The Root Beer Experience: What Does Root Beer Taste Like?

Root beer is coming back better than ever.

It’s a popular North American soft drink that has generated interest globally in recent years.

In fact, it has become a trend among the younger population.

Have you tasted one yet? If not, read this post before you give it a shot.

That way, you’ll get a hint of what this beer tastes like.

It’s known for its overwhelming and distinct flavor, so it might not be your favorite at the initial stage.

Continue reading as we answer the question- what does root beer taste like and reveal other crucial aspects.

What is Root Beer?

Root beer has a long history and has been in existence since the 1840s.

In fact, it was sold in confectionary stores as syrup.

However, it has changed over the years and turned into a ready-made beverage.

Some of the major producers of root beer are Keurig Dr.

Pepper, A&W, PepsiCo, Dad’s, and Coca-Cola Company.

The traditional way of preparing root beer is through the fermentation process.

This beer’s typical ingredients are Sassafras’ root bark, wintergreen leaf, ginger root, and licorice roots.

Usage of sassafras is prohibited by the USFDA (United States Food And Drug Administration) as it contains safrole, which is known to have carcinogen elements.

It’s known for causing cancer and other health issues.

Because of this, the manufacturers use artificial flavoring that imitates the sassafras taste, while some company uses safrole-free extract.

Most commercial root beers found today are made of artificial sassafras with the addition of soda and caffeine.

In some of this beer, there is a small percentage of alcohol as well.

What Does Root Beer Taste Like?

Unlike regular beer, root beer has a sweet taste.

The taste may also vary depending on the brand.

Some brands’ root beer has a minty flavor, while some taste like herbal cola.

Regardless, expect the taste to be either spicy or sweet.

A typical root beer is a mix of sweet and bitter tastes.

The inclusion of the main ingredient like sarsaparilla root and sassafras gives this beer a distinct taste.

Some companies also add vanilla extracts and spices to their root beer.

For instance, A&W’s root beer has a hint of vanilla and creamy flavor.

In comparison, Sioux City is made of pure cane sugar and is very fizzy.

Based on the brand, expect variations in taste, flavor, and texture.

When it comes to nutritional value, the caloric value may differ based on the variants.

It would be better to check the nutrition facts on the bottles to know the value as it’s likely to vary as per the ingredients in it.

Notably, it provides multiple health benefits because of its medicinal properties.

For instance, sarsaparilla root is well-known for protection against the liver because of the presence of flavonoids in it.

Additionally, it improves your immune system.

Drink sporadically, as the excess of this beer may negatively impact your health.

Nonetheless, it’s a refreshing drink catering to both adults and kids.

How to Drink and Serve Root Beer?

Root beer tastes good by itself, but you may also improvise it by making cocktails or cooking.

Not many are unaware of how this beer type makes an excellent enhancer in various recipes.

The complex flavor of this beer makes a dish tastier and more relishing.

You may also use it in baking cakes, fried chicken, caramel, stir-fried veggies, baked beans, and ice cream.

Here is a simple stir-fried veggie recipe that you can try yourself with root beer:

• First, stir fry the vegetable for five minutes, and then let it rest. .
• Take a small-sized saucepan to make a root beer sauce. Add honey, soy sauce, garlic, and root beer.
• Boil this mixture at medium to high heat until the sauce thickens. Once it’s thick enough, add the pre-cooked veggies and let it cook in the root beer sauce for ten minutes. .

Avoid using ice-cold root beer for cooking, as it may affect the taste of your dish.

If it’s cold, let it bring to room temperature and then proceed with the cooking.

Conclusion

Now that you know what root beer tastes like, now would be a good time to give it a shot.

Go to your nearest local stores to buy this beverage to experience its taste firsthand.

It’s a non-alcoholic beverage that is not only refreshing but healthy too.

However, be wary of the alcohol content as some manufacturers add a small percentage of it.

If you have attained the legal age to drink alcohol, you may get the alcohol one.

There are variants of root beer with differences in flavor and texture.

Because of its distinct taste profile, not everyone may like it.

Regardless, it’s worth giving a shot if you haven’t tried it yet.