Healthy Alternatives To Beer: Refreshing Drink Options

If you're looking for a drink to replace beer, there are several alternatives to choose from. Non-alcoholic beer is an option, with many major brands now offering their own versions. You could also try kombucha, a fermented tea drink that's said to have health benefits. If you're after something lighter, sparkling water with a slice of fruit or a cup of tea are both refreshing choices. For something a little different, malt beverages are made with some of the same ingredients as beer and have a similar appearance, or you could try an alcohol-free spirit.

Non-alcoholic beer

While non-alcoholic beers typically have a lower sugar and carbohydrate content than their alcoholic counterparts, it's important to note that they may have a distinctive "no alcohol" aftertaste. However, with the increasing demand for healthier alternatives, the non-alcoholic beer market has evolved, and some brands now offer options that closely resemble the taste and mouthfeel of regular beer.

In addition to non-alcoholic beer, there are several other alternatives to beer with alcohol. These include kombucha, a fermented tea drink with potential health benefits, and malt, a lightly carbonated beverage brewed from barley, hops, and water. For those seeking relaxation without alcohol, options like herbal tea, infused water, and fruit juices are excellent choices.

Kombucha

However, it is important to note that kombucha does contain a small amount of alcohol, usually less than 0.5% for commercial varieties, but potentially up to 3% or more for homemade brews. This means that kombucha is not a suitable alternative for those who need to avoid alcohol completely for medical reasons. Additionally, some commercially bottled kombuchas can be high in added sugar, so it is important to read the labels carefully.

Ginger beer or ale

Ginger beer and ginger ale are two low-calorie alternatives to beer. They are both carbonated drinks with a gingery kick, but there are some differences between the two.

Ginger beer was originally an alcoholic drink made by fermenting ginger, sugar, water, and sometimes lemon. It originated in England and is likely much older than the 18th century, when it was widely consumed. Today, most commercial ginger beers are non-alcoholic or contain a trace amount of alcohol (less than 0.5% ABV). They are often clear or cloudy, darker in colour than ginger ale, and less carbonated. Ginger beer has a bold, spicy flavour that stands out in cocktails like the Moscow Mule or Dark 'n' Stormy.

Ginger ale, on the other hand, is not an ale in the traditional sense. It is a non-alcoholic, sweetened, ginger-flavoured soft drink. It is less spicy and has a lighter, more delicate flavour than ginger beer. It is also more carbonated. Ginger ale is typically made by adding a ginger-flavoured simple syrup to carbonated water. It is often used to combat stomach upsets and is a popular drink on airplanes.

Both drinks can be used interchangeably in cocktails, but the stronger flavour of ginger beer may dominate the drink. Ginger ale, being sweeter and less spicy, allows the spirit to shine through.

Mocktails

Tropical Punch Mocktail

This refreshing mocktail combines passion fruit, mint, lemongrass, and orange, with delicate bubbles of sparkling water. It's the perfect drink for a summer party or get-together.

Watermelon 'Nojito'

A fun take on the classic mojito, this mocktail features watermelon and fresh mint for a summery flavor. It's a great choice for those who want a drink that's both refreshing and flavorful.

Pineapple, Apricot, and Lime Punch

This punch is a perfect pick-me-up when you're feeling under the weather. It's also a great base for cocktails; just add vodka or white rum if you're feeling festive!

Pink Grapefruit Fizz

A bubbly and tangy mocktail, the pink grapefruit fizz, is a great alternative to traditional soft drinks. It can be made even more flavorful by adding lemon sorbet and mango nectar.

Frozen Apple Margarita

To make this frozen drink non-alcoholic, simply swap out the tequila for an extra cup of sparkling apple juice. It's a fun and festive drink that's perfect for summer.

Spicy Lemon-Ginger Tonic

This mocktail combines the classic trio of lemon juice, ginger, and honey to create a flavor-packed concentrate that can be served hot or cold. It's a great option for those who like their drinks with a bit of a kick.

Honey-Berry-Kombucha Spritzer

This spritzer is a fruity yet not too sugary mocktail. It combines blackberries, mint leaves, honey, kombucha, and a dash of salt to bring out the flavors.

Salty Grapefruit Refresher

A unique combination of preserved lemon puree and grapefruit juice creates a tangy and bitter mocktail. It's the perfect drink to enjoy on a hot summer day.

Chile-Cucumber Agua Fresca

If you're a fan of mojitos, this mocktail is for you. It features a ginger and habanero chile-infused syrup, adding a spicy kick to the refreshing cucumber flavor.

Peach and Mango Spritzer

A delightful combination of peach and mango, this mocktail is a fruity and flavorful drink. It's a great choice for those who want something sweet and tangy.

These mocktail recipes offer a fun and flavorful way to enjoy drinks without the alcohol. Whether you're looking for a refreshing summer drink or a cozy winter warmer, these mocktails are sure to impress and satisfy!

Sparkling water with flavourings

If you're looking for a drink that resembles beer, sparkling water with flavourings is a great alternative. It's a simple yet effective option, and you can get creative with the flavourings.

For a refreshing and natural drink, add some fruit flavours to your sparkling water. A slice of grapefruit or lemon will add a tangy twist, while those with a sweet tooth might prefer a combination of strawberry, lemon and mint. You could also try cucumber, lemon and celery for a fresh, healthy kick.

If you're looking for something with a little more bite, add some bitters to your sparkling water. This will give your drink depth and complexity, without the alcohol content.

For a more botanical beverage, add herbs to your sparkling water. Mint, rosemary or thyme will give your drink a savoury edge, while still remaining refreshing.

Frequently asked questions