Have you heard of switchel? A lot of people haven't so don't feel bad if you don't know what the hell I am talking about (like my computer. It keeps auto correcting switchel to switched). So switchel. It's basically a drink made from water and apple cider vinegar. But wait, don't grimace and click away, it's also has fresh ginger, lime, and maple syrup mixed in and is really really really freaking refreshing and tasty and just really good. I guess it was even used back I the day as a sort of sports drink, like Gatorade because it has all sorts of electrolytes and anti-inflammatory properties from the ginger. Plus apple cider vinegar has got all sorted or health benefits, so it's a tasty treat with benefits. Who doesn't love the benefits?
You can drink the switchel straight up hot or cold, add it to seltzer for a bubbly soda like drink or even mix some cocktails with it. I enjoy a nice cold glass when I am feeling thirsty but what I usually do it fill up half a jar with boiling water, then fill the rest of the jar up with the cold switchel. It's a nice tangy, spicy, refreshing and warming drink that I look forward to every day. I even got the littles to try it. One thought it to be nasty (can't win them all), but the other one really liked it too, so you know it's not just me that thinks it good.
The stuff. Apple cider vinegar (the good stuff that is raw and has the mother), fresh ginger, limes, maple syrup, and water.
Fresh ginger is the best. Give it a little peel with a spoon, just to maximize gingerness exposure then chop into small pieces.
Ginger and water goes into big pot. Bring it to a boil then turn down to a high simmer for 10-15 minutes to really get the ginger infused into that water.
After it's cooled a bit, strain the now ginger water into a pitcher or a big jar.
Add in the vinegar, the juice of the limes and a bit maple syrup. Start off with a little maple, you can alway add more later if needed.
After the switchel has some time in the fridge to cool (at least 2 hours, but I like it best when it's sat overnight) grab a glass ,some ice cubes, and a slice of lime. It's go time.
A drink to you my friends
-C
Ginger Lime Switchel
Makes bout 6 cups
- 1/2 cup raw apple cider vinegar (with the mother. Braggs is a popular option)
- 5-6 inch piece of fresh ginger
- 2 limes
- 5 1/2 cups water
- 1-4 tablespoons maple syrup
With a spoon, gently peel ginger . Not perfectly, just get some of the skin off. Chop it into small pieces and place it into a large pot with the water. Bring to a boil then let simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain ginger water int a large pitcher or jar.
Add in the apple cider vieager, the juice of the limes, and a tablespoon or two of maple syrup. Give it a good stir then place in the fridge until cold (about two hours but overnight is best)
When it's cold, give it a good stir again, taste, and if it needs more maple, add it in. And then it's ready.
You can drink it on ice, maybe add some seltzer to it, or mix it into some fancy cocktail. It can also be reheated for a nice spicy warming treat.