Jus de Gingembre
Jus de Gingembre (zhoo duh zhan-ZHOM-bruh)
Chadian Ginger Juice
A refreshing, spicy-sweet beverage made from fresh ginger root, sugar, and lemon, served ice-cold. This popular Chadian drink delivers a fiery kick balanced by sweetness, perfect for cooling down in the Sahelian heat.
Nutrition & Info
Equipment Needed
Instructions
-
1
Peel and roughly chop the fresh ginger root. Place in a blender with two cups of water and blend until very smooth.
-
2
Strain the ginger puree through a fine strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher, pressing firmly to extract maximum juice.
-
3
Add remaining water, sugar, and lemon juice to the pitcher. Stir vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
-
4
Taste and adjust sweetness and ginger intensity. The drink should have a pronounced ginger heat balanced by sweetness.
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5
Refrigerate for at least one hour to let flavors meld and the drink becomes thoroughly chilled.
-
6
Serve over ice cubes in tall glasses, garnished with fresh mint leaves. The drink improves in flavor overnight.
Did You Know?
Ginger juice vendors are found at every major intersection in N'Djamena, selling the drink in small plastic bags with a straw poked through the top, a quintessential Chadian scene.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- blender
- fine strainer or cheesecloth
- pitcher
- grater
The Story Behind Jus de Gingembre
Jus de gingembre is the unofficial national beverage of Chad, consumed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Ginger has been cultivated in Central Africa for centuries and is valued both as a flavoring and for its perceived health benefits. The drink became commercialized in urban areas where vendors prepare large batches daily, but every Chadian household also has their own recipe, often guarded as a family secret.
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