Switchel has humble origins dating back to the 17th century. It was cherished by farmers and laborers for its ability to quench thirst, provide energy, and replenish electrolytes during long days of hard work in the fields. The basic recipe for switchel typically includes water, vinegar, sweetener, and ginger. Resulting in a tangy, slightly sweet beverage with a refreshing kick from the ginger.
Switchel's ingredients offer a range of health benefits, making it a superior alternative to sugary sodas and artificially flavored drinks. Water forms the base of switchel, to help hydrate the body. Apple cider vinegar is rich in electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. Ginger, a key ingredient in switchel, has long been celebrated for its digestive properties. It can help alleviate nausea, aid in digestion, and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Making switchel at home is incredibly simple and allows for customization to suit individual tastes. Here's my basic recipe to get you started.
Ginger Turmeric Switchel
Ingredients
- 2 thumbs of ginger
- 1 thumb of turmeric
- 8-10 cups of water
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Begin by adding 8 cups of filtered water to a pot on the stove, then set the heat to high.
- Roughly chop your ginger and turmeric, then toss them into the pot with the water.
- Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- After simmering, turn off the heat and let the liquid cool slightly, ensuring it remains warm enough to melt the honey.
- Set up a strainer over a pitcher and carefully pour the switchel base through it, separating out the ginger and turmeric pieces.
- Add the desired amount of honey to the warm switchel base, stirring until it dissolves completely.
- Freshly squeeze a lemon and pour the juice into the pitcher. A cup of lemon juice is recommended, but feel free to adjust to your taste preferences.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar until it's well incorporated into the mixture.
- Depending on your desired potency, you may want to dilute the switchel with another cup or two of water. This step is optional if you prefer a more concentrated flavor.
- Transfer the pitcher to the refrigerator and allow the switchel to chill. It's best consumed within 7 days to maintain freshness.
These steps should get you a great base to create a delicious and refreshing batch of switchel to enjoy whenever you need a hydrating boost!