarkable Babette de Rozières, the French-Guadeloupean culinary icon who brought her island’s traditions to the French mainland. And since Ginger is this week’s Ingredient Spotlight, this recipe couldn’t be more perfect.
Get the complete ginger guide here →https://www.caribbeangreenliving.com/ginger-ingredient-spotlight/
Whether hot or cold, this nectar hits the spot — especially in winter when colds, flu, and respiratory infections are making their rounds. It’s powerful, but drink it in moderation… ginger has a kick, and a little goes a long way.
Why I Love This Ginger Nectar
- My absolute go-to winter beverage — warming and wonderfully soothing.
- Packed with natural benefits: vitamin C, antioxidants, digestive support, and immunity boosters.
- A delicious Caribbean home remedy when supplements alone just aren’t enough.
- Tastes incredible warm with bread and butter as a cozy late supper.
- Stores beautifully and makes a thoughtful holiday gift.
How Easy It Is to Make
No stovetop. No fuss. You grate, blend, steep, strain — and you’re done.
It’s the kind of recipe that makes you wonder why you ever bought ginger drinks at the store.
Where to Buy Fresh Ginger
Look for ginger in:
- The produce aisle of most supermarkets
- Asian, Indian, and Caribbean grocery stores (usually fresher + cheaper)
- Farmers’ market, when in season
Choose pieces that are firm, fragrant, and smooth — those are full of flavor.
Ingredient Descriptions
- Fresh Ginger: Aromatic, spicy, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory. Fresh ginger creates a smooth nectar with incredible depth. Ground ginger will not dissolve the same way, giving the drink a grainy texture — avoid it for this recipe.
- Superfine (Caster) Sugar: Balances the heat and sharpness of the ginger. Easily adjustable to your preferred sweetness.
- Boiling Water: Extracts the essential oils and medicinal qualities of the ginger.
Tips and Notes
- Enjoy hot or cold — both are wonderful.
- Drink in moderation to avoid stomach irritation.
- Add honey instead of extra sugar for a softer, floral sweetness.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for a brighter flavor.
- Make a double batch — it keeps well, and you’ll want more.
How to Store
Glass is always the winner for this recipe.
- Store the ginger nectar in glass bottles or jars with tight-fitting lids.
- Keep refrigerated.
- Best enjoyed within 5–7 days.
- Shake gently before pouring — natural settling is normal.
Other Uses for Ginger Nectar
This nectar is an incredible base for other drinks. Try mixing it with:
- Pineapple juice
- Fresh orange juice
- Guava nectar
- Mango juice
Want to spike it for the holidays? Add a splash of:
- Rhum Barbancourt
- Konparoum (Haitian rum)
- Limoncello for a Caribbean-Meets-Mediterranean twist
A little goes a long way — keep it classy, not fiery.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
An 8-oz serving is plenty — it’s a potent drink.
My absolute favorite pairing is warm ginger nectar with warm Haitian bread and butter for a simple evening supper.
Other great pairings:
- Breakfast pastries
- Cakes and small bites
- Holiday brunch spreads
- Savory snacks
And really… It’s perfect all on its own.
Conclusion
Caribbean Ginger Nectar is one of those recipes that feels like home: simple, comforting, and full of healing power. Whether you’re fighting off winter sniffles or just craving a warm island hug in a mug, this drink delivers.
It’s easy to make, easy to store, and a joy to share with friends — especially during the holidays. Brew a batch, keep it in the fridge, and let ginger help carry you through the season.
Caribbean Ginger Nectar Recipe
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup 150 g / 5 oz grated fresh ginger
- 1/3 cup 80 g superfine (caster) sugar
- 3/4 cup 200 ml / 7 fl oz water, for blending
- 4 cups 1 liter / 1 3/4 pints boiling water, for steeping
Instructions
- Add grated ginger, sugar, and 3/4 cup water to a blender.
- Purée for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
- Transfer mixture to a heatproof bowl.
- Pour 4 cups of boiling water over it.
- Cover with a clean cloth and let cool while infusing.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing to extract all the nectar.
- Refrigerate until cold.
- Adjust sweetness before serving if needed.
Notes
Tips & Notes
- Enjoy hot or cold — both are wonderful.
- Drink in moderation to avoid stomach irritation.
- Add honey instead of extra sugar for a softer, floral sweetness.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for a brighter flavor.
- Make a double batch — it keeps well and you’ll want more.
How to Store
Glass is always the winner for this recipe.- Store the ginger nectar in glass bottles or jars with tight-fitting lids.
- Keep refrigerated.
- Best enjoyed within 5–7 days.
- Shake gently before pouring — natural settling is normal.
Nutrition
Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.
Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.
